IFA Convenes Minneapolis Mayor Frey, Franchise Business Leaders During the Open for Opportunity Roadshow

Minn. (MN) – The International Franchise Association (IFA) kicked of its 2023 Open for Opportunity Roadshow in the Twin Cities this week. The Minnesota Roadshow stop included back-of-house tours at local franchise businesses and two roundtable discussions with franchisees, local and federal elected officials, and business and community leaders.

“The Twin Cities is a hub for iconic franchise brands, emerging franchise concepts and world-class suppliers to the franchise sector, not to mention a region where tens of thousands of franchises have opened, creating opportunities for local families to support their community by going into business for themselves, but not by themselves,” said Matt Haller, IFA President and CEO. “Our discussions with Mayor Frey and other elected officials helped ensure the franchise community has a seat at the table as such a vital contributor to the local economy.”

“When local business owners thrive, our city is successful and we see true economic inclusion,” said Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey. “Small local businesses, including franchises, are essential for our community – they create jobs, provide vibrancy to our neighborhoods, and support the beautiful diversity of our city. We are proud to welcome the International Franchise Association’s Open for Opportunity Roadshow and are supportive of their foundational goals of education and growth opportunities for the franchise and community.”

“As someone whose life was personally changed by the franchising, I always want to share my experience with others so they too can benefit,” said Tamra Kennedy, owner of Taco John’s. “This unique business model has given me the opportunity to build a successful, growing operation that gives back to my community in meaningful ways. I’m encouraged by our conversations with local leaders this week and hope other local small businesses will have the opportunity to tell their stories as well.”

“The Open for Opportunity Roadshow is a shining example of how franchising positively impacts our community by reducing the barriers of entry to business ownership for so many,” said Dave Mortensen, Co-Founder and President of Self Esteem Brands. “We were thrilled to be a part of these important conversations, and I’m proud of our continued partnership as we work with local, state, and federal policymakers to support our growing industry in the Twin Cities and across Minnesota.” 

Nearly 14,000 local franchise establishments in Minnesota provide more than 140,000 local jobs. In 2021, the sector provided $5.2 billion in payroll, generated more than $13 billion dollars in economic output, and contributed $7.8 billion to Minnesota’s gross state product.

The Open for Opportunity Roadshow officially launched at the 2022 IFA Annual Convention in San Diego with stops in South Florida, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Wilmington, DE, Sacramento, San Jose, and across Virginia and Maryland.

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