Brands that Matter
Fast Company is excited to introduce a new recognition program: Brands That Matter. This program will showcase brands that are more than the products they sell or the services they provide, that have achieved relevance through cultural impact and social engagement, and whose branding authentically communicates their missions and ideals.Brands from around the world—including the largest multinational conglomerates to small-but-mighty companies—are encouraged to apply. Brands That Matter will recognize the overall best brands, as well as additional honorees on category-specific lists based on region, size, and status. Applications will be judged on relevancy, cultural impact, ingenuity, and business impact.

The entry period for the 2021 Brands That Matter Awards is now closed. Please click here to sign up for future award notifications.

Why Apply

Brand Exposure
Be seen and evaluated by Fast Company editors and reporters.

Publicity
Appear in the November 2021 issue of Fast Company and on FastCompany.com

Recognition
Speaking opportunities at Fast Company events and exclusive invitations to influencer-only events

Exclusivity
Gain entry into this bold community of creative thinkers and professionals

Categories

While every application submitted must be considered for the Brands That Matter list, you may also choose to apply to any of these new categories for an additional fee, increasing your odds of being recognized by Fast Company. Multiple honorees will be named in each category.

Brands That Matter United States

Brands based in the United States that have achieved relevance through cultural impact and social engagement

Brands That Matter International

Brands based outside of the United States that have achieved relevance through cultural impact and social engagement

Company-Size Categories

Be recognized in a special list that compares companies with similar employee counts:
Small (fewer than 100 employees), Midsize (100–999 employees),Large (1,000+ employees)

Customer Categories

Be recognized in a special list that compares organizations with similar target customers or audiences:
Consumer, Enterprise (business-to-business), Nonprofit (not-for-profit or philanthropic)

Current Events

Special recognition for initiating a high-impact response to big events in 2020 such as COVID-19, climate change, racial injustice, and more