Fortune 40 Under 40
| Fortune 40 Under 40 | |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Presented by | Fortune |
| First award | 1999 |
| Website | fortune |
The Fortune 40 Under 40 is an annual list published by Fortune magazine, recognizing influential young leaders under the age of 40 across various industries, including business, technology, finance, healthcare, media, and politics. The list highlights individuals who demonstrate significant impact, innovation, and leadership in their respective fields.[1] Initially launched in 1999 as a ranking of wealth during the dot-com boom, the list evolved in 2009 into a subjective ranking based on power and influence.[2]
History
The Fortune 40 Under 40 was first introduced in 1999, focusing on the wealth of young entrepreneurs during the dot-com boom. From 1999 to 2003, it ranked individuals based on their financial success. In 2009, the list was restructured to emphasize influence and impact, recognizing leaders in diverse sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and politics.[1] The list has since become a prestigious recognition for young professionals, with editions in various regions, including the United States and India.[2]
Application Process
The nomination process for the Fortune 40 Under 40 varies by region and organizer but generally involves a two-step procedure. Nominees must be under 40 years old by a specified date (e.g., September 30, 2025, for the 2025 class in some programs).[3]
- Nominatio*: Anyone can nominate a candidate, including colleagues, mentors, or clients, by submitting basic information such as the nominee's name, job title, contact details, and a brief explanation of their suitability. Self-nominations are not typically allowed, though some regional programs may permit them.[3]
- Nominee Submission: Nominees receive an email with a link to an online form, which they must complete by a deadline (e.g., September 30, 2025, for some 2025 programs). The form requires detailed information about career achievements, educational background, community involvement, and professional affiliations, along with references from work and community activities.[4]
Entries are subject to verification, and misrepresentation of achievements can lead to disqualification. All submitted materials, including photographs, must be copyright-free for use in print and online.[3]
Criteria
The selection criteria focus on three main areas:
- Business Accomplishments (50%): Nominees are evaluated on their leadership and the growth of their organizations, supported by quantitative metrics like revenue or scale.[5]
- Professional Expertise (25%): Candidates must demonstrate outstanding expertise in their field, evidenced by awards, speaking engagements, or media coverage.[5]
- Community Involvement (25%): Active participation and leadership in community or charitable activities are critical, often distinguishing recipients from other nominees.[5]
Judges, typically comprising editors, industry experts, and community leaders, score nominees on a 40-point system. Nominees may be disqualified for dishonorable conduct, such as criminal convictions or falsified information.[5]
Comparison with Forbes 30 Under 30
The Fortune 40 Under 40 is often compared to the Forbes 30 Under 30, which recognizes 30 individuals under 30 across 20 categories annually.[6] While both lists celebrate young talent, the Fortune 40 Under 40 includes a broader age range (up to 40) and emphasizes influence across diverse sectors, whereas Forbes focuses on younger individuals with a category-specific approach. Notable Forbes 30 Under 30 winners who later appeared on the Fortune 40 Under 40 include:
- Mark Zuckerberg, recognized for Meta in technology.
- Rihanna, honored for her music and Fenty Beauty ventures.
- Kylie Jenner, noted for Kylie Cosmetics in retail and e-commerce.[7]
Notable Honorees
The Fortune 40 Under 40 has recognized numerous influential figures, including:
- Sarah Cannon (Finance, 2023), Partner at Index Ventures, known for investments in Slack and Notion.[8]
- Céline Dufétel (Finance, 2023), CFO of T. Rowe Price, one of the few female CFOs under 40 in the S&P 500.[8]
- Amir Barsoum (Healthcare, 2023), Founder of Vezeeta, a medical platform in the Middle East and North Africa.[8]
- Isha Ambani (Technology, 2023), Board of Directors at Reliance Jio, driving digital innovation in India.[8]
- Ananya Birla (India, 2024), recognized for her leadership in business and social impact.[2]
Regional Editions
In addition to the global list, Fortune publishes regional editions, such as the Fortune India 40 Under 40, which focuses on India’s young entrepreneurs and professionals. The 2024 India list included leaders like Aadit Palicha and Kaivalya Vohra of Zepto, and Alakh Pandey of Physics Wallah.[2] The selection process for regional lists mirrors the global one, with an emphasis on disruption, scalability, and unique business offerings.[2]
Impact and Recognition
Being named to the Fortune 40 Under 40 provides significant visibility and networking opportunities, often propelling honorees to leadership roles or public office.[9] The list is celebrated for identifying disruptors and change-makers who shape industries and inspire future generations.[1]
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "The 40 Under 40 Shaping Business in 2022". Fortune. November 14, 2022. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 "Fortune India 40 Under 40 2024: India's Rising Business Leaders". Fortune India. August 28, 2024. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "How to Apply 2025". 40 Under 40. May 1, 2025. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ "FAQ". Top 40 Under 40. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
{{cite web}}: Text "Top 40 Under 40" ignored (help) - ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 "FAQ - Forty Under 40 Awards". Ottawa Business Journal. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ "Forbes 30 Under 30". Forbes. July 1, 2025. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ "You don't have to be rich or a celebrity to qualify for 30 under 30, 50 over 50". Fox Business. October 4, 2023. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 "Which alumni are on Fortune's 40 under 40 list?". McKinsey & Company. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
- ↑ "Nominations — Business Record". Business Record. Retrieved August 5, 2025.
{{cite web}}: Text "Forty Under 40" ignored (help)