The IFA Advocacy Summit is where franchisors, franchisees, and suppliers unite in Washington, D.C., to influence the policies shaping the franchise business model.
Over two days, attendees meet directly with lawmakers, participate in high-level policy briefings, and ensure the realities of running a franchise and the impact of the franchise business model are understood before laws are written.
From labor regulations to tax reform, this is franchising’s annual moment to speak with one voice.
Why the IFA Advocacy Summit Matters for Franchise Leaders
If you’re running a franchise system, the rules that come out of Washington can either help you scale or create new hurdles overnight.
The IFA Advocacy Summit is built to make sure those decisions are informed by the people who live the franchise model every day.
Here’s what attendees gain:
- Direct Lawmaker Access
Pre-arranged meetings on Capitol Hill where you can share your brand’s story, needs, and goals backed by policy talking points that resonate.
- Policy Briefings That Matter
Learn about upcoming legislation—such as changes to labor classifications or tax laws—before they reach the floor.
- Collective Influence
Join hundreds of franchise professionals delivering a unified, data-backed message to policymakers.
What to Expect This Year
- Dates & Venue: September 15–17, 2025 at the JW Marriott Washington, D.C.
- Agenda: Policy briefings, networking with peers and policymakers, and guided Capitol Hill visits. Check the full agenda here.
- Who’s Coming: C-level execs, multi-unit owners, suppliers—and, yes, lawmaker staffers and regulators.
The ClientTether team will also be there to ensure lawmakers help protect franchisors and franchise software suppliers servicing this industry.
Why Is this Franchise Conference Critical?
Shape Policy Before It’s Set in Stone
Policy made in Washington has a way of rippling through every franchise location, from royalty structure to wage norms.
The IFA Advocacy Summit gives franchisors and franchisees a voice before rules become rigid.
Franchise Power in Unity
Individual stories matter, but when those stories form a unified chorus, lawmakers listen.
The Summit turns collective franchisor experiences into policy shifts, like the IFA’s work to codify a narrow, stabilizing joint‑employer standard via the Save Local Business Act.
That sort of influence only happens when the industry shows up at scale.
Stay Ahead, Not Behind
Smart franchisors anticipate new regulations. The Summit delivers early access to the IFA’s policy roadmap, including labor law changes, tax priorities, and enhanced disclosure rules.
That foresight gives you time to align systems, train staff, and update processes before everything becomes urgent.
FAQs: Attending the IFA Advocacy Summit
Who can attend the IFA Advocacy Summit?
Attendance is exclusive to IFA and Franchise Action Network (FAN) members, ensuring participants are actively engaged in shaping franchise policy.
How are meetings with lawmakers arranged?
The IFA organizes all Capitol Hill visits and provides briefing materials, so you arrive prepared to share your story and key talking points.
What policy issues will be discussed in 2025?
Expect updates on the joint-employer standard, pass-through tax rules, labor classifications, and other regulations impacting franchise growth and compliance.
Is this event useful for emerging franchise brands?
Yes. Brands of all sizes benefit, with smaller franchisors gaining access to advocacy training, peer networking, and early insight into regulatory changes.
How can smaller franchise brands participate?
While the event runs D.C.-level sessions, brands of all sizes find room to join breakouts and network with peer advocates.
Bottom Line
Your next franchise conference is an opportunity to take part in the conversations that shape the future of franchising.
So bring your story, stay informed, and make sure to connect with the ClientTether team in Washington.
If protecting your franchise business model matters, this is where we make it count.
