When you need to find information about a company, you’ll probably find the details you’re looking for in an online database. You have access to dozens of business databases, and most will list pertinent information about the organization, like its industry sector, revenue, and top leadership. Here are four helpful databases to get you started.
1. OpenCorporates
OpenCorporates is the largest existing database of companies in the world. According to the site, over 220 million organizations are listed on OpenCorporates across over 140 jurisdictions. The site is completely free to use — making it the first place you should start your company search.
Searching through OpenCorporates for company profiles is easy. You can enter the company’s name or other identifiers like market sector or location. Your search will return a list of companies that fit your description. You can review each profile.
Each OpenCorporates profile contains specific information about the company, including its incorporation date, current status, location, and contact details. As an example, take a look at this business profile. You’ll find information about the company’s directors and a list of recent events in the company’s history.
2. Crunchbase
Crunchbase is an excellent resource for organizations looking for investment opportunities. Thousands of private equity firms use Crunchbase to find information about up-and-coming companies that need funding to grow their businesses.
If they find a match that fits their investment criteria, private equity firms can contact the appropriate stakeholder to start a conversation.
Crunchbase is also helpful for organizations that want to connect with leaders in other companies who make buying decisions. If you’re in the B2B sector, Crunchbase can help you identify potential sales opportunities. You can use the contact information available to reach out to managers, directors, or the executive team.
As an example, check out the profile for Apple. It lists the company’s size, location, and website. Further details include an email address to contact relevant stakeholders and recent funding wins to showcase the company’s traction in the industry.
3. Powrbot
Powrbot is a free company directory effective for local and regional company searches worldwide. You’ll need to sign up for an account to get started. Then, you can use your account to search for company information, including geolocation, business names, and contact details, like phone numbers.
All Powrbots results are generated in CSV format, so you’ll need to download the file you receive to examine your effects. However, it’s a great alternative to searching for business information through less reliable means, like Google Maps.
Powrbot offers a sample of the data it provides on its website. You can set your filters according to country, city, business type, and the number of results you’d like to view.
While Powrbot won’t provide you with information like company revenue or time in business, it’s a great way to check out your competition or learn which companies offer the services you need in your area.
4. Better Business Bureau
The Better Business Bureau offers an extensive database of American companies, fully searchable by location, market sector, and company name. Many people turn to the Better Business Bureau to learn more about a company’s operating structure or discover how previous customers felt about their purchases.
Companies must apply and qualify for Better Business Bureau accreditation. This accreditation benefits customer-driven companies and allows them to respond to any reviews or complaints that clients leave.
To obtain accreditation with the Better Business Bureau, you’ll need to provide proof that you’re the owner or executive leader of the company, as well as a copy of your business license.
Most companies include pertinent information on their Better Business Bureau profiles, like the company start date, entity structure, and customer service contact information. You’ll also find company websites and phone numbers.
For example, the Better Business Bureau profile for McDonald’s shows the company has an A+ rating and full accreditation. Also included are contact details and entity type, as well as the length of time in business.
Company Databases Can Help You Find the Information You Need
Whether you want to learn more about your competitors or are interested in acquiring a growing company in an intriguing market sector, business directories are an excellent place to begin your research. You’ll likely find lots of relevant information, including names of executive leaders, business locations, and industry sectors.
Sales professionals who need the contact information of decision-makers can find the details they need through business directories. With those details, they can reach out to target business leaders and earn a sale.
