Thinking of owning your own business but don’t know where to start? The Franchise Expo Midwest, Rosemont, USA could be the game-changing event you’ve been looking for. Whether you’re dreaming of running a café, a fitness studio, a pet grooming shop, or even an FMCG-focused outlet, this expo is where ideas meet real opportunities. It’s designed for aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone interested in franchising.
This is not just another trade show—it’s a hands-on experience where you get to explore hundreds of franchises, attend live seminars, and talk directly to the people behind the brands.
What Is Franchise Expo Midwest?
The Franchise Expo Midwest is one of the top franchising events in the central U.S. It brings together franchisors from all over the country, along with experts who can help you understand the ins and outs of franchise ownership. You’ll find everything from household-name brands to new and fast-growing concepts that are looking for franchise partners in your area.
Whether you’re looking to invest, start small, or even buy into a multi-unit opportunity, this expo gives you the tools and connections you need.
When and Where Is It Happening?
📍 Venue:
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
5555 N River Rd, Rosemont, IL 60018, USA
📅 Dates:
October 2–4, 2025
Doors are usually open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Located just minutes from O’Hare International Airport, the venue is super convenient and surrounded by hotels, dining spots, and easy transport options.
Is There an Entry Fee?
🎟️ Ticket Costs:
- Online Early Bird Registration: Around $15–$20
- Walk-In Price: May go up to $30
- Workshop Fees: Most are free, but a few deep-dive sessions may require a small add-on fee
For a small fee, you’re getting access to one of the most valuable business events of the year.
What Can You Expect at the Expo?
You’ll be stepping into a world full of possibility. With hundreds of booths, expert speakers, and interactive displays, the show offers more than just information—it brings the business world to life.
1. Franchise Exhibits from All Industries
Meet with decision-makers from businesses in:
- Fast food and full-service restaurants
- Grocery and convenience stores (FMCG)
- Fitness and wellness centers
- Beauty salons and grooming services
- Home cleaning and repair
- Education and childcare
You can ask about startup costs, franchise support, training programs, required investment, and average returns.
2. Educational Sessions & Panels
Topics are simple, practical, and designed for beginners:
- How to choose the right franchise for your lifestyle
- How to fund and finance your business
- What legal agreements really mean
- Common mistakes new franchisees make—and how to avoid them
- The rise of FMCG-focused franchise models
These sessions are a must for anyone serious about getting into business.
3. Live Q&A with Franchisees
Some brands bring along real franchise owners. This gives you the chance to ask what it’s really like to own and run the business day-to-day.
4. One-on-One Advice
Get personalized advice from franchise coaches, legal advisors, and finance professionals who are there to help you make smart decisions.
Who Should Attend?
This event is perfect for people at all stages of their business journey:
- Beginners with no business experience
- Retirees looking for low-stress income opportunities
- Investors and real estate owners
- Stay-at-home parents looking for part-time models
- Business owners who want to expand into franchises
You don’t need to have it all figured out—this expo is here to guide you.
Why Franchise Expo Midwest Is Worth It
If you’re still on the fence, here are a few more reasons to make time for this event:
1. Hands-On Experience
You’ll get to see real products, systems, and even test out some services at the booths.
2. Compare and Decide Faster
With so many brands in one place, it’s easier to compare offerings and narrow down your options quickly.
3. Save Time on Research
Instead of months of online searching, you’ll gather the key facts in just a few hours.
4. Meet Trusted Partners
Find vendors, marketing agencies, equipment providers, and software tools that support your future business.
5. Learn About New Trends
Stay updated on what’s hot in the franchise world—especially in growing FMCG categories.
Hotels Near the Convention Center
The good thing about Rosemont is that everything is close by. Here are a few hotel options near the venue:
- Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel – Just across the street
- DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago O’Hare – Business-friendly and reliable
- Embassy Suites by Hilton – Spacious rooms, good for longer stays
- Aloft Chicago O’Hare – Trendy and modern
- Hyatt Regency O’Hare – A larger hotel with more amenities
All of these are walkable or a very short drive from the venue.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
- Come with questions – Don’t be shy; that’s what the event is for
- Wear comfortable shoes – There’s a lot to see
- Bring a notepad or tablet – You’ll be gathering a lot of info
- Keep an open mind – Some of the best opportunities might not be the ones you expected
- Follow up after the show – Reach out to the brands that stood out to you
Also, try to attend multiple days if you can. It allows more time to explore, attend extra workshops, and go back to booths for deeper chats.
Final Thoughts
The Franchise Expo Midwest in Rosemont is more than just a business expo—it’s a launchpad for your future. Whether you’re ready to invest now or just starting to explore your options, this show gives you the tools, connections, and confidence to move forward.
You’ll meet the people behind the brands. You’ll hear real stories. You’ll learn more in a weekend than you could in months of online research. And who knows—by the end of it, you might walk away with the next big step in your business journey.
No matter your background or budget, this expo shows that becoming a business owner is possible for everyone.
👉 Book your tickets now for Franchise Expo Midwest, Rosemont:
https://www.franchiseexpo.com/franchise-expo-midwest/