The Los Angeles Convention Center will soon host Franchise Expo West, an opportunity for small business and entrepreneurs from a wide range of backgrounds and ethnicities to get on the fast track to business ownership.

Throughout the three days, expo-goers are encouraged to take advantage of an event designed to energize entrepreneurial spirit. Attendees will have the opportunity to jump in at the ground level with highly reputable franchise concepts and meet face-to-face with executives from more than 200 proven franchise brands.

The top five franchises by established growth in 2017 include personal services, quick-service restaurants, full-service restaurants, retail products services, and business services – all of which will be represented at the expo at investments starting as low as $10,000.

Los Angeles is driven by more than its famed entertainment industry as it continues to draw in new companies, attract talented workers, and promote business ownership and franchise expansion. The region has unmatched creative, design, manufacturing, and export capabilities and is poised to add more than 650,000 jobs this year and next, pushing down the current unemployment rate by nearly 2%.

Attendees are encouraged to participate in the more than 60 free educational seminars and five in-depth workshops on a variety of topics such as “The A to Z’s of Buying a Franchise,” “How to Start a Business in Los Angeles,” “Franchising Your Business,” and “Choosing the Right Franchise."

Last year, nearly 60% of Franchise Expo West attendees were interested in purchasing a franchise and of those who already were business owners, approximately 72% were also interested in franchise opportunities.

In addition, a special seminar hosted by VetFran titled “Opportunities for Veterans in Franchising” will encourage military veterans’ involvement in franchising.

The Franchise Expo West will be held Nov. 2 through Nov. 4. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $20 at the door.

Those who register online and use promo code "CKPR" can receive a complimentary pass to attend the show. On-site registration is also available, but pre-registration is recommended.

The Los Angeles Convention Center is located at 1201 S. Figueroa St.