FranPAC Hits New Fund-Raising Record, IFA Chairman Dons First 5K Pin

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Franchising World June 2008

By Victoria Adams

Vigorous fund-raising activities by International Franchise Association members have propelled the association’s political action committee, FranPAC, to a record first quarter in 2008. With more than $390,000 raised through personal contributions for FranPAC this election cycle, the association is set to exceed the strategic goal of $400,000. These successful fund-raising results have enabled the PAC to contribute more than $270,000 so far this cycle and play an important role in the 2008 elections.

Highlights of FranPAC activities this year included gaining overall commitments of more than $160,000 during IFA’s 48th Annual Convention in February through the efforts of energized and engaged attendees who participated in several fund-raising opportunities. Among those commitments were funds garnered through the popular “365” Club, showcasing a new 2008 membership pin, which raised more than $43,000, the exclusive VIP reception, featuring convention keynote speaker U.S. Army General Colin L. Powell (ret.), raised more than $40,000, and the annual event’s popular Silent Auction garnered more than $17,000 in contributions.

The PAC’s “Maximum Donor” program also got a boost as four new members have already enlisted this year. Drawing on the popularity of the “365” pin, FranPAC has created a “5K” maximum donor pin which will be rolled-out during the IFA Summer Board of Directors Meeting in June. IFA Chairman Steve Greenbaum, CFE, CEO of PostNet International Franchise Corp. became the first maximum donor to achieve the $5,000 status during the International Franchise Expo April 12 in Washington D.C.

FranPAC is also preparing for its annual wine auction during the Summer Board Meeting in Colorado Springs, as well as working with IFA members in Colorado, Georgia, Minnesota and Texas to organize fund-raising events for the PAC later this year. Leading IFA companies such as The Dwyer Group, Jani-King, Meineke and PostNet International Franchise Corp. have assisted FranPAC with fund-raising appeals during their respective conventions, which help educate their franchisees and employees about IFA legislative priorities, as well as raise significant funds for the PAC.

FranPAC continues to help the IFA increase its visibility among lawmakers on Capitol Hill. In 2007, the committee put its resources to work hosting a record number of fund-raising events for members of Congress, helping to leverage resources and build strong relationships with key lawmakers and industry allies. FranPAC will continue to host events for specific members of Congress and groups this year leading up to the elections. The association also plans a full slate of activities during the national political party conventions in Minneapolis and Denver to increase IFA’s political insight and visibility.

Visit the Government Relations section of Franchise.org for more information on FranPAC and how to get involved.

Victoria Adams is director of political affairs of the International Franchise Association. She can be reached at 202-662-0781 or vadams@franchise.org.

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