Franchise growth doesn’t happen by luck. It happens when business owners stay informed, make the right connections, and use helpful insights. That’s why franchise conferences are so valuable.

Whether you are attending for the first time or you’ve been before, going to a franchise convention is a smart way to discover new opportunities and start building partnerships. We learned a lot from the events we attended in 2024.

The 2025 calendar is full of events designed to help franchise owners grow faster and make better decisions. Below is a list of top franchise conferences to attend, along with tips to help you get the most out of your time there.

JANUARY

Selling Franchises Summit – January 23–24 (West Palm Beach, FL)
Hosted by Palm Beach Atlantic University, this event brings together experienced professionals and around 120 attendees, representing over 60 different brands. It’s a good place to learn and exchange ideas.

FEBRUARY

The Franchise Show Dallas – February 1–2 (Dallas, TX)
This regional event is hosted by National Event Management and focuses on local franchises and franchisees. Other versions of this show are also listed below.

Let’s Grow – February 2–4 (Dallas, TX)
After a strong first year in 2024, this event by Michael Hyam and Liane Caruso centers on franchise development. The full agenda is available on their website.

IFA Annual Convention – February 9–12 (Las Vegas, NV)
The biggest franchise convention of the year. It features many learning sessions, experienced speakers, and a large vendor area.

The Franchise Show Nashville – February 22–23 (Nashville, TN)

MARCH

Franchise UnConference – March 12–15 (Park City, UT)
A unique event described as an “extreme networking retreat.” It’s a strong option if your goal is to meet decision-makers and expand your network.

Multi-Unit Conference – March 25–28 (Las Vegas, NV)
Focused on multi-unit investors and franchisors, this event includes keynote speakers and an exhibit area. Vendor spots fill up quickly.

APRIL

IFE South Charlotte – April 4–5 (Charlotte, NC)
This event is held in partnership with the IFA and is focused on showcasing franchises and finding potential franchisees.

The Franchise Show Chicago – April 12–13 (Chicago, IL)

The Franchise Show DC/Virginia – April 26–27 (Herndon, VA)

MAY

The Franchise Show Las Vegas – May 2–3 (Las Vegas, NV)

Legal Symposium – May 4–6 (Washington, DC)
This event focuses on legal matters affecting the franchise industry, including changes in U.S. franchise laws.

IFA World Franchise Show – May 9–10 (Miami, FL)
This is the first time this show is being held. It’s hosted by the IFA and a new partner, and it looks promising.

Young Conference – May 12–15 (Scottsdale, AZ)
Geared toward up-and-coming leaders in the franchise space.

The Franchise Show Orlando – May 17–18 (Orlando, FL)

ICSC RECON – May 18–20 (Las Vegas, NV)
The largest real estate show in the world. It’s an excellent place to meet professionals who can help you find locations for your business.

International Franchise Expo (IFE) – May 29–31 (New York, NY)
One of the largest franchise expos, drawing visitors from all 50 states and over 120 countries. More than 300 franchise brands will be exhibiting.

JUNE

The Franchise Show Houston – June 7–8 (Houston, TX)

FCXC – June 24–26 (Atlanta, GA)
An event focused on the full franchise experience, including marketing, operations, and technology.

SEPTEMBER

The QSR Evolution Conference – September 2–4 (Atlanta, GA)
Focused on the quick-service restaurant industry. Includes sessions about QSR operations and talks from well-known brands.

Franchise Expo West – September 5–6 (Los Angeles, CA)
Held with the support of the IFA, this event connects franchise brands with future owners.

The Franchise Show Denver – September 13–14 (Denver, CO)

IFA Leadership Summit and Franchise Action Network (FAN) Annual Meeting – September 15–17 (Washington, DC)
A special event for IFA leadership members that also includes advocacy work at the U.S. Capitol.

Franchise Show Detroit – September 27–28 (Detroit, MI)

IFPG Retreat – September 29–October 1 (Hollywood, FL)
A chance for IFPG consultants and suppliers to meet and build relationships. A great networking opportunity with IFPG brokers.

OCTOBER

Franchise Show Atlanta – October 4–5 (Atlanta, GA)

FLDC – October 7–9 (Atlanta, GA)
An education-only event for franchise system leaders. The focus is on franchise development.

Springboard for Emerging and Re-Emerging Brands – October 15–17 (Philadelphia, PA)
Hosted by Fisher Zucker law firm and Fishman PR Group, this event offers formal learning sessions and nightly networking.

Franchise Show Phoenix – October 18–19 (Phoenix, AZ)

FBR Summit – October 22–24 (Austin, TX)
This summit focuses on improving franchisee operations and success. The 2024 edition sold out, so plan ahead.

NOVEMBER

The Franchise Show Tampa – November 1–2 (Tampa, FL)

The Franchise Show Los Angeles – November 9–10 (Los Angeles, CA)

The Restaurant Finance and Development Conference – November 10–12 (Las Vegas, NV)
Hosted by Franchise Times, this event is ideal for restaurant operators looking to meet with financial professionals.

Emerging Franchisor Conference – November 10–12 (Nashville, TN)
Similar to SpringBoard, but smaller. Designed for growing brands with fewer than 100 units.

Franchise Expo Austin – November 14–15 (Austin, TX)

Why Owners Should Attend Franchise Conferences in 2025

Franchise conferences are not just for making your business name known. They help you build strong, lasting relationships and trust in the industry.

What to Expect at a Franchise Convention:

Learn What’s New
You’ll hear about new strategies, technologies, and industry updates that can help you stay ahead.

Meet Industry Leaders
By talking with franchise owners, experts, and peers, you can discover new ideas and opportunities.

Find Solutions to Problems
Workshops and discussions often offer real answers to challenges you’re facing—shared by people who’ve already overcome them.

Many times, I’ve learned useful tips from other franchisees that helped me handle tough situations. Those experiences are worth the trip.

How to Get the Most Out of Franchise Conferences

Attending these events is an investment. To make it worthwhile, here are a few tips:

Plan Your Sessions
Check the agenda ahead of time and pick the sessions that match your goals. Think about who you want to meet and be sure to follow up afterward.

Be Ready
Have questions in mind and think about who you want to connect with. You don’t need a complicated plan—just something to keep you focused.

Introduce Yourself
Speak with speakers, exhibitors, and other attendees. These contacts could turn into helpful business relationships later on.

Follow Through
After the event, take action. Even one follow-up email can lead to a new opportunity. I’ve seen small steps lead to big results.

Franchise conferences can help shape the future of your business. Start planning now to make the most of everything 2025 has to offer.