Inc. Names Exit Factor to Its 2026 List of the Fastest-Growing Private Companies in the Southeast and Founder Jessica Fialkovich to Its 2026 Female Founders 500

Regional growth rankings

Between 2022 and 2024, these 182 private companies, had a median growth rate of 89 percent; by 2024, they'd also added 12,079 jobs and $3.4 billion to the region's economy.

"The honorees on this year's Inc. Regionals list achieved exceptional growth at a time when the odds were against them. Amid inflation, supply chain disruptions, and ongoing economic uncertainty, they didn't just persevere – they innovated, adapted, and thrived. Their resilience made them standouts in their industries and true growth engines in their regions," said Bonny Ghosh, editorial director at Inc.

Female founders recognition

Additionally, Exit Factor's founder Jessica Fialkovich was named to Inc.'s Female Founders list for 2026, an annual list honoring dynamic women business leaders in the United States. The recognition acknowledges founders whose bold ideas, resilience, and execution are shaping the future of their industries.

"Each year, we are increasingly amazed by the extraordinary leaders on our Inc. Female Founders 500 list," says Ghosh. "The honorees on this year's list include innovators in AI, beauty and wellness trendsetters winning devoted fans, and nonprofit leaders making a real impact in their communities. Together, they're showing all of us what trailblazing female leadership looks like."

The 2026 Female Founders honorees collectively generated approximately $12.3 billion in 2025 revenue and $12.2 billion in funding to date, underscoring the economic impact of women-led businesses across sectors.

"Being recognized on both lists is incredibly meaningful because it reflects two sides of the same mission – building a purpose-driven company while helping other entrepreneurs do the same. At Exit Factor, we're focused on empowering business owners to grow stronger, more valuable companies that give them the freedom to exit on their terms. These honors are a testament to our team, our franchise partners, and the business owners we serve every day who are committed to long-term growth, smart strategy, and lasting impact."

Exit Factor is a multi-award-winning brand, recognized last year by Entrepreneur Magazine's 2025 New & Emerging Franchises, Inc.'s Best Workplaces 2025, and 2025 Inc. Power Partners. Fialkovich was also nominated for the Peter Christman Exit Planner of the Year by the Exit Planning Institute.