About Program - Philadelphia 100 Forum

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A catalyst for the region’s fastest-growing companies.

REVIEW THE APPLICATION CRITERIA & FORM HERE!

Each year, the Philadelphia 100® Forum convenes the leaders behind Greater Philadelphia’s most dynamic privately held businesses—recognizing verified multi-year revenue growth, elevating success stories, and building a peer network that accelerates the next wave of entrepreneurship.

Criteria and program integrity are independently audited; winners must show positive 3-year average revenue growth and at least $250,000 in revenue in the earliest year.

Our Economic Impact

Sustained multi-year growth. Honorees demonstrate verified 3-year average revenue growth, with many regional leaders posting 40–100%+ two-year growth across tech, healthcare, construction, and services.
Long-term momentum. Repeat winners—such as TESCO (14 recognitions) and Curotec (7 consecutive years)—signal durable growth and jobs anchored in our region.

Our Community of Leaders

Peer learning & high-value connections. The Forum’s CEO community meets regularly for meaningful connections, peer learning, and new opportunities, including special events that seed partnerships and growth.
Celebrations that galvanize the ecosystem. Annual awards program and networking events draw business leaders, elevating visibility and deal-flow across the region.

Our Standards & Integrity

Merit-based and audited. Eligibility requires verified private-company status, audited/verified revenue, and consistent year-over-year growth—ensuring the list is a trusted benchmark of excellence.
Hall of Fame recognition. Companies earning the award five years in a row reach Hall of Fame status—celebrating sustained excellence in the region.

The Philadelphia 100 Top Winners have a profound and lasting impact on the Greater Philadelphia and surrounding community. As growth-driven organizations, these leaders create jobs, fuel economic vitality, and invest in the people and neighborhoods they serve. Beyond business success, Top Winners contribute time, talent, and resources to local causes—supporting nonprofits, mentoring emerging leaders, and helping to build a stronger regional ecosystem. Their collective influence reflects a commitment not only to growth, but to responsible leadership and meaningful community engagement across Philadelphia. Here are key ways they standout:

Economic Growth

Winners must demonstrate positive 3-year average revenue growth and earn at least $250,000 in the earliest reported year.
Many honorees report growth rates exceeding 40–60% over 2 years while some reach over 100% growth in a variety of sectors.
Winners have achieved multiple consecutive years of recognition, signaling sustained economic contribution and job creation in the region.

Job Creation & Workforce Development

Companies on the list range from startups to established firms, collectively employing thousands of professionals across Greater Philadelphia.
Growth sectors that are critical for regional employment and innovation.

Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

The Forum fosters peer learning, networking, and collaboration among CEOs and growth-oriented leaders, creating a ripple effect of innovation and mentorship in the local business community.
Membership provides access to strategic partnerships and educational resources, helping businesses scale and thrive.

Community Engagement

Events like the annual awards celebration and networking forums attract hundreds of business leaders, strengthening Philadelphia’s reputation as a hub for entrepreneurship.
Active engagement leads to new business opportunities and collaborations, driving regional economic resilience and growth.

Historical Impact

Since its founding in 1988, the Philadelphia 100 has become a benchmark of excellence, honoring companies like Urban Outfitters and Primavera Systems in its early years—brands that went on to achieve national prominence.
Some companies have been recognized 10+ times, showing the Forum’s role in sustaining long-term success stories.