We're proud to share some exciting news: Aqua-Tots Swim School has earned the #6 spot on Entrepreneur Magazine's Top 10 Children's Business Franchises of 2026 — and we couldn't be more honored.
This recognition, drawn from Entrepreneur's comprehensive 2026 Franchise 500® ranking, evaluated franchises across more than 150 data points including costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial stability. Landing in the top 10 among all children's business franchises in the country is a reflection of what our franchise owners, families, and team have built together over the past 35 years.
What This Recognition Means
Entrepreneur's annual industry rankings are among the most respected benchmarks in franchising. Being named a top children's business franchise puts Aqua-Tots in the company of some of the most established and trusted brands serving families across the country. For prospective franchise owners evaluating where to invest, this kind of independent, data-driven recognition matters.
It also reinforces something we've always believed: that a business built around a life-saving mission can be just as strong — if not stronger — than any traditional business model.
A Track Record Built on Purpose
Founded in 1991 and headquartered in the Phoenix area, Aqua-Tots Swim School has grown into the largest international swim school franchise, with more than 180 locations across 14 countries and 90 additional locations currently in development. Each year, our locations deliver more than five million swim lessons to children ages four months to 12 years old, teaching essential water safety skills that last a lifetime.
This Entrepreneur ranking adds to a growing list of accolades that validate our model and mission, including placement on the Franchise 500® list at #86, recognition in Franchise Business Review's Top Franchises for Women, and a #1 ranking in the Recreational category by Franchise Business Review.
Why Aqua-Tots Stands Out
What separates Aqua-Tots from other franchise opportunities in the children's space isn't just growth — it's the combination of purpose and proven business infrastructure. Our franchise owners benefit from:
- 35+ years of industry expertise and a refined, scalable playbook
- Comprehensive training and ongoing support from an in-house team of 35+ industry specialists
- A mission-driven brand with deep community roots and strong parent trust
- State-of-the-art facilities designed for both learning and family comfort
- A global network of franchise owners committed to water safety education
Ready to Make a Splash?
If you've been looking for a franchise opportunity that's both financially rewarding and genuinely meaningful, Aqua-Tots offers both. Being ranked among Entrepreneur's Top 10 Children's Business Franchises of 2026 is further proof that swim education is not just a growing industry — it's one of the most impactful places you can build a business.
To read the full Entrepreneur article, click here.
Ready to learn more about owning an Aqua-Tots Swim School, fill out this contact form and we will be in touch shortly.
