The parent company of Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins said Tuesday that it is looking for franchisees to open restaurants in Iowa.

“Dunkin’ Donuts is looking for qualified candidates with food service, operations and real estate experience to join our team to help expand the brand’s footprint in Des Moines and the surrounding areas,” said Grant Benson, vice president of franchising and market planning with Dunkin’ Brands Inc.

Canton, Mass.-based Dunkin’ Brands, which last year netted 574 new locations worldwide and 226 new franchise commitments in the United States, said it would offer special development incentives to franchises that bring the Dunkin’ Donuts brand to Des Moines, Cedar Rapids or Sioux City.

Ideal franchisees would have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and liquid assets of at least $250,000, the company said in a release. In addition to reporting global sales of $6 billion for 2010, the doughnut and coffee chain also signed multi-unit development agreements in 29 markets last year.

“In an effort to keep the brand fresh and competitive, Dunkin’ Donuts offers franchisees flexible design concepts including free-standing stores, end caps, in-line sites, kiosks and gas stations, as well as other retail environments,” the company said in a press release.

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts has more than 9,700 restaurants in 31 countries. In recent years, the chain started offering a wider selection of food items, most notably the addition of espresso-based beverages in 2003.

For more information, visit www.Dunkinfranchising.com.