13:30 ETLIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY RANKED FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR ON FINANCIAL TIMES AMERICAS' FASTEST GROWING COMPANIES 2026 LIST

The Recognition Highlights the Brand's Robust and Steady Growth Across the United States , /PRNewswire/ -- Lightbridge Academy, Innovators in Educational Child Care® and one of the fastest-growing early childhood education franchises with over 200 centers either open or in development, has been featured in Financial Times' Americas' Fastest Growing Companies 2026 list at #194, marking the second consecutive year the brand has been included in the ranking. Lightbridge Academy is proud to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing companies in the country and is focused on enriching more communities with a nurturing approach to child development, empowering working families, and inspiring growth through innovative education. "We are incredibly honored to be recognized in Financial Times Americas' Fastest Growing Companies 2026 list," said Gigi Schweikert, Chief Executive Officer of Lightbridge Academy. "This recognition is a testament to the dedication of our franchisees, our staff, and the families who trust us to care for and educate their children. Our growth is driven by a relentless focus on delivering exceptional early childhood education, investing in our team, and equipping our franchisees with the tools and support they need to thrive. As we continue to expand our footprint, we remain grounded in our mission to ensure every child in our care has the foundation they need to learn, grow, and flourish." The Americas' Fastest Growing Companies 2026 ranking identifies organizations that achieved the strongest revenue growth between 2021 and 2024. Companies were evaluated based on having a revenue of at least $100,000 generated in 2021, a revenue of at least $1,500,000 generated in 2024, and for the company to operate as an independent organization. Data was collected through official sources like publicly available earning presentations, investor relations, websites, and annual reports. This latest recognition is announced as Lightbridge Academy has received multiple distinguished industry accolades for the brand. Most recently, Lightbridge Academy earned a place in the 2026 Inc. Regionals: Northeast list, received the Franchise Business Review's Franchise Satisfaction Award, and ranked #129 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 list. These awards highlight Lightbridge Academy's ongoing commitment to empowering its franchisees, supporting the communities it serves, and providing phenomenal opportunities for families. As a proven and growing franchise model, Lightbridge Academy continues to attract investors and operators seeking a rewarding and impactful business venture. To schedule a tour and learn more about Lightbridge Academy's early childhood education programs, visit LightbridgeAcademy.com. Learn more about franchise opportunities at LightbridgeAcademy.com/Franchise/ ABOUT LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMYEstablished in 1997, the company was founded as a family business based on core values and a Circle of Care philosophy that places equal importance on the needs of children, their families, teachers, center owners and the community. Lightbridge Academy, Innovators in Educational Child Care®, provides quality early education and child care programs to children aged six weeks through Kindergarten. The company currently has over 200 child care centers either open or in development throughout Arizona, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and Wisconsin. The Lightbridge Promise also leads the industry as the Gold Standard for health & safety in the child care industry. In 2026, Lightbridge Academy was awarded the Franchise Business Reviews Franchisee Satisfaction Award and ranked #129 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 list. In 2025, the brand ranked in Entrepreneur's list of Top Brands for Multi-Unit Owner, was featured on Franchise Times Fast & Serious list, and ranked #248 in Franchise Times Top 400 list. For more information or to schedule a center tour, visit LightbridgeAcademy.com. SOURCE Lightbridge Academy