Author: Tracy Harrison, Managing Director, Deloitte & Touche LLP

For more than 25 years, Deloitte has been honoring the most innovative, fastest-growing public and private technology companies across North America through The Technology Fast 500. In recent years, the list has been dominated by the coasts and Chicago’s mighty tech community consistently remains underrepresented.

Let’s change this together.

I have seen first-hand the high-growth companies that are driving technology and innovation forward in our city. Now it’s time for you and your teams to receive recognition for all that you have achieved. 

  • What is the Deloitte Fast 500? Each year, Deloitte names the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America; recognizing the passion and dedication it takes to be a leader in these ever-changing industries.  
  • Why apply for Fast 500? Being recognized as a winner can increase visibility, brand recognition, and growth opportunities. It can instill pride in your teams and attract the attention of talent, investors, and the business community.
  • What does it take to land on the list? In 2021, winners demonstrated growth rates between 87,037% and 212%.  To apply, businesses must meet the following criteria:
    • Minimum of four years in business with headquarters in North America
    • A growth rate of 75% or greater (FY18-FY21) including base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000 (FY18) and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million (FY21)
    • Proprietary intellectual property or technology sold to customers in products or services that contribute to a majority of the company’s operating revenues
  • Who made the list last year? We proudly recognized 6 winners—including some repeat winners—from Chicago last year. 2021 Chicago Winners included: Shipfusion Inc. (147), LogicGate (152), XSELL Technologies (179), Simplify Healthcare (239), OppFi (335) and Built In (415).
  • Where can we apply? For more about the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 awards, including application criteria and deadlines, visit www.Fast500.com. Applications are open through June 24.

Let’s Get Started
Being a part of the Fast 500 helps our community grow, attracts talent and investment, and challenges us to work harder, think smarter, and dream bigger.

I’m eager to see what great Chicago companies will make us proud this year!

Start your application at Fast500.com | Reach out to our local team with questions

This publication contains general information only and Deloitte is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should it be used as a basis for any decision or action that may affect your business. Before making any decision or taking any action that may affect your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor.

Deloitte shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by any person who relies on this publication.

About Deloitte

Deloitte refers to one or more of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee (“DTTL”), its network of member firms, and their related entities. DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL (also referred to as “Deloitte Global”) does not provide services to clients. In the United States, Deloitte refers to one or more of the US member firms of DTTL, their related entities that operate using the “Deloitte” name in the United States and their respective affiliates. Certain services may not be available to attest clients under the rules and regulations of public accounting. Please see www.deloitte.com/about to learn more about our global network of member firms. Copyright © 2022 Deloitte Development LLC. All rights reserved.

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