Franchise Action Network (FAN) Virtual Advocacy Day 2020: Recap

IFA is proud to give our members a voice when it comes to legislative issues that impact the franchise business model. Each year, we host the Franchise Action Network (FAN) Annual Meeting, where attendees meet with their members of Congress in the nation's capital. However, in-person meetings this year were out of the question. But IFA couldn't let this important advocacy event just pass by — and so, the Franchise Action Network (FAN) Virtual Advocacy Day was born!

Taking place July 21-22, 2020, over 500 IFA members shared their opinions with lawmakers as they decide on the next round of COVID-19 relief.

What were FANs discussing with members of Congress?

FANs advocated for two crucial policy issues facing franchise businesses: the need for additional liquidity and liability protections. Without additional liquidity, many businesses may be overwhelmed by debt in the long term, and without liability protections, businesses face an increased vulnerability to COVID-19 related lawsuits.

We even received an inspiring message from House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy the morning of our advocacy day: 

How did we do?

During those two days of advocacy, we made quite the impact. Over 3,000 emails were sent to members of Congress, more than 150 phone calls and Zoom meetings were conducted with elected officials and their staff, and countless social media posts were taking over newsfeeds. 

Didn't get a chance to attend, but want to get involved? 

It’s not too late to send messages to your members of Congress! Access IFA’s advocacy toolkit here to make an impact for franchising, and make sure you're a FAN advocate by signing up here.

Thank you to our event sponsors: