The countdown is on for the IFA Convention 2026, starting on February 23.
It’s the “Superbowl” of franchising. The biggest event of the year. The hottest party in the industry.
While a conference on this scale can be intimidating, it’s not as scary as you may think.
We’ve pulled together some of the franfam who’ve attended in the past to give their top pieces of advice.
TL;DR
Say hi to someone new
Push yourself out of the comfort zone
Don’t try to do it all; focus on one-on-one connections
Visit Booth #540 no matter what
Get Comfortable Being Uncomfortable
“Push yourself outside of your comfort zone, even if it’s scary. The IFA Convention is only as helpful as you make it, don’t go there to hang out with the people you see in the office everyday.”
-Zack Fishman, Chief Growth Officer, Fishman Public Relations
Get Out There
“Go there to build relationships. Show up and introduce yourself to your seat mates! The roundtables are a great learning and networking opportunity- don't skip out on those!
Also, the Supplier Forum Board & Franchisor Forum Board meetings are open to all- you should check them out to know more of what's going on.”
-Michelle Monroe Rowan, CFE, President & COO, Franchise Business Review
Focus on 1-on-1 Networking
“Networking is my jam but I have a love-hate relationship with IFA conference. It's SOOOOO BIG! Even though I know how to work a room, IFA can be overwhelming. So here's a tip - Focus on the person in front of you or next to you. Don't try to work the entire room. Trust that the person next to you is your next best connection and lean in to them. Oh and by all means, schedule as many get to know you one-to-ones on the spot! Don't try to follow up after, it probably won't happen.”
-Toni Harris Taylor, Networking Trainer, Drastic Results
Pace Yourself
“Wear comfortable shoes. If it’s your first time attending, go to the first timers meeting IFA has on the day. Pace yourself both with the daily activities and nightly outings. You can’t do everything, so plan your days out ahead of time.”
-Leah Wegman, VP of Operations, ServiceMinder
Say Hi To Someone New
“Never miss an opportunity to sit next to someone you don’t know. Practice your two floor elevator pitches and introductions. Oh, and get a selfie with Red [Boswell]. It’s not a franchising event until you’re in a selfie with Red Boswell.”
-John Keene, Founder, ServiceMinder
Stay Present
“Stay present. Remember why you are going to IFA Annual Convention in the first place. This event only happens once a year, so go all-in and give it your full attention for the short time you’re there. You won’t regret it!”
-Red Boswell, President, The International Franchise Professionals Group, IFPG
P.S. Red has 12 pieces of advice for making the most out of IFA. Read more here
One last piece of advice?
If you find yourself getting a headache for any reason...visit booth #540.
See you in Vegas soon.