Tootl was founded in 2021 by Michelle and Tom Dacy, entrepreneurs with an extensive history working in the NEMT space. Michelle brings 22 years of experience to the business coordinating transportation for people with mobility and cognitive challenges. After working in the industry for 10 years, Michelle started her own wheelchair-accessible transportation company in 2012, focusing on quality with high service standards. The company grew each year in revenues, assisting clients across the entire Chicagoland area.

While the demand for services such as Tootl is high, the brand has no direct competitors at the national level. With strong growth potential and low-overhead, the innovative concept soon caught the attention of experienced franchising industry veterans Steve Greenbaum and Brad Fishman, who have joined the team as investors and advisors.

“We saw Tootl as a low investment, low risk, high gross profit margin opportunity for people looking to own their own business,” said Greenbaum. “There is no associated real estate or leases, equipment (drivers and vehicles are outsourced), or utilities costs that come with having a storefront model. At the same time, there will always be a demand because Tootl caters to a diverse underserved consumer base that will always exist. Another interesting fact is that you don’t have to have special needs or be in a wheelchair to use Tootl. Tootl provides safe, reliable door-through-door transportation for people of all ages and abilities.”

Greenbaum, a partner, Board Member and Advisor of Tootl, has nearly 30 years in franchising as a founder and CEO. Fishman is co-CEO of the 30-year-old iconic franchising PR agency Fishman Public Relations, CEO of Franchise Elevator, a PR firm that serves emerging brands, and sits on the board of directors of several franchise organizations.

With backing from strong investors and advisors and a high demand in the market, Michelle and Tom decided it was time to provide their important services to more communities. In addition to operating in Chicago for over 11 years, Tootl opened a second corporate-owned location in Milwaukee that has been operating successfully since March, 2021. In July of 2023, Tootl announced that it will be offering franchise opportunities in select markets around the country.