Entrepreneurship can often feel out of reach, but the Franchise Ascension Initiative (FAI) is rewriting the rules — and expanding access.

This six-month accelerator, powered by the International Franchise Association (IFA) Foundation, equips individuals from underrepresented, economically disadvantaged, and military-connected communities with the tools, mentorship, and access needed to succeed as franchise owners. The goal? Transform the future of franchising by catalyzing the success of diverse franchise talent.

Launched in 2024, FAI is more than just a training program. It’s a guided journey into the heart of the franchising industry. The inaugural cohort of 17 participants — diverse in geography, gender, background, and military service — logged over 250 hours of hands-on franchise education. That training was delivered through a dynamic hybrid model: weekly self-paced online modules, three major IFA event experiences, one-on-one mentoring with experienced franchise professionals, and topical “kitchen table” discussions.

Participants didn’t just learn the ins and outs of successful franchise ownership — they built community. From the IFA Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C., to the Emerging Franchisor Conference and the IFA Annual Convention, cohort members cultivated meaningful networks to further the knowledge and support system catalyzing their success. They met industry leaders, engaged in conversations on the hottest topics in franchising, and began to see their own potential reflected in the success stories around them.

Following the culmination of the first cohort in February, FAI alumni are becoming those success stories:

Michael Gatewood and Clarence Howell, among others, are actively working to build and expand their franchise portfolio. A number of alumni from the cohort are likewise making strides toward franchise ownership — connecting with brands, identifying concrete opportunities for ownership, working to secure capital — and hope to share news of new ownership or expansion in the near future.

Clarence Howell and C-A Washington, both inaugural FAI class members, were invited to speak at the World Franchise Show in Miami — an incredible recognition of their growth and perspective. Meanwhile, Chandler Hayden, another graduate, was promoted to Franchise Development Manager at Taco John’s.

The common thread across these stories is the program’s unmatched support network.

“With access to resources and extensive training, FAI established an environment of continuous support long after program completion,” said Ava Holt, a graduate. “I feel confident that I can navigate the challenges of franchising and accelerate my future franchise ownership.”

That continuity of support is by design. The IFA Foundation is committed to tracking each cohort’s progress beyond their initial six-month program, ensuring alumni have the ongoing tools they need to launch and grow their franchises. For many, the mentorship component — a cornerstone of FAI  —was pivotal.

“I am not alone in the process. The expertise and resources are accessible and available,” one participant shared.

The impact of FAI isn’t just individual — it’s systemic. By lowering barriers to entry and emphasizing representation, FAI is helping build a more equitable franchising ecosystem.

“This program did not simply educate me in purchasing a franchise — it inspired me to think owner-minded,” said Sharonda Faison. “To operate with intention, and to consider opportunities in the context of long-term viability.”

The IFA Foundation will welcome a new class of 30 rising franchise leaders in August 2025. Stay tuned for an upcoming announcement introducing the second Franchise Ascension Initiative cohort — and don’t miss your chance to meet them in person at the IFA Advocacy Summit this September.