IFA Names 2026 Franchisees of the Year

By: International Franchises Association
Published: September 9th, 2026

The International Franchise Association named 89 individuals as 2026 Franchisees of the Year for being outstanding franchise owners with excellence in entrepreneurship, community outreach, workforce development, and service to others. Top franchisees from IFA member brands across industries and communities around the country will be honored at the IFA26 Advocacy Summit Sept. 14-16 in Washington, D.C. IFA will also name one franchise owner as the recipient of the new IFA Franchisee Cornerstone Award, selected among the group at the event.

"Franchisees of the Year demonstrate what franchising is all about: individuals who have committed their lives and careers to the betterment of those around them, building something bigger than themselves," said Matt Haller, president and CEO of the IFA. "Through their leadership, they create jobs and build careers, give back to their communities, and support other franchisees, all while exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of franchising. We are proud to recognize these individuals with one of IFA's highest honors and celebrate their commitment to making a difference both within their business and to those around them."

Nominated by their parent brand, the Franchisee of the Year recipients are selected for being leading franchise owners for their community involvement, fostering a strong workforce, assisting their fellow franchisees when called upon, and embodying the entrepreneurial spirit. Their outstanding performance and contributions help strengthen not only their business but also the entire franchise business model.

There are approximately 832,000 franchise establishments across the U.S., providing nearly 8.8 million direct jobs and generating more than $907 billion in economic output. According to Oxford Economics, franchising on average provides higher wages and better benefits than nonfranchised businesses, as well as greater entrepreneurial opportunities to minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented communities.

The recipients will be honored at a luncheon on Sept. 15 and throughout the IFA26 Advocacy Summit in Washington, D.C.

The full list of 2026 IFA Franchisees of the Year is below:

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