Creating a stronger franchise pool.

International Franchise Association seminars target diversity

The International Franchise Association (IFA) is going the extra mile to attract, educate, and train the best talent for future franchise ownership. Sponsored by the Coca-Cola Corp., the IFA Educational Foundation launched a new program, "Diversity Today, Inclusive Organizations Tomorrow." The seminars will discuss how diversity affects the workplace as well as the marketplace. They will also explore opportunities and obstacles, and provide techniques for creating a more inclusive work environment.

The first of the series took place on June 14, 2001, in Dallas, Texas, for local franchise professionals. Subsequent seminars will take place in the Chicago area on September 13 and in Minneapolis on October 18.

Franchisees in those areas are welcome to attend, and participants are eligible to earn credits toward the Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) designation, a professional distinction developed by the foundation as a way to meet marketplace demands for motivated, experienced franchise owners. The fee for attendance is $250. To earn the CFE designation, candidates must attend IFA-sponsored educational seminars and complete extensive course work.

"The IFA is determined to make a difference by attracting more people from diverse backgrounds into the franchising community. The best way to do that is through education," says Leon J. Oldham, chairman of the IFA Minorities in Franchising Committee.

For further information, contact the IFA Educational Foundation at 202-628-8000 or log on to the IFA Website, www.franchise.org.