
About this Event
Are you ready to take your business to the next level through franchising? Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking to explore franchise opportunities or an existing franchise owner eager to scale beyond a single unit, Pathways to Franchising in the DFW Metroplex is your gateway to success.
Join us for an exclusive, high-impact event designed to equip you with the knowledge, strategies, and financial resources needed to grow your franchise business to five units and beyond.
π Location: The Dallas Entrepreneur Center I 3560 W Camp Wisdom Rd STE 200 I Dallas, TX 75237, USA
π
Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
β° Time: 5:00 PM CST - 8:00 PM CST
Donβt miss this opportunity to take control of your franchise future.
Spots are limitedβsecure your seat today!
What to Expect
β’ Expert-Led Panel Discussions β Hear from seasoned franchise professionals who have successfully expanded their brands.
β’ Funding & Financial Strategies β Learn how to secure the capital needed to scale your franchise.
β’ Brand Showcases β Explore franchise opportunities available in the DFW Metroplex.
β’ Networking with Industry Leaders β Connect with franchise executives, investors, and business development professionals.
Who Should Attend?
β’ Aspiring entrepreneurs exploring franchise ownership
β’ Current franchisees looking to expand their operations
β’ Small business owners seeking proven growth strategies
β’ Investors and professionals interested in franchise opportunities
Why Attend?
β’ Gain insider insights on how to successfully scale a franchise.
β’ Connect with decision-makers from top franchise brands.
β’ Learn about funding opportunities tailored to franchise growth.
β’ Get actionable strategies to overcome common barriers to expansion.

Agenda
π: 05:00 PM - 05:15 PM
Doors Open & Networking
π: 05:15 PM - 05:20 PM
Welcome Remarks and IFA Partners Remarks
Host: David Smith
π: 05:20 PM - 05:45 PM
Panel 1 - How Williams and Wingstop Scaled to 5 Units in DFW
Host: Rachel Proctor
Info: Join Tim Williams and Calvin Golden as they share their firsthand experiences in scaling Williams Chicken and Wingstop to five successful locations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Moderated by Rachel Proctor, Mayor of DeSoto, TX, and a successful Salata franchise owner, this session will dive into the strategies, challenges, and key decisions that fueled their growth. From site selection and operational efficiencies to brand positioning and overcoming market hurdles, attendees will gain actionable insights into multi-unit expansion, franchising best practices, and the realities of scaling in the competitive food service industry. Donβt miss this opportunity to learn from three industry leaders who have successfully navigated the franchise growth journey!
π: 05:45 PM - 06:10 PM
Panel 2 - Brand Scaling Strategies from the Franchise Impact Ambassador
Host: Calvin Golden
Info: Scaling a brand in the franchise industry requires strategic planning, operational excellence, and the right partnerships. In this insightful discussion, Calvin Golden will engage Carlos White, a seasoned franchise attorney and the Franchise Impact Ambassador, in a deep dive into proven strategies for scaling franchise brands. Attendees will learn key growth tactics, legal considerations, and how to navigate expansion challenges while maintaining brand integrity. Whether you're an emerging franchisor or looking to scale your franchise portfolio, this session will provide actionable insights to help you achieve sustainable growth.
π: 06:10 PM - 06:35 PM
Panel 3 - Franchise Initiative Fund: Helping Fund Your First 5 Units
Host: Carlos White
Info: Access to capital is one of the biggest challenges for aspiring franchisees looking to scale. In this session, Carlos White will lead a discussion with Anthony Williams and EB Campbell of the Black Diamond Group on how their organization supports entrepreneurs in funding their first five franchise units. Panelists will share insights on securing financing, structuring deals, and leveraging resources to accelerate growth. Whether you're launching your first franchise or expanding your portfolio, this session will provide key financial strategies to help you succeed.
π: 06:35 PM - 06:50 PM
Networking Break
π: 06:50 PM - 07:00 PM
DeSoto Is Open for Business
Host: Antoine Long
Info: This session will showcase DeSotoβs strong trade-area to expanding retail brands and business opportunities to potential franchisees. The DeSoto Development Corporation has attended various retail shows and engaged with retailers and developers interested in the market. Economic Development Manager Antoine Long will spotlight national brands with DeSoto on their radar seeking a local franchisee and share several real estate sites and proposed developments ongoing in DeSoto.
π: 07:00 PM - 07:50 PM
Exclusive Brand Presentation
Host: Brian Woods
Info: Neighborly (7:00pm β 7:10pm)
π: 07:50 PM - 07:55 PM
Closing Remarks
Host: David Smith
π: 07:55 PM - 08:00 PM
Networking
π: 08:00 PM
Close Event
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The DEC Network, 3560 West Camp Wisdom Road, Dallas, United States
USD 0.00