International business recognition spotlights URL Media’s forward-thinking workplace culture, fostering vibrant creativity and invention
NEW YORK, NY (September 8, 2026) – Today, URL Media, a national network of multicultural publishers, journalists and creators, earned the No. 5 spot on Fast Company’s 2026 list of 100 Best Workplaces for Innovators. This global distinction recognizes companies across industries such as entertainment, biotech, consumer packaged goods, marketing, education, and healthcare.
Now in its eighth year, Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators list highlights a diverse global mix of companies along with standout teams and leaders shaping innovation from within. URL Media earned its spot on the list following a comprehensive evaluation by Fast Company editors, which assessed the company’s organizational culture, internal programs, and targeted investments in innovation. A distinguished panel of judges then reviewed the top-rated companies to determine the final honorees.
“We are proud of and grateful for this recognition from Fast Company. Prioritizing and celebrating diverse voices, talent and experiences makes every workplace stronger and better. URL is committed to the words we stand upon: “Uplift, Respect and Love” for our employees and the multicultural communities we tirelessly serve,” said Sara Lomax, President and Co-Founder of URL Media.
Launched in 2021 with just eight inaugural partners, URL Media has expanded into a thriving media ecosystem of over 65 independent journalists, content creators, and media outlets, reaching a nationwide audience of more than 21 million people. Guided by our abundance pillar, URL Media drives innovation and elevates the communities of color we serve, grounded in our fully remote, diverse team.
At URL Media, employees can innovate because our workplace culture prioritizes employee morale by ensuring the most essential needs are taken care of and we support them through all phases of life. As a company, we approach professional development through an equity lens by fully funding participation in journalism conferences and internal mentorship initiatives. Furthermore, we spark innovation through teamwide acknowledgement of major achievements and purposeful, in-person staff gatherings that integrate strategic planning, collaboration, cultural engagement, and active support for local BIPOC-owned businesses.
“The most innovative workplaces don’t simply ask their employees to come up with great ideas; they create the conditions that make great ideas possible,” says Brendan Vaughan, editor-in-chief of Fast Company. “This year’s honorees understand that innovation is ultimately a cultural commitment that requires empowering people to think differently, take risks, and turn ideas into actions. We’re proud to recognize the companies and executives who are leading by example.”
Beyond cultivating an innovative workplace, the Recruitment Division at URL Media assists organizations in hiring exceptional diverse talent across all levels — from early-career professionals to executive leaders — enabling other companies to build teams that drive seamless collaboration, continuous innovation, and ongoing business growth. Our recruitment team’s support also extends past talent acquisition: our organizational development and coaching services are tailored to optimize operations, fortify company culture, and fully realize an organization’s potential.
“At URL Media, we’ve learned that innovation thrives when people see their full selves reflected in the mission. This recognition affirms what we’ve always believed: for a majority-minority workplace, doing well and doing good aren’t in tension — they go hand in hand,” said S. Mitra Kalita, CEO and Co-Founder of URL Media.
URL Media leadership and employees will be recognized for achievement during the Best Workplaces for Innovators (BWFI) Awards Reception in New York City next week.
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About URL Media:
URL Media is transforming the media landscape by building a scalable, sustainable ecosystem that empowers trusted publishers and creators serving Black and Brown communities, strengthens their capacity, and directs investment and opportunity to these voices central to shaping our culture and democracy. Founded in 2021 by media trailblazers Sara Lomax and S. Mitra Kalita, URL Media delivers authentic reach and lasting impact for brands, institutions, and audiences ready to engage meaningfully with these communities. For more information, visit url-media.com.
About Fast Company
Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future of business. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with fellow business publication Inc. For more information, please visit fastcompany.com.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Kirstin Garriss, kirstin@url-media.com
