Startups 100 2021: Entries now closed

Entries for the longest running index of the UK’s best new businesses have now closed. We're reviewing entries and will announce the Startups 100 2021 in early October

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This page is for our previous Startups 100 campaign. Click here to learn more about the Startups 100 Index 2023.

The Startups 100 was created thirteen years ago to celebrate the achievements of the most exciting, disruptive, and successful startups across the UK. Since then, the index has gone from strength to strength, serving as a promotional launchpad for such national success stories as Monzo, Deliveroo, and Not On The High Street.

Fast forward to today, and the unveiling of the Startups 100 has become an important event in the business calendar, with businesses from all over the UK applying from various industries, ranging from finance to food, tech to toilet paper, and recruitment to real estate.

Entries for this year's ranking have now closed. 

Why should I apply for the Startups 100?

Expose your business to nationwide media coverage – the Startups 100 index is frequently picked up by major publications such as Forbes, Insider, and City A.M.

Attract investors – investment firms are always on the hunt for the next exciting business venture. What better way to grab their attention than by featuring in the Startups 100?

Grow your customer base – the Startups 100 is an ideal opportunity to showcase your company’s capabilities and advertise your success, attracting clients and collaborators from across the UK.

Expand your business network and join a community of Startups – the Startups 100 Index isn’t just about celebrating the best small businesses in the UK. It's also an opportunity to grow a community of like-minded entrepreneurs and business owners who support and advocate for each other.

Am I eligible for the Startups 100?

To be eligible for the Startups 100 2021, your business must be UK-based, privately owned, and have launched on or after 1st January 2016.

Your company will be judged based on the following criteria:

  • An innovative USP
  • Exceptional founders
  • Employee numbers and contribution to the company
  • Amount of funding raised, or impressive organic growth
  • Traction to date, including current financials
  • Potential for growth
  • Global ambitions

How do I apply?

Applying for the Startups 100 is easy and totally free!

To enter, all you have to do is complete the entry form, which asks you a number of straightforward questions about your business and its founders.

To help you complete the form quickly, be sure to have the below information readily available:

  • Financials – including last years figures and this years projections.
  • Impact of the pandemic on your business.
  • A short description of your business, and why it stands out.
  • Founder details.

If you have any questions regarding the entry form, don't hesitate to contact us!

Please share this announcement with friends, family, and colleagues, and help spread the word – if you know a startup business that deserves to be on this year's index, get them to apply. 

If you have any questions regarding the Startups 100 2021, feel free to drop us an email, or reach out to us on our social channels.

Written by:
Ross has been writing for Startups since 2021, specialising in telephone systems, digital marketing, payroll, and sustainable business. He also runs the successful entrepreneur section of the website. Having graduated with a Masters in Journalism, Ross went on to write for Condé Nast Traveller and the NME, before moving in to the world of business journalism. Ross has been involved in startups from a young age, and has a keen eye for exciting, innovative new businesses. Follow him on his Twitter - @startupsross for helpful business tips.
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