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

Unlike other awards, the Philadelphia 100 is a merit based program. There is no choosing or selecting. No politics. Only companies that are among the fastest growing, privately held companies in the region are bestowed with the designation of the Philadelphia 100.

The prestige of the Philadelphia 100 reflects proudly on all those affiliated with it. 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, Thomas Gravina and Steven Lagos.