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Franchise expo free for veterans

Veterans will be admitted free to this weekend’s International Franchise Expo at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.

The expo will include information from companies offering incentives to veterans who choose to open franchises through the International Franchise Association’s VetFran program, said IFA spokesman Terry Hill.

Hundreds of franchises will operate booths at the expo, with details about small-business opportunities in more than 75 industries. Food service, drug screening, therapeutic massage, real estate and business services are just a few.

To be admitted free, go to the expo registration desk and say you are a veteran. Proof of military service is not required.

For non-veterans, on-site registration is $25 for one day and $35 for two or three days. Registration includes admission to exhibits and free seminars.

Expo highlights

The following are free seminars that may be of interest to veterans or transitioning service members:

• Franchising 101 for Veterans

Moderator: John P. Haynes, president and CEO, HomeVestors of America

Panelists: Wade B. Binion, Department of Veterans Affairs; Joe Loddo, U.S. Small Business Administration

Time: 2:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, March 31

The seminar includes the basics of franchising, information about assistance through the U.S. Small Business Administration, and discussions from veteran franchisees.

• How to Finance Your Franchise

Presenters: Bernie Siegel, president, and Nate Greenberg, general manager, Siegel Capital LLC

Time: 10:30 a.m.-noon Friday, March 30; repeated 12:30-2 p.m. Sunday, April 1

Participants learn to evaluate the level of investment they can afford and information on attaining financing and looking attractive to lenders as well as potential financing options, including U.S. Small Business Administration loans.

• Choosing the Right Franchise

Presenter: Lori Kiser-Block, president, FranChoice Inc.

Time: 3:30-5 p.m. Friday, March 30; repeated 10:30 a.m.-noon Sunday, April 1

The seminar focuses on identifying franchises participants can realistically can manage, market and promote.

• SBA Resources

Presenter: Freddie Biddle, commercial loan specialist, U.S. Small Business Administration

Time: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 31

A U.S. Small Business Administration official discusses business development, financial management and contract assistance programs designed to assist small business owners, managers and entrepreneurs.

If you go

What: International Franchise Expo

Show hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 30-31; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, April 1

Conference hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 30-31; and 10 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Sunday, April 1

Where: Washington Convention Center, 801 Mount Vernon Place, Washington, D.C.

More information

• For more details about the International Franchise Expo, including a complete schedule and list of exhibitors, visit the expo site.

• To find out which International Franchise Expo exhibitors are part of the VetFran program, look for the VetFran icon among these listings.

• A complete directory of franchises that participate in the VetFran program is available from the International Franchise Association