What started as an idea to bring recognition to our region has emerged as a new standard – a standard of excellence.

The Philadelphia 100 is a merit based program. Only companies that are among the fastest growing, privately-held companies are awarded the Philadelphia 100 designation. The integrity of the process and the resulting list
makes the Philadelphia 100 one of the most sought awards in the region.

Started in 1998 by the Entrepreneurs’ Forum of Greater Philadelphia, The Philadelphia Business Journal and the Wharton SBDC, the Philadelphia 100 has recognized some of the region’s finest companies when they were just beginning to emerge: Mothers’ Work, Fiberlink, Urban Outfitters, Forman Mills, Kremer Laser Eye Center, and Primavera Systems, just to name a few.

This program culminates in a gala event every fall where the fastest growing, privately held companies are recognized. The event is one of the City’s premier business events, marked by delicious hors d’oeuvres and dinner, open bar, great networking, “the countdown”, Hall of Fame inductions, Top 10 Fastest Growing Company Awards and the keynote speaker address. Some of the region's leading entrepreneurs and esteemed dignitaries have graciously agreed to be our keynote speaker, including Ed Rendell, Brian Tierney, Michael Emmi, Carol Ammon and Steven Lagos.