Knoxville,Tenn.- Inc. Magazine has announced its newest annual list of America’s 5000 fastest-growing private companies. This year, four East Tennessee Entrepreneurs’ Organization members were recognized on the prestigious list, as well as one alumnus.

The companies included in the 2012 Inc. 5000 list are: Sword & Shield Enterprise Security, Strategic Consulting Solutions, ARG Financial Staffing, Claris Networks, and Functional Pathways. Sword & Shield Enterprise Security is a network security partner for customers in 27 countries and all 50 states. Strategic Consulting Solutions is a consulting company based in Oak Ridge with a client base that ranges from start-up companies to large prime contractors. ARG Financial Staffing is the region’s leading placement firm for accounting and finance professionals. Claris Networks, a leading cloud computing and IT Solutions provider, has locations in Knoxville, Nashville and Chattanooga. Functional Pathways is a Knoxville-based premium provider of nation-wide contract therapy services.

The magazine chooses companies for the list by comparing revenue growth. These companies are required to be U.S.-based, privately held, independent, for-profit and not a subsidiary or division of another company. Being a part of this list is an honor because it highlights the companies’ achievements and rewards their efforts in innovation and economic growth.

ABOUT ENTREPRENEURS’ ORGANIZATION
The Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) is a global business network of more than 8,000 business owners in 121 chapters and 40 countries. Founded in 1987 by a group of young entrepreneurs, EO enables small and large business owners to learn from each other, leading to greater business success and an enriched personal life. Its vision is to build the world’s most influential entrepreneur community, which aligns with its mission of supporting entrepreneurial education and engaging entrepreneurs to learn and grow.

Founded in 1996, the East Tennessee chapter of Entrepreneurs’ Organization has 26 members from Chattanooga to Knoxville to the Tri-Cities. The entrepreneurs of the chapter lead companies with a combined total of $260 million in sales and 1088 employees. More information may be found on the chapter’s website at http://www.eoeasttn.com and on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/EOEastTennessee.