Foundation Seeks Young Entrepreneurs for NextGen in Franchising Global Competition

- Through Sept. 30, business owners worldwide can apply for chance to participate in business accelerator program and learn from franchising industry leaders -

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International Franchise Association

Aug 01, 2016, 09:17 ET

WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Franchise Association (IFA) Franchise Education & Research Foundation announced today it is accepting applications for its annual NextGen in Franchising Global Competition, a worldwide program that engages young entrepreneurs seeking careers and business opportunities in the franchising industry. Applications are open from Aug. 1 – Sept. 30, 2016.

"We are looking for 20 outstanding young entrepreneurs who are poised to take off if given the mentoring and support from franchise business leaders," said David McKinnon, CFE, Foundation vice chair and chair of the NextGen in Franchising Committee. "NextGen is engaging and educating the next generation of young entrepreneurs with a passion for franchising. There is no greater evidence of the success and appeal of the franchise business model than to see young people from around the world embracing it with the excitement, enthusiasm and professionalism of our NextGen winners. Being in a room with them is contagious!"

The NextGen in Franchising Global Competition is open to entrepreneurs ages 21-35 with businesses that have been operating for 1-5 years. Winners receive a trip to the IFA's Annual Convention in Las Vegas from Jan. 28 – Feb. 1, 2017; a spot at the NextGen in Franchising Summit, a two-day educational and networking program for next generation entrepreneurs; a 90-day accelerator program with industry leaders and CEOs; an opportunity to participate in the FRANSHARK competition for additional cash prizes; and opportunities to network with leading franchisors, franchisees and suppliers and with other young entrepreneurs.

"The NextGen in Franchising program was an immensely valuable asset that fueled my company's growth and I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in such an important initiative," said Jennifer Beall, CEO and Founder of Tot Squad and a NextGen in Franchising winner. "Through NextGen, I was introduced to one of my company's major investors and active advisors, and his involvement immediately lent credibility to my business and propelled our success. Franchising is an excellent way to scale your company without having to overspend, and NextGen is the perfect introduction into this thriving industry."

"We are truly grateful for the opportunity and experience of being a part of NextGen. The connections made and lessons learned from CEOs and top executives who have walked the walk is something that will assist in propelling our business," said Jai Hobbs, CEO, Paleo Café, a NextGen in Franchising winner.

The NextGen in Franchising program is made possible due to the generosity of its donors and sponsors, which include David McKinnon, the founding sponsor; the Stewart & Jane Bainum Fund; Lawrence "Doc" Cohen, Doc & Associates; Stephen P. Joyce Fund; Choice Hotels Foundation; J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation; Tariq Farid, Edible Arrangements; Charlie Chase, FirstService Brands; Amit Kleinberger, Menchie's Frozen Yogurt; Aziz Hashim, NRD Holdings; Joe Bourdow, Valpak; Melanie Bergeron, Two Men & A Truck Intl.; Amit Pamecha, FranConnect; and the DeLuca Family Foundation.

"We are excited and deeply grateful for the widespread support and donations from major companies, foundations and individuals for the foundation's NextGen in Franchising program", said John Reynolds, CFE, Foundation president. "Their support and dollars are an investment in the future of the franchising industry."

To apply for the NextGen in Franchising Global Competition, visit NextGenFranchising.org. For more information, please contact Elayne Jacobs at [email protected] or call (202) 588-8138.

About the IFA Franchise Education & Research Foundation
Founded in 1983, the International Franchise Association (IFA) Franchise Education & Research Foundation is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and supported through the generous contributions of IFA members and others. The Foundation's mission is to advance franchising and the free enterprise system by increasing the knowledge and professional standards of all members of the franchising community; educating the next generation of franchise practitioners; increasing recognition of franchising's key role in the free enterprise system; and providing comprehensive information and research about important developments and trends in franchising.

About the International Franchise Association
Celebrating 55 years of excellence, education and advocacy, the International Franchise Association is the world's oldest and largest organization representing franchising worldwide. IFA works through its government relations and public policy, media relations and educational programs to protect, enhance and promote franchising.

Contact:
Samantha Russo
Fish Consulting
[email protected]
954-893-9150

Gionne Jones
IFA Franchise Education & Research Foundation
[email protected]
202-662-0772

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SOURCE International Franchise Association