#USA #Atlanta #Franchise Success #STEAM education #Challenge Island

Challenge Island® Continues to Shine in Franchise Landscape

In a triumphant announcement, Challenge Island®, a leader in the global STEM/STEAM education arena, has once again earned a prestigious position on Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 list. This marks the ninth consecutive year for the franchise, known for its innovative educational programs, to be recognized among the industry's finest. Currently boasting over 170 locations across 36 states and Canada, Challenge Island has made significant contributions to the lives of over 5 million children through a variety of engaging programs.

The Franchise 500 ranks franchises based on several crucial criteria, including unit growth, financial stability, operational support, and brand power. Challenge Island's consistent inclusion in this list reflects its unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality education and its successful franchise model, making it a coveted choice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Founded in 2002 by Sharon Duke Estroff, an award-winning educator and internationally recognized education journalist, Challenge Island has crafted a unique place within the $70 billion K-12 STEM/STEAM education market. The franchise doesn't just focus on excellence in education; it combines fun with learning, creating an enriching experience that parents, children, and educators can enjoy together.

In 2025, Challenge Island expanded its offerings with the introduction of Slimetopia® by Challenge Island, a new sub-brand that enhances its existing educational framework while tapping into the growing slime craze. This dual-brand approach empowers franchisees, giving them access to both Challenge Island's traditional offerings and the newly launched Slimetopia, which emphasizes creative and hands-on learning.

Throughout its journey, Challenge Island has garnered numerous accolades that underline its position as a leading franchise. Some notable achievements include:

• - Parents Picks Award for nine consecutive years
• - #50 Ranking on Entrepreneur's Top Franchises Under $100,000
• - Inclusion in Franchise Dictionary Magazine's Top 100 Game Changers
• - Recognition from Franserve as one of the Frantastic Brands
• - Acknowledgment in Entrepreneur's Hottest Franchise Trends
• - Presentation of the Women of Wonder Award to its founder

The franchise's innovative, screen-free and collaborative learning approach has captivated the attention of educators and parents alike. Revamping traditional STEM education, Challenge Island ensures children develop soft skills necessary for the future, while simultaneously engaging in a fun and imaginative environment.

To comprehend the profound impact Challenge Island has had, consider these figures:

• - 170+ Locations across the United States and Canada
• - 5 Million Kids have participated in its programs
• - Collaborations with 20,000 Schools and Community Organizations
• - 3 Bestselling STEAM Adventure Books available in stores and libraries
• - 12 Parents Picks Awards recognizing its contributions to children's education

In celebration of this remarkable journey, Estroff reflects on the franchise's growth: “Through the power of franchising and the incredible dedication of our franchisees, we’ve been able to reach more kids than I ever imagined possible. It’s an honor to be recognized by Entrepreneur for nine straight years, a testament to our model’s strength and versatility.”

As Challenge Island continues to grow and innovate, it remains committed to its mission of inspiring the next generation of thinkers, creators, and innovators through quality education and engaging experiences. For more information about this trailblazing franchise and how it is reshaping the future of education, visit Challenge Island.