Phuntsok (Phil )Dhargyal and his partner Tenzin Jigme started PUROCLEAN Franchise business in 2018 in Alexandria, Virginia; and expanded with 2 more locations currently. And a plan to add one more and grow the business.
PuroClean is a property damage restoration franchise specializing in emergency water, fire, mold, and biohazard cleanup for residential and commercial properties, per website of the PUROCLEAN founded in 2001 with over 500 locations across North America.
After escaping Tibet and immigrating to the United States in 2006, Dhargyal completed his school and college education there. He worked various jobs, including as a waiter and cashier, before joining the restoration industry. Over more than eight years, he gained valuable experience and eventually became a Project Manager. Drawing on his technical and operational expertise, he decided to start his own restoration business.
“My mom encouraged me when I pitched this idea to her. To fund the business, Me and Jigmey’s family and relatives provided interest-free loans, giving me the support and capital needed to get the business started,” said Dhargyal in the Aha Moment Podcast.
They started the PURECLEAN franchise with an initial investment of $200,000. His father, an Uber driver with experience in the restoration industry, became their first employee. He managed marketing, while Jigme oversaw production.
“The first year was challenging, with many sleepless nights and few clients. But eventually, the business took off,” said Dhargyal. Although he had industry experience, he had no prior experience running a business.
His advice to young people is: “Everyone has potential. Every business involves risk. You need a never-give-up attitude, hard work, and persistence to succeed.”
Below is Phil Dhargyal sharing his Entrepreneurial Journey.