The Business Of Good, Relentless Drive And 9 More Essentials For Fearless Founders

If the pandemic has proven anything, it’s that America’s entrepreneurial spirit is stronger than ever. Despite facing even the most difficult of circumstances, small businesses have remained resilient and determined to succeed. Three-quarters are optimistic about the ability of their businesses to recover and 82% feeling better prepared to handle a future crisis, according to a recent survey by American Express.

With our Next 1000 list, we’re on a year-round mission to shine a spotlight on the ambitious sole proprietors, self-funded shops and pre-revenue startups redefining what it means to build and run a business today. While all have under $10 million in revenue or Series A funding, they all have outsized aspirations and drive.

A panel of top business minds and entrepreneurial superstars joined us in evaluating thousands of nominations hailing from every industry and corner across the U.S. The end result: Our first installment of 250 up-and-coming businesses that have left us inspired and are emblematic of the American Dream.

Hear from our esteemed judges on why they joined forces with Forbes in launching this first-of-its-kind initiative below.  

Jean Case
CEO, Case Impact Network
Chairman, National Geographic Society
“There has never been a more important time to highlight the role that fearless innovators and leaders are making in our world. And that’s why I am so excited to join the judging of the inaugural Forbes Next 1000 list. These founders have created startups and organizations that are transforming the way business and the business of good is done and I look forward to watching each of them closely.”

Ayesha Curry
Entrepreneur, New York Times Best-Selling Author, philanthropist
Founder & CEO, Sweet July
“Recognizing the next generation of entrepreneurs through Forbes Next 1000 has not only been fulfilling but self-motivating to keep redefining the norm and breaking down barriers. It’s inspiring to see a promising list of leaders that all share originality, passion and a deep drive to succeed.”

Carla Harris
Vice Chairman & Managing Director, Morgan Stanley
“I am honored to be a part of this incredible new initiative to spotlight entrepreneurs from diverse regions and backgrounds, highlighting the opportunities their startups bring to the investment community. The Next 1000 is a natural extension to the work we do at Morgan Stanley helping diverse entrepreneurs increase their connections and accelerate their businesses through the Multicultural Innovation Lab, a program I am deeply passionate about, especially during these tumultuous times.”

Mellody Hobson
Co-CEO & President, Ariel Investments
Vice Chairman, Starbucks & board member of J.P. Morgan Chase
“When we empower diverse entrepreneurs, we increase the likelihood that the ‘next big thing’ will address the wide-ranging needs of a global population. My hope is that the faces throughout future issues of Forbes reflect the 330 million diverse Americans driving revenue for these companies.”

Reid Hoffman
Cofounder, LinkedIn
Partner, Greylock
“Silicon Valley has long been a center of gravity for startups, but entrepreneurship knows no boundaries. No matter their geography, background, or area of focus, these entrepreneurs are bound together by a relentless drive to turn their ideas into reality.”

Aileen Lee
Founder & Managing Partner, Cowboy Ventures
Board member, All Raise
“I was so excited to have a chance to learn from and connect with the diverse group of amazing, brilliant next gen entrepreneurs and problem solvers involved in the program.”

Alex Rodriguez
Chairman & CEO A-Rod Corp., World Series Champion & baseball legend
Chairman, Presidente USA (AB-In-Bev)
“I’m so proud to be a part of this initiative and put the spotlight on this incredible group of strong and diverse business-minded people. Growing up, a lot of folks wanted to be the next Michael Jordan or Tiger Woods—but now more than ever, people want to be great entrepreneurs. I’m very passionate about supporting the vision and dreams of the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

Sheryl Sandberg
COO, Facebook
Founder, LeanIn.Org & OptionB.org
“The Next 1000 recognizes some of the brightest entrepreneurs from various backgrounds and industries all over the US. It was an honor to be a part of this inaugural initiative from Forbes. I am so inspired by how the next generation of business leaders in the mid-Atlantic are redefining business amidst the pandemic.”

Russell Wilson & Ciara
Seattle Seahawks quarterback & Super Bowl champion
Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter
“We were so excited when Forbes asked us to be a part of this project because we want to be part in helping the next generation of entrepreneurs build amazing companies. Through Next 1000, we’ll get to give some amazing entrepreneurs their next break. We’re looking forward to being inspired by the passion, creativity and resiliency each of these entrepreneurs brings.”

Lilly Singh
Host, A Little Late with Lilly Singh on NBC
"I started my career on my own, and know how meaningful it is to have support for your vision early on. The Forbes Next 1000 Initiative gives the next generation recognition as they chart their path. These entrepreneurs have the passion and talent to help them face down challenges and change the game too. I'm excited to see them make their way to the top and I'll be cheering them on."