Scholarships
Supporting tomorrow’s franchise leaders.
2026 Scholarships are open from September 1 – November 24 2025!
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Scholarship opportunities:
The IFA Foundation is committed to cultivating the next generation of franchise leaders. Through scholarships that support students pursuing studies in franchising, business, and entrepreneurship, we are investing in the talent that will drive innovation and keep the franchise community thriving for years to come.
Scholarship recipients don’t just receive tuition support—they gain access to unparalleled opportunities. Each winner is awarded complimentary registration and a travel stipend to attend IFA’s Annual Convention, where they can connect with top executives, explore career pathways, and build relationships with leaders from the world’s most recognized brands. This experience jumpstarts their journey in franchising and ensures our industry continues to grow with fresh ideas and dedicated talent. Scholarships are funded by donations from IFA members and other generous supporters of the IFA Foundation.
Doc Cohen Franchising Scholarship
The Doc Cohen Franchising Scholarship honors franchising great Doc Cohen by recognizing and supporting the next generation of franchising leaders. This competitive award, presented annually, provides one recipient $3,500 in tuition assistance, as well as free registration and a travel stipend (up to $1,500) to attend the IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas. The recipient may also have the opportunity to connect directly with Doc Cohen and his robust network in the franchising industry. NEW! Two runner-ups will also be selected for a $1,000 award each, and the opportunity to attend the IFA Annual Convention.
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen enrolled in an accredited college/university in the U.S. with a major or primary focus in one or more of the following areas of study: business, finance, marketing, food service, hospitality, franchising, or entrepreneurship.
IFA Foundation Scholarship Sponsored by The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation
Created in memory of the co-founder of Subway, the IFA Foundation Scholarship Sponsored by The Frederick A. DeLuca Foundation recognizes and supports outstanding students interested in franchising who are enrolled in an accredited college/university with studies in business or franchise management. This competitive award, presented annually, provides one recipient $2,500 in tuition assistance, as well as free registration and a travel stipend (up to $1,500) to attend the IFA Annual Convention in Las Vegas.
To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen enrolled in an accredited college/university in the U.S. and studying business or franchise management.