# Nearly Frobenius Algebras

## TL;DR

This paper introduces nearly Frobenius algebras, a generalization of Frobenius algebras without traces, exploring their foundational properties and applications in topology, geometry, and representation theory.

## Contribution

It provides the first systematic survey of nearly Frobenius algebras, highlighting their foundational aspects and relevance in various mathematical fields.

## Key findings

- Nearly Frobenius algebras lack traces and co-units.
- They naturally appear in topological contexts.
- Applications include geometry, topology, and representation theory.

## Abstract

In this introductory paper we study nearly Frobenius algebras which are generalizations of the concept of a Frobenius algebra which appear naturally in topology: nearly Frobenius algebras have no traces (co-units). We survey the most basic foundational results and some of the applications they encounter in geometry, topology and representation theory.