Forbes is currently
conducting a search for "America's Most Promising Companies". Forbes is using a free comprehensive self-assessment survey to
determine how fundable an emerging company really is. All companies receive a free,
12-category qualitative assessment upon completion of the survey. Select
companies however, will receive a spot on the list to be printed in Forbes,
fast-track status for a funding term sheet with TVA Capital and its funding
partners, along with other benefits.
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The companies that Forbes is looking for are:
Less then 5 years old (Incorporation date)
Have sales less then $10M per year
Have less than 50 employees
Have assets less than $1,000,000
The survey ends June 30, 2009.
Click here for more information
Any assessment that an entrepreneur (or any organization) can do is a good idea, as long as the person/organization is honest. This assessment appears to be a valuable tool in determining the viability of an organization for the long term. This is obviously an important aspect of any company. The measure of the strength of the company and the sustainability are imperative. Forbes is providing a useful tool in evaluating these areas.
While this is an important aspect of the entrepreneurial venture, there are other important areas. It might be very exciting to learn that the venture is sustainable, but it may also be very daunting for the entrepreneur to think about future growth. Looking at the personal desires of the entrepreneur is also important. It will be important for entrepreneurs to evaluate their personal goals for their own lives and the life of the company before jumping on an opportunity for more funds.
For those that get back results that were unfavorable, hopefully the assessment will be used to evaluate improvements or to seriously look at the sustainability of the organization. For those that get favorable results, and especially those that "make the list," congrats and job well done.