How Do I Build Lists of Competitors or Suppliers?

Several databases allow you to build lists of companies that have certain criteria. These examples focus on building a list based on industry. Review the Help links in the databases to find other tips or instructions.

Keep in Mind:
You may need to have the industry code for the type of company you are looking for. Using the codes will make sure you get all companies a particular industry. (How do I find SIC/NAICS codes?)

Search the Mint Global database:

This finds public and private companies. You can limit results to a specific countries, political or geographic world regions, states or provinces, and U.S. and Canadian counties.

1. Click on Companies, then Other search criteria
2. In the Location section, type in the region name or click Look up
   1. For U.S. or Canadian counties, clickLook up, and use the drop down menu at the top of the screen
3. Click on the blue Industry tab and search with key words or industry codes, or click on Look up

Search the LexisNexis Academic database:

This finds public and private companies. You can limit results to a specific Country/Region, State/Province, City, County, Postal Code, or Area Code.

1. Under the Companies tab at the left side of the screen, click on Dossier Create a Company List.
2. Select the type of company from the drop down menu, or leave All Companies to find public and private companies.
3. Enter the SIC code OR the NAICS code.
4. Check the Search Primary and Secondary SIC Codes radio button to increase your results.
5. Click on the + next to Geographic Location or Financial Information to further limit your results.
6. Click on the redNext: Customize Listbutton.
7. Check the attributes you want in your list report. (For example: number of employees, key competitors, sales/revenue, market capitalization, etc.)
8. Click on the red Update Company List button.
9. Click on the red Download Company List button to export your results.

Search the Global Market Informationdatabase:

1. Click on Search in the top menu.
2. Choose Browse Analysis > Company Profiles.
3. Click on the Filter By Category and choose a category.
4. Click on Go next to the filter.
5. To further limit the search results, filter by country.

Search the Thomas Register web site:

This web site allows you to browse by category and limit results to a geographic location in the U.S. or Canada. If you are unsure of the correct category, try a search.