BusinessWeek: Future Leaders of Tech
The World Economic Forum's 2008 picks for the hottest startups in health care, biotech, IT, Internet, and energy
Every year, the Geneva-based World Economic Forum honors as "Technology Pioneers" anywhere from 30 to 50 companies offering new technologies or business models that could advance the global economy.
This year's 39 winners in information technology, biotechnology, and clean tech hail from Moscow to Mountain View, Calif.—and lots of places in between. They were chosen by an independent panel of venture capitalists and industry experts. (BusinessWeek Correspondent Jennifer L. Schenker served on the jury.) The selection criteria included innovation, proof of concept, and potential impact, among other criteria.
The class of 2008 includes companies tackling failing eyesight and infertility, trying to help the environment by decreasing emissions, and improving the Internet with better search and access. Some were started by veterans, others by newcomers pursuing a passion.
The Social Workplace
Imaginatik
Winchester, England
Sector: Internet Software
Mark Turrell, CEO
Age: 37
Companies have struggled to capitalize on the growing trend of Web 2.0. Not Imaginatik, a British-based software and consulting firm, which has created a user-friendly package for companies looking to get the best out of their employees. Called Idea Central, the software combines the best of Web 2.0 - mash-ups, social networking, and peer feedback - to help develop new business ideas and increase efficiencies for firms looking to cash in on this new technological craze.