Have you ever thought about owning a business but weren’t sure where to begin? The 2026 IFA World Franchise Show could be the place to start exploring the possibilities.
Coming to the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, September 25–26, 2026, the free two-day event will bring the world of franchising together under one roof. Presented through a partnership between the International Franchise Association (IFA) and Business Show Media, the event is designed to connect franchise brands with prospective business owners while giving attendees an opportunity to learn more about franchise ownership.
More Than a Business Expo
What makes the IFA World Franchise Show particularly valuable is the opportunity to move beyond researching business opportunities online and have conversations face-to-face. Attendees can explore franchise concepts, meet people within the industry and learn what it actually takes to become a franchise owner.
Last year’s inaugural show attracted thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibiting brands, according to IFA. Educational programming was integrated directly into the show floor, where experienced franchise operators, executives and industry experts shared practical insights with prospective entrepreneurs.
For someone who has been thinking, I’d like to work for myself, but I don’t necessarily want to build a company from scratch, franchising can offer an interesting middle ground. A franchise allows an entrepreneur to operate a business while working within an established brand and business system.
An Opportunity for Veterans and Military Families
The show may be especially relevant for veterans, transitioning service members and military spouses considering entrepreneurship as their next career move.
IFA’s VetFran program highlights the connection between skills developed through military life—including leadership, resilience and teamwork—and franchise business ownership. At the World Franchise Show, military-connected attendees will have an opportunity to explore franchise opportunities and learn about the training, resources, mentorship and support available within the franchise community.
That can make franchising an appealing option for veterans who want greater independence in their civilian careers while still having an established structure and team behind them.
Learn Before You Invest
Buying a franchise is a significant financial and professional decision, and attending an event like this shouldn’t simply be about finding a recognizable brand. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions.
What is the initial investment? What ongoing fees should you expect? What training does the franchisor provide? How much working capital might you need? What does a typical day look like for a franchisee? And perhaps most importantly: Is this business actually a good fit for your experience, finances, goals and lifestyle?
Being able to compare different opportunities and speak directly with people in the franchise industry can help prospective owners become better-informed before deciding whether to take the next step.
Could Your Next Career Be Business Ownership?
You don’t have to arrive in Fort Lauderdale knowing that you want to buy a franchise. You may simply be curious about entrepreneurship, searching for a new career direction or wondering whether business ownership could be part of your future.
That’s part of the value of attending.
The IFA World Franchise Show takes place September 25–26, 2026, at the Broward County Convention Center, 1950 Eisenhower Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
For veterans in particular, the event offers another way to think about life after military service—not simply as finding the next job, but potentially creating a new career as a business owner.
Learn more about the 2026 IFA World Franchise Show
Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.
