Cotton + Allen is sponsor of Business First Fast 50

For the eighth consecutive year, Cotton + Allen has been the presenting sponsor of the Business First Fast 50, an award given to Greater Louisville's fastest-growing privately held companies.

"As a charter sponsor, we have recognized from the beginning how such a program benefits area businesses," said Gwen Tilton, president of Cotton + Allen. "For eight years running, we have enjoyed the opportunity to meet the owners of the fastest growing private companies in our area and to sponsor an event that celebrates their success."

There are four requirements for a company to be eligible for the Fast 50, including:

• the company must be independent, for-profit and privately held;
• must have an average of at least $1 million in revenue for the three most recent years;
• must be headquartered in the 13 surrounding county area known as Greater Louisville; and
• must have at least a three-year operating sales history.

Once qualified, companies are ranked in order of their percentage of top line growth. That computation of top line growth is measured over the three-year period ending in the 2006 year. Profitability of a business is not a factor in the rankings - only top line growth.

This year, the awards luncheon was held on October 18 at the Kentucky International Convention Center. In addition, Cotton + Allen hosted a private reception on October 9 at Churchill Downs for Fast 50 winners, their guests and event sponsors.