The Inc. 5000 is an annual ranking published by Inc. magazine that recognizes the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. Companies on the Inc. 5000 list are ranked based on their percentage revenue growth over a three-year period. To qualify, businesses must be privately held, based in the U.S., and have generated at least $100,000 in revenue in the base year. Many notable companies have appeared on the list, including successful startups that have grown into major players in their respective industries.
The list is an expansion of the original Inc. 500, which was first established in 1982. The Inc. 500 featured the 500 fastest-growing privately held companies. It has since evolved into the Inc. 5000, allowing for a broader representation of high-growth companies. Inc. magazine expanded the list in 2007. Each year, the Inc. 5000 is published in August.
What is Inc. 5000?
Inc. 5000 is one of the most authoritative business rankings in the US. In the past, such well-known companies as Microsoft, Meta, Oracle, and Patagonia became its laureates. Being listed in the Inc. 5000 can significantly enhance a company’s visibility, providing credibility and recognition that can lead to further business opportunities.
A bold logo design for Inc. 5000 shows that only the best of the best get to be included on the list. The name is split between two lines, which creates a cohesive look. Such design also allows the magazine to turn it into a round emblem with “America’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies” added around its border. The “Inc.” portion is printed using thick strokes and equally bold slab serifs. The number also features the same stroke fitness. To make the logo look unique, the designers had the “5” printed to look a bit funky as it has the vertical line going on a slight diagonal and cut on a diagonal. Its end is also not cut straight as one would expect. Moreover, some versions feature a multicolor number.
The font used to write “Inc.” somewhat resembles Antique Extra Bold Regular by Wooden Type Fonts. It also has bold, huge slab serifs. However, the letter “c” has the top end cut on a diagonal and uses the same stroke thickness instead of getting thinner on one end.
Typically, the logo is done in a conservative and classic black-and-white color palette. Such color choice gives it a strong and respected appearance. The magazine, though, also has a multicolored design. The red, yellow, and blue colors are added to the logo, specifically the number in the name. Such design aims not only to attract attention but also to show that these are unique companies that are worth the attention.