Rising Brands Awards
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About the Rising Brands Awards
The Rising Brands Awards is a first-of-its-kind program, so it’s natural to have questions about how it works, what it costs, and what your brand stands to gain. Below are answers to the questions we hear most often. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, reach out to our team directly and we’ll be happy to walk you through it.
What are the Rising Brands Awards?
The Rising Brands Awards is FBR’s newest recognition program, created specifically for emerging franchise systems that are not yet eligible for FBR’s standard awards lists. It gives brands with 3 to 9 franchisees a chance to earn third-party validated recognition based on real franchisee satisfaction data, at the stage of growth when that credibility matters most. Award-winning brands are featured on FBR’s Rising Brands Awards landing page and can choose to amplify their recognition with a Brand Spotlight feature post.
Why did FBR start the Rising Brands Awards?
Most of the brands we work with are large, established franchise systems but some of the most important work in franchising is happening at emerging brands. These are the brands shaping their culture, their support model, and their franchisee relationships in real time. Decisions made now will define what kind of franchisor they become. The Rising Brands Awards is our way of meeting those brands where they are. The program helps emerging franchisors learn the value of measuring satisfaction early, validates their progress with the same third-party rigor we apply to the industry’s biggest names, and recognizes the ones doing exceptional work for their franchisees. We believe great emerging brands deserve recognition too, and the franchisees considering them deserve to know who’s earning it.
Who is eligible for the Rising Brands Awards?
The Rising Brands Awards is open to franchise brands with between 3 and 9 franchisees that have been operating for at least 6 months. To participate, brands must complete FBR’s Snapshot Survey. If your system has grown beyond 10 franchisees, you are no longer in the early-stage window, but you qualify for FBR’s broader awards programs.
How does FBR determine who makes the Risng Brands Awards list?
Awards are based on franchisee satisfaction data collected through FBR’s Snapshot Survey. FBR uses the same validated methodology it has applied across hundreds of franchise systems for more than 20 years. Brands that meet the satisfaction threshold earn a spot on the Rising Brands Awards list. Not every participating brand will make the list, which is what makes the recognition meaningful.
What does my brand receive if it makes the Rising Brands Awards list?
All award-winning brands are featured on the Rising Brands Awards landing page on franchisebusinessreview.com and receive use of the official Rising Brands Awards badge and seal. Brands that make the list are also eligible to upgrade to a Brand Spotlight, which includes a custom feature post published on FBR’s website and a more prominent placement on the awards page linking directly to your brand’s story.
When will award winners be announced?
The Rising Brands Awards list publishes in December 2026. Qualifying brands will be notified before the public announcement.
Ready to See How Your Rising Brand Stacks Up?
Register now to join the ranks of franchises recognized by FBR as the best of the best.
The deadline for the 2026 Rising Brands Awards is July 30, 2026.
Join the Conversation That’s Powering Better Franchise Operations and Culture
Austin, TX | October 28-30, 2026
Looking to connect with other HR and operations leaders who truly understand the unique challenges of franchising? Join us at Summit, Franchise Business Review’s annual conference designed specifically for the people driving culture, performance, and growth across franchise systems. From candid conversations to practical takeaways, Summit offers a rare opportunity to dig into what’s really working (and what’s not) when it comes to supporting franchisees and their teams. If you’re ready to walk away with fresh ideas, peer connections, and real strategies you can use immediately, this is the event for you. Register now and be part of the conversation.
