There’s more than one way start a business. Many immigrants find their path to entrepreneurship and success in the U.S. through a franchise. The word conjures images of MacDonald’s and Jiffy Lube, but there are a wide variety of franchised businesses in the U.S. in a host of industries.
According to the International Franchise Association (IFA), there are more than 85 different categories, including fast food, advertising, construction, dating services, lawn care, real estate, hotels and copy services. In a franchise, a company typically distributes its products or services through a retail outlet or office owned by independent, third-party operators known as franchisees.
Franchising is Booming.
According to the ADP National Franchise Report, in the first five months of 2017 the franchise industry added more than 70,300 jobs. As economic optimism continues to rise and the franchise industry outpaces non-franchise business for the seventh consecutive year, prospective business owners from the United States and around the globe are gearing up for the industry’s biggest event.
400 Top Franchise Brands
The 26th annual International Franchise Expo (IFE), held June 15-17 at the Javits Center in New York City, gives entrepreneurs the chance to meet face-to-face with representatives of more than 400 top franchise brands. This year’s event will offer a look into the hottest trends in the franchise industry as attendees explore the vast emerging, international and mature franchise opportunities ranging from as little as $10,000 up to $1 million. Attendees can also take advantage of more than 85 educational programs and 10 in-depth workshops in addition to one-on-one consulting, exclusive financial discounts, and notable small business speakers.
“There is a world of opportunity out there, and we invite everyone to utilize the resources available at the expo and learn how to achieve financial freedom while changing their lives.”
Tom Portsey, president & CEO of MFV Expositions
“This is the place to be for anyone who has ever dreamed about going into business for themselves, just not by themselves. The IFE strives to provide a no-pressure, educational atmosphere for anyone curious about if franchising is right for them,” said Tom Portesy, president and CEO of MFV Expositions. “There is a world of opportunity out there, and we invite everyone to utilize the resources available at the expo and learn how to achieve financial freedom while changing their lives.”
Education & Mentorship
Throughout the three days, expo-goers are encouraged to take advantage of events designed to educate and energize their entrepreneurial spirit. In addition to the franchise opportunities, there are:
- 85 educational programs, including 10 in-depth workshops on a variety of topics ranging from “The A to Z’s of Buying a Franchise” to “Franchising Your Business.”
- SCORE, Counselors to America’s Small Business
- New York Women in Business will be conducting seminars on small business topics.
- Answer Center with experienced mentors, will provide free expert advice, one-on-one coaching, and start-up support
“The IFE strives to provide a no-pressure, educational atmosphere for anyone curious about if franchising is right for them”
Commitment to Female Entrepreneurship
Emphasizing its commitment to supporting female entrepreneurship, the IFE will welcome two “CBS Undercover Boss” stars to speak on the topic of Women in Franchising.
- Shelly Sun, Chairperson of the IFA Board of Directors and CEO/Co-Founder of BrightStarCare
- Catherine Monson, CEO of FASTSIGNS International, will be among the women speaking, providing attendees the opportunity to learn firsthand from industry leaders what it takes to get into a business of your own.
Make sure you read Immigrant Business’s Guide to Franchising “Find YOUR Best Franchise“
