Startups 100 2027 Opens for Applications

Applications for the 2027 Startups 100 Index opened on 1 September 2026. The list, curated by the team at Startups.co.uk, ranks the UK's 100 most promising new businesses and is free to enter, much like how our own standings rank teams based on performance.

Now in its eighteenth year, the Startups 100 is the UK's longest-running index for businesses founded in the last five years. It aims to showcase exceptional startups to investors, clients, and customers. Past alumni identified by the list include Revolut, Monzo, and Deliveroo.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the Startups 100 Index 2027, a business must meet three criteria. It must be headquartered in the UK, registered with Companies House, and have been incorporated on or after 1 January 2021. Founders of any age or background can apply, and eligible startups can operate in any industry.

How to Apply and Key Dates

The application process requires founders to complete an online form. The deadline for submissions is Friday, 2 October 2026, at 5pm BST. The final list will be published in January 2027.

Applicants need to gather specific information before filling out the form. This includes basic business and founder details, the Companies House number, and the story of the business journey. Partner, client, and investor information is also required, along with funding details and growth statistics, similar to the detailed financial and performance stats we track. The form asks for social impact information, such as data on sustainability or diversity, and a founder image of at least 1MB.

How the Top 100 Are Chosen

The Startups team judges all entries. They use data from the application forms to assign weighted scores based on five key areas.

Judges look for impressive ideas with significant growth potential. Finn Lagun, founder of past winner Pasta Evangelists, advised applicants to focus on storytelling. The way you tell the story is important, Lagun said. Get quotes from all angles, from your team to your partners and suppliers, to demonstrate your impact in an emotive way.

The organisers stress that a lack of major funding or well-known partners should not deter applicants. They consider the business journey and the founder's passion for their mission to be more important.

Ben Freeman, co-founder of the 2026 winner Omnea, highlighted the value of recognition. It's a huge honour to be recognised as the number one startup in the UK by Startups.co.uk, Freeman stated. Another past listed CEO, Melissa Snover of Nourished, said appearing in the index validated her business as a market leader and raised brand awareness.

Applications are submitted via a SurveyMonkey webform. The process is completely free, with no charges for applying or for being listed. Questions can be directed to su100@startups.co.uk.