Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
The 2025 IFA Convention will be held at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas this Feburary 10th-13th. It’s a five-day extravaganza, widely known as the biggest trade show of the year for the franchising industry. I first attended the annual IFA Convention in 2019, but I’ve learned so much since my first exposure to this all-important gathering.
I wanted to pass along some of the things I’ve learned over the years, including what to do and what not to do. It’s my hope that any first-time attendee will benefit from these five helpful tips.
Attend panels like a pro
What separates top performers from the rest? An insatiable hunger for growth. The IFA Convention is packed with thought leaders sharing game-changing insights. Don’t just wander the halls — be strategic. Circle sessions that align with your goals and sit up front if you can.
Engage, take notes, and think about how these lessons apply to your work. These nuggets of wisdom often spark the best follow-up conversations with new connections.
Related: Here’s how we determined our annual Franchise 500 ranking and what we learned from the data.
Stick around after the curtain falls
Many attendees dash to the airport the moment the final session wraps, but that’s when the real magic happens. Some of the most impactful connections I’ve made were during late-night dinners or casual drinks when the pressure was off.
Stay for the closing party or dinner — you’ll find people more relaxed and open, leading to genuine conversations that stick far beyond a quick booth chat.
Related: See Which Brands Topped Entrepreneur‘s 46th Annual Franchise 500
Make connections before you arrive
The IFA convention isn’t just about who you meet on-site — it starts weeks before. Scan the event agenda, identify key people, and reach out via LinkedIn or email with a friendly note. Let them know you’re looking forward to their session or would love to connect at the event.
It’s not about pitching; it’s about planting seeds. When you finally meet in person, it feels less like a cold intro and more like reconnecting with an old acquaintance.
Related: The One Factor the Top Franchises of 2025 Have in Common
Be intentional with your time
IFA is huge. Like, “you’ll get lost without a plan” huge. You won’t hit every booth, and that’s okay. Map out your must-see exhibitors, schedule meetings in advance, and leave room for spontaneous chats. Quality trumps quantity. Ten meaningful conversations will open more doors than collecting a stack of business cards you’ll forget by next week.
Network beyond the booths
Some of the best connections happen outside the expo floor. Whether it’s chatting in line for coffee, grabbing lunch with strangers, or striking up a conversation at an after-hours event, don’t underestimate casual moments.
Authentic interactions build trust quicker than rehearsed pitches. Oh, and if you need an icebreaker? Stop by Booth 547 — we’ll have puppies. Because who can resist a puppy, right?
Related: Never Buy a Franchise Without Researching These 5 Sources
