Name
CFA Franchise Your Business
Date
Thursday, May 1, 2025
Time
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Our Speakers

Larry Weinberg
Larry Weinberg
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Lyn Little
Lyn Little
Partner
BDO Canada
Ken LeBlanc, CFE
Ken LeBlanc, CFE
CEO
PropertyGuys.com
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Franchise Growth Expert
Ascend Franchise Solutions Inc.
Sean Dexter
Ceo
SEED Your Business

11:00 AM ET

Opening Remarks

Larry Weinberg
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Larry Weinberg

11:15 AM ET

What are the criteria a business needs to satisfy in order to become a franchise system? In this consultant expert session, you’ll learn how to tell if a franchise model works, the philosophy behind a successful business, how to work with the many people within a company, and the relationship between franchisee and franchisor. The expert will also provide advice on financial considerations, consultant systems, how to properly train franchisees, and important notes franchisors need to consider, among much more.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Identify the criteria and considerations for transforming a business into a successful franchise system, including consumer needs and sustainability.
  2. Recognize into the dynamics of the franchisor-franchisee relationship and the roles of each party involved in a franchise system.
  3.  Understand key financial, legal, and operational aspects of franchising, including strategic growth plans, company philosophy, and implementation of training and consultant systems.
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Franchise Growth Expert
Ascend Franchise Solutions Inc.
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE

12:00 PM ET

Explore different types of franchising and determine if the franchise model is the right fit for you, considering quasi-entrepreneurship and system standards. Gain insights into franchise laws across Canada, including current locations, upcoming areas, and potential gaps. Dive into key franchise documents, such as franchise agreements and disclosure documents, and understand the statutory obligations of franchisors. Discover the importance of protecting intellectual property, maintaining system uniformity, and addressing potential disputes. Learn about trademarks, incorporation benefits, privacy policies, and the essential protections needed for franchisees. Uncover critical lease, renewal, transfer, and termination considerations. Don't miss this opportunity to equip yourself with valuable legal knowledge for successful franchising.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Understand the different types of franchising and determine if the franchise model aligns with your business goals and aspirations.
  2. Explore of key franchise documents, including franchise agreements and disclosure documents, and comprehend the statutory obligations for franchisors.
  3. Evaluate the essential legal protections needed for both franchisors and franchisees, such as intellectual property, system uniformity, privacy policies, and lease considerations.
Larry Weinberg
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Larry Weinberg

1:00 PM ET

Lunch Break

1:30 PM ET

Dive into the story of a successful franchisor who shares their key insights and tips to replicate a business concept while franchising their brand. In this session, the franchisor will share the components of a franchise system, important questions to address, how to develop a franchisee training program, and how to find franchisees with the same vision and goals as the franchisor. They will also address how to make the business concept profitable for franchisees, the franchise concept profitable for a franchisor, how to succeed in unique and growing markets, finding ideal real estate, and much more.

Ken LeBlanc, CFE
CEO
PropertyGuys.com
Ken LeBlanc, CFE

2:15 PM ET

Before you decide to franchise your business, it’s important to know the various costs you’re responsible for that will determine whether you sink or swim. This session will explore the key factors that contribute to a strong and successful franchise system. Identify essential components, including site and franchisee selection, the value equation, credit history, financial strength, and ongoing monitoring and support of franchisees. Gain an understanding of the financial implications for both franchisors and franchisees and discover what characteristics franchisors should seek in potential franchisees. Learn about the valuable role banks play in the franchise financing process and the challenges and options available for financing. Understand the expectations and guidelines set by lenders and uncover the general rules for securing franchise financing.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Recognize the key elements that contribute to a strong and successful franchise system and how to implement them effectively.
  2. Understand the financial implications for both franchisors and franchisees in a franchise system, including financing options and lender expectations.
  3. Analyze the criteria and characteristics franchisors should look for in potential franchisees and the role of banks in adding value to the franchise financing process.

2:45 PM ET

One of the most important elements of building your franchise system is establishing a strong financial foundation. This session explores the financial aspects of franchising, covering everything from initial investment to ongoing financial management. Learn about the do’s and don’ts of franchise finance, key documents and processes, and best practices for maintaining financial health in your franchise system.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Examine key components of Financial Plans:
    • Understand how to estimate start-up costs and manage working capital.
    • Learn to create detailed financial plans and projections.
  2. Evaluate Financial Management Practices:
    • Best practices for financial reporting, cash flow management, and budgeting.
    • Maintain financial compliance and manage tax obligations.
  3. Ensure Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
    • Comply with financial disclosure requirements in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
    • Prepare and present required financial information.
Lyn Little
Partner
BDO Canada
Lyn Little

3:15 PM ET

Join a successful marketing expert who will offer attendees tips and advice for the marketing process of their franchise. In this session, you will learn what strategies you need to think of to create a successful franchise that will make a good impression on potential franchisees and their customers. Learn the key elements of creating a strong brand, including name, logo, message, personality, and experience. Understand the importance of a brand style guide and trademarks for brand consistency and legal protection. Differentiate between national and local marketing, as well as franchise recruitment marketing and consumer marketing. Discover strategies to promote local marketing and engage franchisees. Finally, learn how to establish effective online listings and social media systems and procedures for your franchise.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Identify the key elements of creating a strong brand and the importance of brand consistency and control.
  2.  Understand trademarks and their significance in protecting your brand.
  3. Review different marketing approaches, including national vs. local marketing and franchise recruitment marketing vs. consumer marketing.
Sean Dexter
Ceo
SEED Your Business

3:45 PM ET

Closing Remarks

Larry Weinberg
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Larry Weinberg
Name
CFA Franchise Your Business
Date
Thursday, June 12, 2025
Time
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Our Speakers

Frank Robinson
Frank Robinson
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
John Leavitt
John Leavitt
Partner
BDO Canada LLP
Shawn Saraga
Shawn Saraga
President and Founder
The Franchise Academy
Andrew Carter
Andrew Carter
Regional Market Leader - Franchise Finance
BMO Bank of Montreal
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Franchise Growth Expert
Ascend Franchise Solutions Inc.

11:00 AM ET

Opening Remarks

Frank Robinson
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Frank Robinson

11:15 AM ET

What are the criteria a business needs to satisfy in order to become a franchise system? In this consultant expert session, you’ll learn how to tell if a franchise model works, the philosophy behind a successful business, how to work with the many people within a company, and the relationship between franchisee and franchisor. The expert will also provide advice on financial considerations, consultant systems, how to properly train franchisees, and important notes franchisors need to consider, among much more.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Identify the criteria and considerations for transforming a business into a successful franchise system, including consumer needs and sustainability.
  2. Recognize into the dynamics of the franchisor-franchisee relationship and the roles of each party involved in a franchise system.
  3.  Understand key financial, legal, and operational aspects of franchising, including strategic growth plans, company philosophy, and implementation of training and consultant systems.
Shawn Saraga
President and Founder
The Franchise Academy
Shawn Saraga

12:00 PM ET

Explore different types of franchising and determine if the franchise model is the right fit for you, considering quasi-entrepreneurship and system standards. Gain insights into franchise laws across Canada, including current locations, upcoming areas, and potential gaps. Dive into key franchise documents, such as franchise agreements and disclosure documents, and understand the statutory obligations of franchisors. Discover the importance of protecting intellectual property, maintaining system uniformity, and addressing potential disputes. Learn about trademarks, incorporation benefits, privacy policies, and the essential protections needed for franchisees. Uncover critical lease, renewal, transfer, and termination considerations. Don't miss this opportunity to equip yourself with valuable legal knowledge for successful franchising.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Understand the different types of franchising and determine if the franchise model aligns with your business goals and aspirations.
  2. Explore of key franchise documents, including franchise agreements and disclosure documents, and comprehend the statutory obligations for franchisors.
  3. Evaluate the essential legal protections needed for both franchisors and franchisees, such as intellectual property, system uniformity, privacy policies, and lease considerations.
Frank Robinson
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Frank Robinson

1:00 PM ET

Lunch Break

1:30 PM ET

Dive into the story of a successful franchisor who shares their key insights and tips to replicate a business concept while franchising their brand. In this session, the franchisor will share the components of a franchise system, important questions to address, how to develop a franchisee training program, and how to find franchisees with the same vision and goals as the franchisor. They will also address how to make the business concept profitable for franchisees, the franchise concept profitable for a franchisor, how to succeed in unique and growing markets, finding ideal real estate, and much more.

2:15 PM ET

Before you decide to franchise your business, it’s important to know the various costs you’re responsible for that will determine whether you sink or swim. This session will explore the key factors that contribute to a strong and successful franchise system. Identify essential components, including site and franchisee selection, the value equation, credit history, financial strength, and ongoing monitoring and support of franchisees. Gain an understanding of the financial implications for both franchisors and franchisees and discover what characteristics franchisors should seek in potential franchisees. Learn about the valuable role banks play in the franchise financing process and the challenges and options available for financing. Understand the expectations and guidelines set by lenders and uncover the general rules for securing franchise financing.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Recognize the key elements that contribute to a strong and successful franchise system and how to implement them effectively.
  2. Understand the financial implications for both franchisors and franchisees in a franchise system, including financing options and lender expectations.
  3. Analyze the criteria and characteristics franchisors should look for in potential franchisees and the role of banks in adding value to the franchise financing process.
Andrew Carter
Regional Market Leader - Franchise Finance
BMO Bank of Montreal
Andrew Carter

2:45 PM ET

One of the most important elements of building your franchise system is establishing a strong financial foundation. This session explores the financial aspects of franchising, covering everything from initial investment to ongoing financial management. Learn about the do’s and don’ts of franchise finance, key documents and processes, and best practices for maintaining financial health in your franchise system.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Examine key components of Financial Plans:
    • Understand how to estimate start-up costs and manage working capital.
    • Learn to create detailed financial plans and projections.
  2. Evaluate Financial Management Practices:
    • Best practices for financial reporting, cash flow management, and budgeting.
    • Maintain financial compliance and manage tax obligations.
  3. Ensure Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
    • Comply with financial disclosure requirements in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
    • Prepare and present required financial information.
John Leavitt
Partner
BDO Canada LLP
John Leavitt

3:15 PM ET

Creating a successful franchise requires a robust and well-structured Franchise Operating System. This operations-focused session explores the essential decisions and systems necessary to duplicate your business model and grow a profitable franchise network. Learn how to build strong operational foundations, develop comprehensive training manuals, and implement effective training programs for franchisees. This session will cover the important do's and don'ts of operations, key documents and processes, and the operational and strategic considerations crucial for a thriving franchise system.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Develop Strong Franchise Operations:
    • Understand the key elements and best practices for developing robust franchise operations.
    • Learn the essential documents and processes required to build a successful franchise system.
  2. Create Effective Training and Manuals:
    • Discover best practices for creating comprehensive training manuals.
    • Implement successful training programs that ensure franchisees are well-prepared and aligned with your business standards.
  3. Transforming Business into a Franchise:
    • Identify the criteria and considerations for transforming a business into a successful franchise system, focusing on operational efficiency, consumer needs, and sustainability.

Create a franchise operating system that not only supports but enhances the growth and profitability of your franchise network. Join us to equip yourself with the knowledge and tools needed to successfully duplicate your business and build a happy, thriving franchise system.

Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Franchise Growth Expert
Ascend Franchise Solutions Inc.
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE

3:45 PM ET

Closing Remarks

Frank Robinson
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Frank Robinson
Name
CFA Franchise Your Business
Date
Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Time
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (EDT)

Our Speakers

Sam Sokoloff
Sam Sokoloff
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Franchise Growth Expert
Ascend Franchise Solutions Inc.
Lyn Little
Lyn Little
Partner
BDO Canada

11:00 AM ET

Opening Remarks

Sam Sokoloff
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Sam Sokoloff

11:15 AM ET

What are the criteria a business needs to satisfy in order to become a franchise system? In this consultant expert session, you’ll learn how to tell if a franchise model works, the philosophy behind a successful business, how to work with the many people within a company, and the relationship between franchisee and franchisor. The expert will also provide advice on financial considerations, consultant systems, how to properly train franchisees, and important notes franchisors need to consider, among much more.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Identify the criteria and considerations for transforming a business into a successful franchise system, including consumer needs and sustainability.
  2. Recognize into the dynamics of the franchisor-franchisee relationship and the roles of each party involved in a franchise system.
  3.  Understand key financial, legal, and operational aspects of franchising, including strategic growth plans, company philosophy, and implementation of training and consultant systems.
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE
Franchise Growth Expert
Ascend Franchise Solutions Inc.
Marietta Snetsinger, CFE

12:00 PM ET

Explore different types of franchising and determine if the franchise model is the right fit for you, considering quasi-entrepreneurship and system standards. Gain insights into franchise laws across Canada, including current locations, upcoming areas, and potential gaps. Dive into key franchise documents, such as franchise agreements and disclosure documents, and understand the statutory obligations of franchisors. Discover the importance of protecting intellectual property, maintaining system uniformity, and addressing potential disputes. Learn about trademarks, incorporation benefits, privacy policies, and the essential protections needed for franchisees. Uncover critical lease, renewal, transfer, and termination considerations. Don't miss this opportunity to equip yourself with valuable legal knowledge for successful franchising.

 

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Understand the different types of franchising and determine if the franchise model aligns with your business goals and aspirations.
  2. Explore of key franchise documents, including franchise agreements and disclosure documents, and comprehend the statutory obligations for franchisors.
  3. Evaluate the essential legal protections needed for both franchisors and franchisees, such as intellectual property, system uniformity, privacy policies, and lease considerations.
Sam Sokoloff
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Sam Sokoloff

1:00 PM ET

Lunch Break

1:30 PM ET

Dive into the story of a successful franchisor who shares their key insights and tips to replicate a business concept while franchising their brand. In this session, the franchisor will share the components of a franchise system, important questions to address, how to develop a franchisee training program, and how to find franchisees with the same vision and goals as the franchisor. They will also address how to make the business concept profitable for franchisees, the franchise concept profitable for a franchisor, how to succeed in unique and growing markets, finding ideal real estate, and much more.

2:15 PM ET

Before you decide to franchise your business, it’s important to know the various costs you’re responsible for that will determine whether you sink or swim. This session will explore the key factors that contribute to a strong and successful franchise system. Identify essential components, including site and franchisee selection, the value equation, credit history, financial strength, and ongoing monitoring and support of franchisees. Gain an understanding of the financial implications for both franchisors and franchisees and discover what characteristics franchisors should seek in potential franchisees. Learn about the valuable role banks play in the franchise financing process and the challenges and options available for financing. Understand the expectations and guidelines set by lenders and uncover the general rules for securing franchise financing.

Learning Outcomes:

  1. Recognize the key elements that contribute to a strong and successful franchise system and how to implement them effectively.
  2. Understand the financial implications for both franchisors and franchisees in a franchise system, including financing options and lender expectations.
  3. Analyze the criteria and characteristics franchisors should look for in potential franchisees and the role of banks in adding value to the franchise financing process.

2:45 PM ET

One of the most important elements of building your franchise system is establishing a strong financial foundation. This session explores the financial aspects of franchising, covering everything from initial investment to ongoing financial management. Learn about the do’s and don’ts of franchise finance, key documents and processes, and best practices for maintaining financial health in your franchise system.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Examine key components of Financial Plans:
    • Understand how to estimate start-up costs and manage working capital.
    • Learn to create detailed financial plans and projections.
  2. Evaluate Financial Management Practices:
    • Best practices for financial reporting, cash flow management, and budgeting.
    • Maintain financial compliance and manage tax obligations.
  3. Ensure Legal and Regulatory Compliance:
    • Comply with financial disclosure requirements in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
    • Prepare and present required financial information.
Lyn Little
Partner
BDO Canada
Lyn Little

3:15 PM ET

Join a successful marketing expert who will offer attendees tips and advice for the marketing process of their franchise. In this session, you will learn what strategies you need to think of to create a successful franchise that will make a good impression on potential franchisees and their customers. Learn the key elements of creating a strong brand, including name, logo, message, personality, and experience. Understand the importance of a brand style guide and trademarks for brand consistency and legal protection. Differentiate between national and local marketing, as well as franchise recruitment marketing and consumer marketing. Discover strategies to promote local marketing and engage franchisees. Finally, learn how to establish effective online listings and social media systems and procedures for your franchise.

Learning Outcomes

  1. Identify the key elements of creating a strong brand and the importance of brand consistency and control.
  2.  Understand trademarks and their significance in protecting your brand.
  3. Review different marketing approaches, including national vs. local marketing and franchise recruitment marketing vs. consumer marketing.

3:45 PM ET

Closing Remarks

Sam Sokoloff
Partner
Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP
Sam Sokoloff