The Fast Co Best Workplaces for Innovators list for 2025 is out, and it’s always interesting to see which companies are making big moves in the innovation space. This year’s list highlights a bunch of different businesses, from food companies to tech giants, all showing a real commitment to new ideas. It’s not just about cool products; it’s also about creating a place where employees can actually come up with those ideas. Let’s take a look at some of the top names on this year’s fast co best workplaces for innovators list and what makes them stand out.
Key Takeaways
- Hormel Foods got on the list for the first time, showing their focus on innovation in the food industry.
- Iterate.ai, an AI company, was recognized for helping businesses build new AI applications.
- McKinney, a creative agency, was honored for how their employees drive innovation, especially with AI.
- The list includes a wide range of industries, not just tech, showing that innovation is important everywhere.
- Companies on the list are recognized for creating cultures where new ideas are encouraged and developed.
1. Hormel Foods
Hormel Foods makes the list again! It’s pretty cool to see a company known for its classic brands also recognized for its innovative spirit. They’re not just sticking to the same old recipes; they’re actively working to improve food and worker safety and come up with new ideas for the future of food.
Hormel Foods Corporation has over $12 billion in annual revenue across more than 80 countries worldwide. It’s great to see a company with such a long history still pushing boundaries and getting recognized for it. It makes you wonder what new products and initiatives they’ll come up with next!
2. Iterate.ai
Iterate.ai has earned its spot on the Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators list, and it’s easy to see why. They’re not just playing around with AI; they’re actively helping other companies bring their AI dreams to life. It’s cool to see a company so focused on pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with AI, especially when they’re making it easier for others to jump in too.
Iterate.ai’s Interplay platform is a big deal. It lets companies build AI applications much faster than before. We’re talking about a serious speed boost, like 17 times faster! Plus, these applications run way better in real-world situations. It’s all about making AI practical and accessible, not just some fancy tech demo. The platform is flexible, too, working on different setups, from edge servers to cloud instances. This flexibility is key for businesses that need to adapt to changing tech landscapes. The Dell Technologies Forum 2025 will likely showcase similar AI and edge computing solutions.
They’re also working on some interesting projects. Generate, their secure AI Manager, lets companies use LLMs safely. And AppCoder, their open-source LLM, is designed to generate AI code using natural language. It’s pretty impressive that it outperforms other options in certain tests. Plus, they’re even open-sourcing AI software for weapons detection, which is a great way to give back to the community and help schools and religious institutions improve their security. Iterate.ai’s commitment to innovation is inspiring, and it’s great to see them recognized for their efforts.
Iterate.ai isn’t just about building cool tech; they’re also helping their customers invent new stuff and even file patents. That kind of support is why big names in beauty, retail, and finance trust them. And it’s why companies like Intel partner with them to develop cutting-edge AI. They’re really making a difference in how businesses use AI to innovate.
3. McKinney
McKinney, a creative, media, and influencer agency, secures its spot on the Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators list for 2025. It’s pretty cool to see them recognized for their commitment to a workplace where creativity can really take off. In 2024, they were also on Ad Age’s A-List, so they must be doing something right!
McKinney’s employee-driven approach to AI is a big reason for the recognition. They even have an AI Taskforce that leads the charge in exploring and using AI. They built their own "AI Playground," which is basically a safe space for everyone in the agency to mess around with AI.
Some cool things they’ve done with AI include:
- A game called "Are You Blacker Than ChatGPT," which highlights AI bias. It’s a pretty thought-provoking idea.
- BrandAI, a tool that helps clients see how much attention they’re getting. Global tech innovation hubs are always interesting to watch.
- Bringing in top experts and vendors to share knowledge.
McKinney’s CEO, Joe Maglio, seems pretty stoked about the award, saying it honors the employees who are driving innovation. They’ve got offices all over the place, including Durham, Dallas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, and New York. Plus, they’ve won a ton of awards, like Cannes Lions and Effies. They work with some big names too, like Popeyes and Samsung. It sounds like a pretty happening place to work!
4. Accenture
Accenture, a big name in professional services, consistently lands on lists like Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators, and for good reason. They’re not just talking about innovation; they’re actively building it into their culture. Accenture invests heavily in research and development, exploring emerging technologies and trends to stay ahead of the curve.
Accenture’s approach includes:
- Dedicated Innovation Hubs: They have spaces around the globe where teams can collaborate, experiment, and bring new ideas to life. These hubs are equipped with the latest tech and resources.
- Employee Empowerment: Accenture encourages employees at all levels to contribute ideas and participate in innovation challenges. They recognize and reward innovative thinking.
- Partnerships and Acquisitions: Accenture actively partners with startups and acquires companies with cutting-edge technologies to expand their capabilities and bring new solutions to clients. This is similar to how Ascendum was recognized in previous years.
It’s this multi-faceted approach that keeps Accenture at the forefront of innovation, helping them deliver solutions for their clients and maintain a spot on lists like this one. They are a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud, and security. They embrace the power of change to create value and shared success for their clients, people, shareholders, partners, and communities.
5. Amex
American Express, or Amex as most people call it, continues to show why it’s a leader in the financial services industry. It’s not just about credit cards; it’s about creating a culture where innovation thrives. I think that’s pretty cool.
Amex has a bunch of programs to encourage employees to come up with new ideas. They have internal incubators where employees can develop their projects, and they also partner with startups to bring in fresh perspectives. This mix of internal and external innovation seems to be working really well for them.
They also invest heavily in training and development, making sure their employees have the skills they need to stay ahead of the curve. It’s not just about the bottom line; it’s about investing in people. It’s great to see Amex recognized as one of the best workplaces for innovators. They’re setting a high bar for other companies to follow. I wonder what they’ll come up with next. It’s exciting to see companies like Amex pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the financial world. They are always trying to improve their credit card services.
6. Mattel
Okay, so Mattel making the list? Not a huge shocker. They’re always trying to stay relevant, and honestly, they’ve had some pretty cool innovations lately. It’s not just about Barbie anymore (though Barbie’s still a big deal, let’s be real). They’re clearly trying to keep up with the times, and it looks like it’s paying off.
Mattel is being recognized for its commitment to innovation across its product lines and internal processes.
I think what’s interesting is how they’re blending traditional toys with tech. It’s not just slapping a screen on everything; they’re thinking about how kids actually play and how tech can add to that, not replace it. It’s a tough balance to strike, but when they get it right, it’s pretty impressive. It’s important for countries to adapt and thrive amidst these changes, ensuring economic growth and societal well-being.
Here are a few things they’ve been doing that stand out:
- Sustainability Initiatives: They’re making a push for more sustainable materials and packaging, which is a big deal for environmentally conscious parents.
- Digital Integration: They’re experimenting with AR and VR experiences to enhance play, like bringing Barbie’s Dreamhouse to life in a whole new way.
- Inclusive Designs: They’re expanding their product lines to be more inclusive of different body types, abilities, and backgrounds, which is super important for representation.
7. Walmart
Okay, so Walmart. You might think, "What’s innovative about Walmart?" But honestly, they’re doing some interesting things. It’s not just about low prices anymore; they’re trying to change the whole shopping experience.
Walmart is investing heavily in technology to improve both the online and in-store experience for customers. They’re not just sitting back; they’re actively trying to stay ahead of the curve, which is pretty cool for such a big company.
Here’s a few things they’re focusing on:
- Supply Chain Efficiency: Walmart is constantly working on making its supply chain faster and more efficient. This means getting products to shelves (both physical and virtual) quicker and reducing waste. They are a major player in retail.
- E-commerce Growth: They’re putting a lot of effort into growing their online presence to compete with companies like Amazon. This includes improving their website, offering more delivery options, and expanding their online product selection.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Walmart has been making strides in sustainability, aiming to reduce its environmental impact. This includes using more renewable energy, reducing packaging waste, and sourcing products more responsibly.
It’s interesting to see a company of this size trying to adapt and innovate. Whether they succeed remains to be seen, but they’re definitely putting in the effort.
8. Intel
Intel has consistently pushed the boundaries of innovation in the tech world. It’s not just about making faster processors; it’s about creating a culture where employees are encouraged to think outside the box and develop groundbreaking technologies. Intel’s commitment to research and development is a key factor in its continued success.
Intel’s approach includes:
- Investing heavily in employee training and development programs.
- Providing resources and support for employees to pursue innovative projects.
- Fostering a collaborative environment where ideas can be shared and refined.
They’ve also been making strides in AI, partnering with companies like Iterate.ai to drive cutting-edge AI developments. This collaboration helps them build production-ready applications for various AI needs. It’s cool to see how they’re not just focusing on hardware but also on the software and AI aspects of computing.
9. Fast Company
It might seem a little on the nose to include Fast Company on a list of best workplaces for innovators, but hear me out. They aren’t just reporting on innovation; they’re actively trying to embody it. Fast Company is dedicated to the intersection of business, innovation, and design.
Think about it: they’re constantly engaging with leaders and companies to discuss the future. That requires a culture that’s open to new ideas and willing to experiment. It’s not just about writing articles; it’s about sparking conversations and pushing boundaries. They even have an email series about their efforts in the industry. It’s about walking the walk, not just talking the talk. They are headquartered in New York City.
10. Brand Fuel
Brand Fuel is making waves, and it’s not just about cool swag anymore. They’re thinking differently about how promotional products can actually drive engagement and build brand loyalty. It’s more than just slapping a logo on a pen; it’s about creating memorable experiences.
I think what sets them apart is their focus on creativity and sustainability. They’re not just pushing products; they’re crafting stories. Brand Fuel understands that the best promotional items are the ones people actually want to keep and use.
Here’s what I’ve gathered about their approach:
- They prioritize eco-friendly materials and ethical sourcing.
- They work closely with clients to develop custom designs that align with their brand identity.
- They measure the impact of their campaigns to ensure they’re delivering results.
It’s interesting to see a company in this space really pushing the boundaries and thinking about the bigger picture. They are showcasing innovation across the USA with their unique approach. Brand Fuel seems to be setting a new standard for what promotional marketing can be.
Wrapping Things Up
So, as we finish looking at the Fast Co Best Workplaces for Innovators 2025, it’s pretty clear what makes these companies special. It’s not just about cool new ideas, you know? It’s really about how they treat their people. They create places where everyone feels like they can share their thoughts, even the wild ones. And that’s a big deal. When a company makes it easy for folks to try new things, even if they don’t always work out, that’s when the real magic happens. These businesses show us that a good workplace culture isn’t just a nice extra; it’s actually how you get ahead. It’s how you stay fresh and keep coming up with stuff that changes things. So, here’s to all the companies that get it right – they’re showing everyone else how it’s done.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators list?
Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators list highlights companies that are really good at coming up with new ideas and making them happen. They look for places where employees are encouraged to be creative and try new things.
How are companies chosen for this list?
Companies on the list are chosen based on how much they support new ideas, how they invest in new projects, and what kind of culture they have that helps people innovate. Fast Company and Accenture work together to score applications, and then a group of judges picks the top companies.
Was Hormel Foods included on the list?
Yes, Hormel Foods was recognized for the first time on the 2023 list. They were praised for making innovation a key part of their business, especially in how they meet customer needs and work towards a more sustainable future.
What did McKinney do to get on the list?
McKinney, a creative agency, was honored for its employee-driven approach to new ideas, especially with AI. They have a special team that explores how AI can be used in their work.
How did Iterate.ai stand out as an innovator?
Iterate.ai was recognized for helping businesses use AI to build new tools and products. They focus on making AI easy to use and secure for big companies.
What types of companies are usually on this list?
The list includes companies from many different fields, like food, technology, marketing, and more. This shows that being innovative is important for all kinds of businesses today.
