William Rosenberg and The Foundation of IFA

Spotlight on People
Bill Rosenberg

"A leader must possess credibility, imagination, enthusiasm, vision, foresight, a sense of timing, a passion for excellence and be willing to share."
- William Rosenberg

In 1960, Dunkin' Donuts founder William Rosenberg created the International Franchise Association with a goal to serve the national franchising community. Over the last 60 years, IFA has grown into an unstoppable global resource that advocates for and protects our members and their businesses. Rosenberg shared his passion for franchising with the world through the IFA, and thanks to him, the franchise business model strengthens and grows every day.

IFA's Original Bylaws

IFA's Original Bylaws, Written by William Rosenberg in 1960
Photo credit: unh.edu

How did William Rosenberg decide to start the IFA? It all started in 1959, when Rosenberg attended a "Start Your Own Business" trade show. He quickly noticed that there was no association or support group for entrepreneurs in the franchise space like himself. At the trade show, he got together with a group of exhibitors who were also in the franchise space, and the IFA was born!

Since it's birth, the International Franchise Association has helped to protect, promote, and enhance franchising worldwide, and it's all thanks to William Rosenberg. In the 1980's, Rosenberg took his love for franchising and the IFA even further by helping to establish IFA's Educational Foundation, which now helps thousands in franchising to learn about the franchise business model. To honor Rosenberg, IFA's Foundation has offered the William Rosenberg Leadership Award to many franchise leaders.

Rosenberg Ford

Former U.S. President Gerald Ford and William Rosenberg at IFA's 1990 Convention in Hawaii
Photo credit: unh.edu

Rosenberg stayed active and involved with the IFA for decades, and his effects on the franchise business model will live on for decades to come. So, next time you enjoy a cup of Dunkin' Donuts coffee or visit an IFA member's franchise business, be sure to thank William Rosenberg!

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