Shipley Donuts Inks First-Ever Nonprofit Franchise Agreement in Texas

Nonprofit franchise agreement

The deal with SouthFair Community Development Corporation, a South Dallas-based nonprofit, will operate under the name Community Donut Corporation, led by Dallas nonprofit industry veteran and SouthFair Chief Executive Director Annie Evans.

Under this agreement, SouthFair will serve as landlord, tenant and franchisee, which is an unprecedented triple role within the franchise’s history. The group plans to open the shop by the end of 2026 at 2807 Al Lipscomb Way in Dallas as part of the ground-up, newly constructed Malcolm’s Point Retail Project.

Founded in Texas in 1936, Shipley Donuts is known for its signature hot glazed donuts, fresh, handmade kolaches – a Texas-favorite, Czech-style pastry filled with meat or fruit – and dozens of donut varieties, including filled, iced and cake donuts.

Community growth impact

The agreement marks a new approach to community-focused business growth, with a portion of franchise revenue helping support neighborhood programs and local economic initiatives in South Dallas. By embedding a recognized brand within a nonprofit ownership structure, the partnership creates a replicable blueprint for community-driven franchise growth that puts people, not just profit, at the center of expansion.

“At Shipley, we believe that great donuts have the power to bring people together,” said Flynn Dekker, CEO of Shipley Donuts. “This partnership with SouthFair reflects and expands upon our nearly 90-year-old legacy of investing in people and communities. We’re proud to be part of the growth happening in South Dallas’ Malcolm’s Point area and to support efforts that create lasting local opportunity.”

Led by Evans for more than 15 years, SouthFair CDC has helped drive South Dallas revitalization for more than three decades. Through its Community Donut Corporation model, franchise revenue will directly support that mission, turning every donut sold into an investment in the neighborhood. The shop is expected to generate sustainable local jobs, support area suppliers and build long-term community wealth.

“Partnering with a legacy brand like Shipley is all about creating opportunity for our community,” said Evans. “This franchise agreement gives our community a seat at the table and a chance to reinvest in its own future. We’re building a foundation for long-term economic opportunity that we hope will benefit Dallas residents for generations to come.”

Shipley Donuts franchise opportunities are available throughout the South, Southeast and Midwest for operators seeking to join America’s fastest-growing donut and kolache brand. Additional information is available at ownashipleydonuts.com.

Founded in 1936, Houston-based Shipley Donuts is the nation's largest brand of fresh, handmade-daily donuts and kolaches, with more than 390 franchised and company-owned restaurants across 13 states, serving up its famous donuts, coffee and kolaches to generations of guests. Shipley is ranked No. 134 on Entrepreneur magazine's Franchise 500® 2026 list and No.

For career changers and multi-unit owners, Shipley Donuts is the one donut franchise investment that's poised for fantastic growth. High-quality product and simple-to-run business model that drives a strong AUV.