How to write a successful Most Innovative Companies application

Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies is our flagship franchise and one of our most eagerly awaited editorial projects each year. To determine honorees, our editorial team spends months evaluating organizations that are driving progress across industries and around the world. We track their performance, compare them to competitors, and assess their impact within broader industry and societal trends. The final list serves as both a definitive snapshot of innovation today and a road map for what’s next. Here’s what we’re looking for:

Fresh innovation

Most Innovative Companies is not a lifetime achievement award. We’re interested in what’s new. Tell us about products, services, or strategies introduced in the past year. We also welcome news of upcoming launches. If something is under embargo, simply note that in your application. This is your chance to get on our radar early.

Measurable impact

We want to see that your innovation is making a difference. Share the metrics you use internally to gauge success—whether it’s revenue growth, user adoption, engagement, or other KPIs. If any data is confidential, just flag it in the submission.

The big picture

We recognize companies that are tackling major challenges and reshaping industries, culture, or society. Show us how your innovation moves your field forward—and how it connects to larger global or cultural trends.

Editorial opportunity

Each application is carefully reviewed by our editorial team, often by multiple editors. Beyond informing the Most Innovative Companies list, these submissions help shape our editorial coverage year-round. We frequently pursue additional stories based on what we learn here. In other words, this is a unique opportunity to introduce your company and tell your story directly to Fast Company’s editors—in your own words.

We’re accepting MIC applications through October 3.

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