PJ's Coffee of New Orleans, a fast-growing franchise (ranked #103 on the 2025 Franchise 500) with more than 190 locations, has made it a tradition to waive its $40,000 franchise license fee for one veteran through its Veteran Franchise License Giveaway. "We realized early on that veterans have what franchising needs," says David Mesa, PJ's Coffee's President and an eight-year U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Southern roots, local missionFounded in 1978, PJ's Coffee is known for its small-batch roasting, Southern hospitality and community-first franchise model. Veteran License GiveawayThe Veteran Franchise License Giveaway isn't a sweepstakes; it's a hands-on, multi-step process that mirrors the early stages of franchise ownership. Applications for the 2025 Veteran Franchise License Giveaway giveaway open on July 4th, a symbolic date that underscores the brand's mission: creating opportunities for those who served their country.