Entrepreneurs will find hundreds of proven business ideas. Among companies exhibiting will be Apollo Blinds, BB's Coffee and Muffins, Calbarrie, Dent Wizard, Godfather's Pizza, Ladies Workout Express, Lasertech, Revive, Sign-A-Rama Ireland and The Streats Franchising - franchises to suit every interest and skill set.

Supported by the British Franchise Association (bfa), Ulster Bank and Franchise Ireland magazine, this exciting new initiative features all the expertise that a potential franchisee may require under one roof. It also features free seminars run by the bfa. These seminars, which feature a series of high-profile speakers from the UK franchise industry, will advise on all of the issues involved with running a franchised business.

There will also be all the advice and support anyone might need before they make a decision, with franchising experts from banks, solicitors, accountants and the bfa on hand ready to give advice.

Entrepreneurs attracted to the event will have the chance to meet face-to-face with directors and senior managers of leading franchisors from Ireland and the UK and so capitalise on the superb opportunities north and south of the Irish border and in the UK. Established franchisees will also be present to give potential investors a clear insight into the reality of being a franchisee and running a successful franchise.

The Growing Your Own Business Showcase & Conference The Growing Your Own Business Showcase & Conference will be incorporated within The Franchise Exhibition in Belfast.

The seminars will feature high profile keynote speakers, well-known business owners and experts on the issues that entrepreneurs face in building a business, while the showcase will include companies offering services that help a business to develop. Not only many leading franchisors, but also thousands of enterprising visitors are expected to capitalise on the opportunities rapidly opening in the area. This new initiative, prompted by tremendous interest in and demand for franchises in the area, is set to be a great success. The Franchise Exhibition in Belfast is organised by Venture Marketing Group (VMG) organisers of the UK's leading franchise exhibitions, which already runs five highly successful industry leading events in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Dublin.

David Tuck, Franchise Sales Manager at VMG, said: "Northern Ireland offers superb opportunities for both franchisors and franchisees. This new event should be a great success for everyone."