Allison Randal has always believed in the power of economic opportunity. With a background in tech and publishing, she understood the uncertainty of those industries and wanted to build something more stable, something that could create pathways for others. When she discovered the chance to open PVolve franchises, it wasn’t just about fitness; it was about building businesses that empower people and foster financial mobility.
After sustaining an injury years ago, health and fitness became essential for Allison. PVolve’s focus on functional movement and core strength wasn’t just another workout; it was a solution that worked for her body and lifestyle. Initially, she planned to fund one franchise herself, but when the chance came to open two, one in Chicago and the other in Philadelphia, she couldn’t pass it up.
Financing, however, was a challenge. When her business partner couldn’t secure a loan on her own, the path forward seemed uncertain. That’s when PVolve introduced her to First Women’s Bank, a lender with a history of lending to PVolve franchisees.
The team at First Women’s Bank didn’t just provide the loans – they understood Allison’s vision. They structured financing for both locations and helped her balance debt and equity across two businesses. This support allowed Allison to move from self-funding to leveraging loans, with a long-term goal of transitioning to employee ownership within 5–10 years.
“The First Women’s Bank mission is the only reason I got the loan,” Allison says. “Other banks looked at our finances and said no. First Women’s Bank saw the bigger picture.”
