No Rock County companies on Inc.com list of fastest growing companies
News August 28, 2025

No Rock County companies on Inc.com list of fastest growing companies

BELOIT — An annual list of the 5,000 fastest growing private companies in the United States included 291 companies from Wisconsin and Illinois — but none from the Stateline Area or Rock County.

**Rock County Misses Out: No Local Companies Make Inc. 5000 List**

Beloit, WI – The annual Inc. 5000 list, a prestigious ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in the United States, has been released, showcasing impressive entrepreneurial success across the nation. While Wisconsin and Illinois boasted a combined total of 291 companies making the cut, the Stateline Area, particularly Rock County, was noticeably absent from this year's list.

The Inc. 5000 provides a snapshot of the most dynamic and rapidly expanding businesses in the country, highlighting their revenue growth over a three-year period. Inclusion on the list is a significant achievement, offering companies increased visibility, credibility, and potential investment opportunities.

The absence of Rock County companies raises questions about the local business climate and the factors hindering rapid growth. While the area is known for its strong manufacturing base and dedicated workforce, it seems that none of the local businesses experienced the exceptional growth rates necessary to qualify for the Inc. 5000 ranking this year.

The list serves as a benchmark for entrepreneurial success, and its absence in Rock County could prompt local economic development organizations and business leaders to analyze the current challenges and opportunities. Understanding why other regions in Wisconsin and Illinois are fostering faster-growing companies could provide valuable insights for improving the business environment in the Stateline Area.

Possible factors contributing to the lack of Rock County representation could include challenges in attracting and retaining talent, limited access to capital for expansion, or slower adoption of innovative technologies and business models. The absence from the Inc. 5000 list doesn't necessarily indicate a decline in Rock County's overall economic health, but it does highlight the need for a renewed focus on fostering high-growth potential businesses within the region. The local business community will likely be looking at strategies to encourage innovation, support entrepreneurship, and attract investment to ensure Rock County companies are well-positioned to compete on a national level and potentially appear on future Inc. 5000 lists.
Category: Politics