Are you an entrepreneur interested in learning about franchising as a business model, speaking with experts in the field, and meeting representatives of some of the leading franchise organizations and up-and-coming franchise concepts in the world? Are you a franchisor seeking to expand in the eastern Mediterranean and Balkans? This two-day conference will provide an opportunity to learn, network, and close deals. Conference organizers and sponsors include the Cyprus Investment Promotion Agency, the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PWC), Marfin Laiki Bank, the Cyprus Telecommunications Authority, the Cyprus-American Business Association, the Cyprus Tourism Organization, and Franchise Deal magazine all of whom will be on hand to provide information and assistance. Moreover, the event is supported by the International Franchise Association.

Key Concepts for the Conference:

1) The Eastern Mediterranean and Balkans region are underserved by franchises: The conference will introduce franchising opportunities and potential to our target markets.  For example, the Cyprus market although relatively small, enjoys among the highest levels of per capita sales for franchises in the EU;

2) Women Entrepreneurs: Franchises can offer women entrepreneurs in the region a means to run their own business with full support from a corporate parent.

3) Fresh ideas for the Tourism Sector: An opportunity for hotel and restaurant franchisors to present their concepts to a well-capitalized audience eager to refresh and expand their services;

4) Operational and Tax advantages: Participants will learn the operational and tax advantages of locating a master franchise in Cyprus for conducting business throughout the EU and the region;

On Day One, the conference will feature international experts giving short presentations on a variety of subjects (see agenda ).  An official lunch and a networking cocktail reception will also be held for the first day of the conference to give the opportunity for all participants to interact.

On Day Two, participants can attend workshops and one-on-one meetings with U.S. and other Franchises, Legal, Accounting, and Financial Services companies and get down to business.