Ernst &Young's Strategic Growth Markets - Ernst & Young - United States

Global economic recovery depends on the proven relationship of entrepreneurship and innovation to economic growth (pdf, 1.21M). Large corporations in particular must build and sustain innovation-oriented cultures to retain their roles as market leaders. Economic growth is also created by effective public policy — the current crisis is the perfect time for policy-makers and business leaders to support entrepreneurs and innovators at all levels of their economies.

From survival to growth, our seventh annual report on Venture Capital, examines the state of Venture Capital today and provides insights into such topics as strategies for seizing opportunities in the current downturn, managing working capital and concerns for technology companies. Throughout the report, leading company executives and Venture Capital investors from around the globe share their own perspectives on the impacts of the downturn and strategies for success.

In response to the downturn, Ernst & Young recently surveyed 3,100 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year award country winners and finalists. Our findings show that 67% of high-growth company CEOs and entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the downturn by "pursuing new market opportunities." Expanding customer base and sharpening market differentiation are the top priority for today's leading entrepreneurs, according to our survey.

New York, 14 April 2009 - In its just-released analysis of companies in the Russell 2000® for 2008, Ernst & Young LLP found a common thread among the top performing companies: growth was in and debt was out.

This series of webcasts provides insights to C-suite executives on maintaining the balance between the need for growth and risk during these tough times. Moderated by Deborah Norville, host of TV's "Inside Edition".

Watch an overview of our most recent annual gathering of high-growth, marketing leading companies. Save-the-date for November 11-15, 2009 to learn how this year's Forum will deliver leading business advice on growth strategies in turbulent times.

Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year is the world’s most prestigious business award for entrepreneurs. Recipients of the regional awards are recognized at award galas across the US throughout the month of June.

In June 2008, the Russell 2000 underwent a reconstitution (pdf, 84k) of member companies in the index. This face-lift reflected many of the economic trends of last year, along with the decisions by some companies to be taken private. Leaders of high-growth companies need to keep in mind these trends and the impacts their own decisions will have in the coming year.