Dream vacations, power tools, fashion glasses — VetFran is responsible for an unexpected mix of businesses developed in part by the initiative’s mission to create pathways for Veterans transitioning from service to business ownership.

VetFran celebrated all the businesses under its umbrella during an amazing week at IFA’s Team Franchising Convention 2025.

During the reception, IFA members honored Veterans, shared updates on new partnerships and progress made in 2024, and thanked the 2025 VetFran sponsors at the Convention’s VetFran reception. Thanks to EverSmith brands for hosting!

Brands got specific tips on how to increase commitment to Veterans and help ease the way for more Veterans to get involved in franchising in a special session sponsored by Neighborly. If you’re looking for ideas, there are many ways to give back to our Veterans.

• Highlight Veterans in national publications.
• Offer favorable in-house financing.
• Partner with local military installations and Veteran service organizations.

It’s also helpful to get the word out. Share Veteran successes across social media platforms, advertise Veteran programs and incentives, and create a Veteran resource group within your brand.

Look for VetFran in the News

VetFran is making headlines, and will be featured in Boots to Business, Boots to Business Reboot and Military Spouse Pathways curriculum. In person, IFA VetFran member brands will pilot a brown bag lunch program featuring a successful Veteran franchisee. If you want to be considered, reach out to Wendy Kunz for more details at wkunz@franchise.org.

Alert: New Tools Available   

Get a first look at the developing VetFran member toolkit, which now includes a media kit, helpful VetFran slides, and tips on creating a military friendly brand. Get tips from the best in the business in the new toolkit. The Veteran Education is up and running with webinars and live in-person events with our military partners. Make sure your VetFran contact info is up to date for related news and updates.

None of this would be possible without support, and we want to include a very special thank you to our 2025 sponsors.

2025 Sponsorships Thank You

Platinum

• SportClips
• Neighborly
• Dina Dwyer-Owens and Mike Owens
• EverSmith

Gold

• FranServe
• Snap-On Tools

Silver

• DreamMaker Bath and Kitchen
• Princeton Equity

Bronze

• PuroClean and FranFund