Typically, companies have to wait years for the honor of ringing the opening bell on the New York Stock Exchange. But later this year a startup company — which may be nowhere near the IPO ledge — could receive that honor.
The New York Stock Exchange has partnered with StartUp America Partnership and the Entrepreneurs’ Organization on a new contest in which one lucky startup will get to ring the opening bell of the world’s most famous stock market. Entries are now be taken on Facebook, with a winner to be selected in May by a community vote.
We haven’t had too many IPOs in these parts lately, so what do you say? Maybe it’s time we get a Seattle startup represented in the mix.
Here are the factors that the judges are basing their decisions on: year-over-year revenue (2009 – 2011); conciseness; creativity and innovation. I can think of a few that might qualify, so go here to register.