Abstract
<jats:p>The relevance of diversification has increased in the agricultural sector due to the imposed restrictions on imports and the increased activity of agricultural organizations. Problem. The business environment of regions with a developed agricultural sector is characterized by the presence of factors that stimulate diversification, on the one hand, and the requirements of food security and socio-economic threats, on the other. The purpose of this study is to identify the prospects for agribusiness in local markets to use non-core diversification through franchising. The methodological framework of the study. The article provides a review and analysis of small business franchise practices in the agricultural sector of the region. The methods used include scientific abstraction, historical analysis, logical reasoning, data from open sources on diversification and digitalization in the agricultural sector. Results. The article analyzes franchise practices for agricultural diversification in Russia and identifies the potential of digital platforms. Conclusions. Franchise practices are promising for non-traditional diversification in small and medium-sized agricultural businesses. The solutions include cluster-type business models and extensive digitalization.</jats:p>