How to Get Involved with the IFA's New Franchise Internship Program

The International Franchise Association (IFA) recently announced a new initiative: the Philip Zeidman Franchising Internship Program and Fund. This program, named in honor of the pioneering franchise law specialist Philip Zeidman, aims to educate future leaders in international franchising. The program is endowed by the IFA, the IFA Foundation and DLA Piper, the international law firm from which Zeidman recently retired.

The program is designed to provide financial aid to IFA summer interns who are majoring in business, finance, marketing, hospitality, franchising, entrepreneurship or law. The competitive nature of the internships ensures that only the most dedicated and passionate students will be selected. The program will teach them best practices in franchising and opportunities in franchise law, thereby maintaining Zeidman’s legacy of service and support for franchising around the globe.

Zeidman, a graduate of Yale with a law degree from Harvard Law School, has had a distinguished career in franchise law. Early in his career, he served as the youngest chief legal officer of any government agency, acting as general counsel for the Small Business Association. Here, he championed programs that helped entrepreneurs secure funding for their franchises. Zeidman later established a law firm with the IFA as his first client. After joining DLA Piper in 1968, he continued to support the franchise industry as a legal adviser to American and foreign companies, governments and trade associations.

“Philip Zeidman is known across franchising for his willingness to invest his time and talent to grow others,” said Matt Haller, president and CEO of the IFA. “It is only fitting that upon Phil’s retirement, we, along with DLA Piper, would recognize his lifetime of contribution by creating this endowment in his name. Phil has undoubtedly made a lasting impact on the business model, and this program is yet another way his legacy will be felt for generations to come.”

To get involved with the IFA's new Franchise Internship Program, students majoring in the aforementioned fields should keep an eye on the IFA's official communications for announcements about the application process. Given the competitive nature of the program, it's crucial to prepare a strong application showcasing your passion for franchising, your academic achievements and any relevant experience in the field.

The IFA's new Franchise Internship Program is not just an opportunity to gain practical experience in the franchising industry. It's also a chance to be part of a legacy, to learn from the best practices established by leaders like Zeidman and to contribute to the future of franchising. This program is a testament to the IFA's commitment to nurturing the next generation of franchise leaders.

The IFA, a 63-year-old Washington, D.C.-based trade industry group, supports all aspects of the industry worldwide. Its members include franchisors, franchisees and supportive entities. The nonprofit IFA Foundation, established in 1983, provides members with the resources to promote and protect the franchise business model while ensuring that franchising remains inclusive and a force for good.

Overall, the Philip Zeidman Franchising Internship Program and Fund is a significant step toward fostering the future leaders of the franchising industry. By getting involved in this program, students have the opportunity to learn from the best, gain valuable experience, and contribute to the growth and development of the franchising industry.