Final answer:
A franchise offers a proven line of business with reduced risk, which is best described as Risk mitigation.
Step-by-step explanation:
A franchise offers a business model that includes not only a proven line of business but also typically integrates techniques for reducing risk. This is mainly because the franchise provides a well-established brand, a customer base, and operating procedures, which diminishes the uncertainties often associated with starting a new business from scratch. Among the options provided, the best fit for what a franchise offers in terms of reduced risk is: D) Risk mitigation. This term reflects the franchise's ability to minimize the potential for loss, making it a safer investment for prospective franchisees.