The Business Journals Inno Madness

Overview

Inno Madness is a bracket-style, reader-voted competition run by American City Business Journals’ local “Inno” publications (such as Chicago Inno, St. Louis Inno, etc.) that highlights innovative, fast-growing startups and tech companies in each market. It is positioned more as an editorial spotlight and engagement contest than a traditional awards program, with companies advancing through rounds based on public voting. Startups pursue it for local visibility, media coverage, and credibility within their regional tech ecosystem rather than for a formal, peer-reviewed ranking.

Eligibility Requirements

• Company must be a startup or tech-focused business active in the local Inno market (e.g., headquartered in or with a significant presence in that city/region)
• Company must be nominated or selected during the 2026 Inno Madness nomination period for its local market
• Must be willing to participate in editorial coverage and public, bracket-style voting hosted by the local Business Journal/Inno site