Mass. Franchise & Self Employment Showcase could be the first step towards your next career move. The 5th Annual Franchise Showcase will have some of the nation's fastest growing franchises on display, from many industries and sectors, for would-be business owners to learn what it takes to be in a franchise concept.
Hosting the Franchise Showcase is The Entrepreneur's Source (TES), and The Enterprise Center at Salem State College. The event is Wednesday, May 21st at the Boston Peabody Marriott, 8A Centennial Dr.(exit 28 off of Rte. 128.)
The free, one-day showcase opens to the public at noon and runs until 7:00 p.m. TES business and career coaches will be on-hand to answer questions people have when considering business ownership.
"The event offers a great place to get real information about the plethora of business options available to those with an interest in becoming an entrepreneur," said Michael Harrington, regional developer for TES.
"Education and information, and also factoring in your specific goals, needs and desired lifestyle, are critical to making the right business decision," he added.

This Franchise Showcase is a great opportunity to share our mission, which is to work with start-up and existing small business in Massachusetts," says Christine Sullivan, director of The Enterprise Center. "With franchising being an alternative start-up option, we are happy to co-sponsor this event with TES because it enables people to learn more the franchising opportunities," she added.

Anthony Beaulieu and Chuck Courtemanche are now proud owners of a Maui Wowi franchise after attending the 2007 Franchise Showcase. "At the Showcase, we were able to do a lot of research and connect with a TES Business Coach who presented a number of business concepts for us to consider," says Anthony. "We were then taken through a discovery process ensuring we were making a smart decision," he added.

The Showcase offers attendees a chance to speak one-on-one with many franchise representatives and other business experts to gain a better understanding of the many different concepts available, and how to confidently move into your new career.

Throughout the afternoon, there will be two panel discussions from both business experts and current franchise owners providing advice and counsel for aspiring entrepreneurs. Moderating the panels will be Nelson Benton, editor at The Salem News.

The "Ask the Experts" panel will be held at 2:30 pm and consist of member from the following organizations:
The Enterprise Center - Small business support organization;
SCORE - Business counseling, mentoring and training organization;
NAWBO - National Association of Women Business Owners;
Benetrends - How to finance a business by leveraging retirement funds, without creating taxes or penalties; and,
Sigman Law Office - Legal tips for start-ups, including franchise agreements, lease issues and setting up legal entities.

The "Ask the Entrepreneurs" panel will be held at 1:00 pm and will feature business owners who have taken the risk and have become entrepreneurs. Companies represented include:
Sign Works;
Maui Wowi;
Senior Helpers

Admission to the Franchise Showcase is free, however, advanced registration is recommended. For additional questions and to register you can call (888) 524-9901 or visit online at www.franchisenewengland.com