ExtraHop Networks

This Seattle-based network management company is, in the words of one happy employee, "a model startup." Launched in December 2008 by two engineering veterans of F5 Networks, it's got all the essential elements: a vibrant energy among a razor-sharp group of people who want to introduce something new to the market; a work-hard-play-hard mentality that finds the whole staff out together playing bar trivia one night and chatting online about cloud technology at 2 a.m. the next; and yes, a ping pong, er, conference table.

With around half of the 20-strong staff hailing from countries as far-flung as Russia, Nepal and China, there's also a rich level of diversity here. But they tell us that they share a common mentality, youthfulness and sense of humor that unites them. They're proud of an anti-corporate culture that spurns an HR department and eschews sensitivity training in favor of "politically incorrect Fridays." Most importantly, they all intend to conquer the world. And pssst: They're hiring.

Other top finalists*

• 16 Copenhagen
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• Immune Design
• Maximum Sports Conditioning
• Meteor Solutions
• Salient6
• The Shop
• Three Peas in a Pod

*Listed in alphabetical order