Fast 50 FAQs
What is the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Awards Programme?
The Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Awards programme, now in its thirteenth year in Ireland, ranks the 50 fastest-growing technology companies. It covers both public and private companies in all areas of technology, from internet specialists to life sciences, computers to semiconductors, software to telecommunications. The programme is open to companies based in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Can I nominate another company?
Yes, entries can be sent in by the companies themselves or by a third party.
Is there a fee?
No, it is free to nominate yourself or another company.
How does Deloitte calculate the rankings?
We are looking for the speed of growth, so rankings are based on percentage growth in revenue over five years. We do not measure current financial performance or profitability.
How many years has the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Awards Programme been running?
It was launched in the US in 1995, and quickly expanded worldwide. The programme in Ireland began in 1999, making 2012 its thirteenth year.
How do companies qualify for the Deloitte Technology Fast 50 Awards Programme?
- Entrants must have been operating for a minimum of five years, with turnover of at least €50,000 (or at least £34,000 sterling for Northern Ireland companies) for 2007
- Entrants can be public or private companies but the parent company must be headquartered in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland. Subsidiaries or divisions do not qualify
- Each entrant must be a technology company defined as producing technology; manufacturing technology-related products; being technologically intensive or using technology in problem-solving; or devoting a high percentage of effort to the research and development of technology
My company has not been operating for five years, can I still apply?
Yes, if your company has been operating for a minimum of three years and less than five, you may be eligible for our Rising Star category.
What are the criteria for the Rising Star category?
- Entrants must have been operating for a minimum of three years and less than five, with turnover of at least €30,000 (or at least £27,000 sterling for Northern Ireland companies) for 2009
- Entrants can be public or private companies but the parent company must be headquartered in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland. Subsidiaries or divisions do not qualify
- Each entrant must be a technology company defined as producing technology; manufacturing technology-related products; being technologically intensive or using technology in problem-solving; or devoting a high percentage of effort to the research and development of technology
What do companies have to do to enter?
In order to enter the Deloitte Fast 50 programme, companies must provide details of their company’s revenues, from and including, years 2007 to 2011, via the online nomination form which will be available on this website. Each company is also required to provide copies of their financial statements for each of the year ends 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 for verification by Deloitte. The company must also submit a brief company description with their application form.
Do all entrants have to be publicly held?
No, but private companies must provide financial information and supporting documentation such as financial statements.
When is the closing deadline for entries this year?
We will be opening 2012 entries on June 24 2012. The closing deadline is 14 September 2012.
For further information on any aspect of the Fast 50 programme, please do not hesitate to email Patricia O'Sullivan or call her on +353 (1) 407 4817; alternatively you can email Gill Mewha or call her on +44 (0) 28 9053 1186.
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