Facebook has launched fan challenges and custom top fan badges, new features designed to reward loyalty and increase engagement between creators and their audiences.
The fan challenges feature gives creators the ability to set prompts where followers can submit posts or Reels as entries. Participation is already commendable. In the past three months alone, over 1.5 million entries have been submitted, leading to more than 10 million comments and reactions across the platform. Facebook confirmed that the feature is only available to creators with more than 100,000 followers.
Superstars such as Cardi B, Ed Sheeran and J Balvin have been quick to embrace the feature, encouraging their followers to take part and rewarding them with custom recognition. Cardi B’s fans now carry the “Bardi Gang” badge, Sheeran’s community identifies with “Sheerio,” while J Balvin’s supporters proudly display “La Familia.”
Badges are not new on Facebook, but the platform is now offering personalised versions to highlight stronger fan connections. According to Facebook, more than 500 million users worldwide have accepted either a custom badge or a standard top fan badge.
Once accepted, badges appear alongside comments on creator pages and can also be displayed on user profiles.
Fans who consistently engage with posts are most likely to earn these badges. When creators offer customised options, followers are notified and can choose to accept and showcase them.
Facebook explained the update this way: “We’re introducing new ways for you to go from follower to fan, making it easier to connect with and be recognised by the creators you love on Facebook.”
A central hub, known as the fan challenge homepage, has also been created. This serves as a leaderboard where entries with the highest reactions are ranked, giving creators the chance to highlight top-performing content and encouraging wider participation.
Facebook says creators can use these tools to grow campaigns, strengthen communities, and increase visibility. For fans, the updates provide recognition and visibility while offering new opportunities to connect with like-minded users.
The company described the latest update as a way of “making fandom on Facebook even more fun with new features that help you engage with and be recognised by your favourite creators, while connecting with other fans who share your interests.”
