Celebrating Growth, Leadership, Legacy

Introducing Red Raider 100

In Lubbock, innovation and entrepreneurship are more than economic drivers; they are part of who we are. That spirit is now being recognized in a bold new way through the Red Raider 100, a program created to honor the fastest-growing businesses led by alumni of Texas Tech University.

Launched by the Lubbock Economic Development Alliance in 2025, Red Raider 100 celebrates the impact Red Raiders are making across many industries and across the globe while strengthening their connection back to Lubbock.

What is the Red Raider 100?
The Red Raider 100 is an annual recognition program that identifies and honors the 100 fastest-growing businesses owned, led, or founded by Texas Tech alumni. These companies represent a powerful network of leaders driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to economic growth at the local, national, and international levels. More than just a ranking, the program shines a spotlight on the influence of Red Raider leadership in today’s business landscape.

These companies represent a powerful network of leaders driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to economic growth at the local, national, and international levels. More than just a ranking, the program shines a spotlight on the influence of Red Raider leadership in today’s business landscape.

Honorees are celebrated at a high-profile event in Lubbock, where rankings are revealed, achievements are recognized, and alumni reconnect with the community that helped shape their success.

Why It Matters for Lubbock
The Red Raider 100 is more than an awards program; it’s a strategic initiative that reinforces Lubbock as a hub for talent, entrepreneurship, and opportunity.

By bringing successful alumni back to Lubbock, the program:
– Showcases the city’s continued growth and momentum
– Strengthens relationships between alumni and the local business community
– Inspires the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders
– Elevates Lubbock’s reputation as a place where businesses can start, grow, and thrive

It’s a celebration of success, but also a reminder of the role Lubbock plays in launching that success.

Who Should Be Nominated?
One of the most exciting aspects of the Red Raider 100 is its accessibility. Anyone can submit a nomination – colleagues, employees, community members, or even the business owner themselves.

Eligible companies must:
– Have been in business for at least five years
– Generate at least $100,000 in annual revenue
– Be owned, led, or founded by a Texas Tech alumnus in a leadership role

Even if a company is unsure whether it meets every requirement, nominations are encouraged. The process is designed to be inclusive, allowing businesses to determine eligibility during the application phase.

To ensure integrity and accuracy, all financial data submitted during the application process is reviewed by an independent accounting firm. This guarantees a fair and confidential evaluation, with rankings based on verified revenue growth over three years. This level of credibility not only strengthens the program but also enhances the prestige of being named to the Red Raider 100.

Nominate a Red Raider Today
The Red Raider 100 is more than recognition; it’s a movement to celebrate excellence, elevate alumni success, and strengthen the connection between business leaders and Lubbock. Nominations are open now through September 1, 2026, with honorees announced later in the year and celebrated in early 2027.

If you know a business that is making an impact, now is the time to shine a light on its success. Behind every growing business is a story worth telling, and the Red Raider 100 is your opportunity to help tell it.

Nominate a company, celebrate innovation, and be part of recognizing the leaders who continue to carry the Red Raider legacy forward.