Cole started the first outlet of Powerhouse, a youth athletic training facility in Chicago. The business expanded over time, and he became the owner of a chain of facilities in Illinois. Though the business had potential to expand outside Illinois, Cole did not want to take the risk or responsibility. Hence, he decided to sell the license to own and operate facilities under the brand name Powerhouse to independent owners. In return, he charged them an initial fee and a small share in the monthly profits. In this scenario, Cole is a(n)