Shantel
Key Takeaways:
- The Patriot Franchise Expo will convene hundreds of entrepreneurially-minded Veterans and Military Spouses to meet with leading franchise brands.
- The expo intends to connect 40 national franchise brands with potential veteran franchisees, continuing a trend of high fit between veterans and franchising.
- It also features educational sessions, keynote speakers, and panel discussions, aiming to equip attendees with knowledge and resources for their transition to the civilian sector.
- Patriot Expo LLC, a joint venture of several Veteran-owned companies, organizes the event as part of its mission to help Veterans and their families realize their entrepreneurial dreams.
About Patriot Expo LLC
Patriot Expo LLC, a Florida-based joint venture, unites several Veteran-owned companies. Their collective mission? To assist military Veterans and their families in achieving their dreams of entrepreneurship. The organization spearheads efforts such as the Patriot Franchise Expo, bringing opportunity and resources to those transitioning from military service to civilian life.
The Patriot Franchise Expo: A Gathering for Entrepreneurial Veterans
In the heart of Texas, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, an event of paramount importance will take place on July 29-30, 2023. The Patriot Franchise Expo is a unique platform where Veterans and Military Spouses from Texas and beyond will assemble to explore franchise opportunities with America’s top brands.
“We are expecting 40 national franchise brands that represent hundreds of Veteran franchisees and employ thousands of Veterans and Military Spouses in communities nationwide,” said CW4 (Ret) Stephen Davis, Senior Partner with Patriot Expo, and Service-Disabled Veteran. “What better candidate to replicate a franchisor’s proven roadmap for success than those that have already demonstrated the same for our country.”
Indeed, according to industry figures, Veterans account for 14% of franchisees nationwide, while over 500 franchise brands offer incentives to prospective Veteran candidates. Given that 97% of franchisors report that Veterans have proven to be an excellent fit as franchise operators, the Patriot Franchise Expo is a nexus of opportunity.
Franchising: A Pathway to Prosperity for Veterans
Every year, approximately 17,000 service members transition from the military to civilian life, seeking new opportunities. While 25% of Post 9/11 Veterans express a desire to start their own business, the reality shows only 4% take the plunge.
The Patriot Franchise Expo aims to bridge this gap, providing a launchpad for Veterans to explore entrepreneurship via franchising. Companies like Little Caesar’s, Fantastic Sam’s, Ace Hardware, and Neighborly® will be present to discuss career opportunities with these heroes and their spouses.
“Franchising truly enables Veterans to be in business for themselves, but not by themselves,” said Retired Marine Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Schmiegel, Chief Executive Officer at ZeroMils.
A Holistic Approach to Transition
Beyond just franchise opportunities, the Expo offers a wealth of resources to assist in the transition to civilian life. From keynote speakers and panel discussions to breakout educational sessions, Veterans will be equipped with the tools they need to succeed.
Additionally, organizations like VetFran, a strategic initiative of the International Franchise Association and the IFA Foundation, will be presenting at the Expo as a Liberty Sponsor. Veteran-friendly finance experts will also be on-site to assist with startup funding, and multiple Veteran non-profits will provide valuable resources for Veterans and their families.
The Expo is open to the public, but there is no cost for Veterans and Military Spouses to attend, underlining the event’s commitment to aiding those who’ve served their country in embarking on their next mission.
To participate in the Patriot Franchise Expo, please register at www.PatriotFranchiseExpo.com. This could be the first step in a prosperous journey towards entrepreneurship for many of our nation’s heroes.
