Providence Business News is a true friend of Rhode Island's info-tech and digital media (ITDM) community. They provide excellent, extensive coverage of our sector. Moreover, if you haven't noticed, they give us free access to ITDM-related paid content by generously providing the News Radar section of this site with "open links".

Each summer, the PBN publishes its 40 Under Forty list which highlights, "young members of the state’s business and nonprofit communities for career success, community involvement and a commitment to making a difference."

By my count, last year's list featured 5 terrific leaders from the ITDM community, or 12.5% of the total slots. (And 4 of the 5 are women - who says ITDM is dominated by men?!)

• Michelle Girasole , Precision Web Marketing
• Gina Lisa Dispirito , GladWorks
• Raphael Okelola , Roplab IT Solution
• Mary Sadlier , (add)ventures
• Sue Tremblay , Creative Circle Advertising Solutions

5 of 40, or 12.5% of the total slots. That's pretty darn good, but we all know just how many "young" stars our community boasts. Folks who not only kick arse in their work, but who also give back to the larger community in big ways.

So, here's my proposal, challenge... whatever you want to call it. This year, let's go for 10 of the 40 slots, a full 25%. That's _a lot_, but I think we have a shot at it. And regardless, by trying we'll only further raise the profiles of ourselves, our organizations, and our comunity. It's a tough moment for the RI economy, and the ITDM sector represents one of the silver linings. Rhode Islanders want to hear our stories - let's share them.

So how do we do it? Apply! The application is here (Word file). I just completed it - painless, and it doesn't take long at all. The deadline is June 13th!

Note: I haven't talked to the good folks at the PBN about this so I have no idea what they'll think about the "challange." I suspect they'll just consider any and all applications on their individual merits - that should play well for us. :-)

Big thanks to Andy Cutler for reminding everyone, including me, of 40 Under Forty's merits and deadline!