Nancy Bigley Receives International Franchise Association’s Crystal Compass Award

The Little Gym is an enrichment and physical development center for children ages four months through 12, and is part of the children’s franchise growth-focused platform Unleashed Brands. Bigley was named CEO and Brand President of The Little Gym last October to focus on growing the brand and give more opportunities to families for their kids to learn, play and grow.

“Nancy has made an incredible mark on franchising, and her leadership is taking the industry to new levels,” said Matthew Haller, President and CEO of the International Franchise Association. “With over 25 years’ experience in franchising across a variety of brands and sectors, Nancy understands the value of the franchise business model and the positive impact it can have on the lives it touches.”

The Crystal Compass Award was established in 2001 and presented at the Annual Leadership Conference at IFA’s 62nd Annual Convention in San Diego. The Award was established to recognize women and men for extraordinary leadership in franchising within their companies, the franchising industry, or their own communities.

“I am beyond grateful to receive such a prestigious honor amongst my well-respected peers,” said Bigley. “This award signifies the culmination of my hard work and dedicated journey in the world of franchising. Success is never achieved alone. Thus, I’d like to thank everyone who has been a part of my career journey and helped me along the way, including the IFA. I am also thankful to the Women’s Franchise Committee for acknowledging me for this very special recognition.”

Prior to joining The Little Gym, Bigley led Twist Brands, which includes Painting with a Twist, Color Me Mine and Chesapeake Ceramics. She joined the company in 2018 after Painting with a Twist acquired competitor Bottle & Bottega, the company she co-founded and grew to 27 studios. A veteran of the franchise industry for 25+ years, Bigley has a strong background in franchise operations and executive leadership having worked with Dunkin’ Brands, American Leak Detection and The Dwyer Group prior to her time in the paint and sip industry of franchising.

Own a rewarding business and help children develop skills for life with The Little Gym, the world's largest children's motor skill development franchise.