Is your business one of Wales' Hot 100?

The search is on to find Wales’ brightest entrepreneurs in the fifth Wales Hot 100 competition. Economic development relies on a steady stream of new firms to develop products, processes and services that become, in some instances, world-beaters.

The Western Mail, in association with the University of Glamorgan’s Business School, today launch their search for 100 young and ambitious companies.

The Hot 100 aims to identify some of the most exciting young ventures in Wales and celebrate entrepreneurship by identifying the fastest growing start-ups.

According to Wil Williams, Julie Gould and Andrew Crawley, who manage the Hot 100 survey for the Glamorgan Business School, this research is essential to fully understand the dynamic economic landscape of Wales today.

The Hot 100 is based on the fastest growing companies in Wales 2007–08 to 2008–09, measured by percentage increase in turnover.

To be eligible for this year’s Hot 100, your company must fulfil the following criteria:

• Your business must be based in Wales
• The business must have been founded after January 1, 2004
• The founder(s) must be actively involved in daily operations of the business
• Annual 2008–09 sales must have exceeded £100,000
• The business must not have been included in the Hot 100 in the previous three years

Wil Williams, principal lecturer at the University of Glamorgan Business School said: "Glamorgan Business School views the Hot 100, along with the School’s support of the Top 300 survey, fundamental to the university’s engagement with the wider business community and in particular, high growth organisations."

“Supporting Welsh businesses and providing for their needs is at the heart of the University of Glamorgan’s Business School."

For a full list of the 100 for 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008, visit http://bus.glam.ac.uk/hot100/ You can also apply and download an application form at the site.

Please provide a copy of your latest financial statements to support these figures. Entries must be received no later than August 24, 2009.

Completed applications can be sent by post, faxed or emailed to: Julie Gould, University of Glamorgan Business School, Pontypridd, CF37 1DL; fax: 01443 482 380; tel: 01443 482 323