Shipley Donuts has signed a one-unit franchise agreement in South Dallas, marking the first nonprofit franchise agreement in Shipley Donuts' history.
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. The group plans to open the shop by the end of 2026 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, it’s a Czech-inspired pastry filled with meat or fruit.
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 at the center of expansion.
"At Shipley, we believe that great donuts have the power to bring people together," says 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."
Brand snapshot: Shipley Donuts
Menu type: Bakery
Headquarters: Houston
Founded: 1936
Recent news: 2021 Peak Rock Capital acquired Shipley Do-Nuts
