[4][5] Inc. publishes several print magazine issues per year, and is anchored by journalistic content online and on social media, focused on entrepreneurship and related news.

[6] Owned by Mansueto Ventures, Inc. is best known for its annual rankings of the fastest-growing privately held companies in the United States, called the "Inc. 5000" as well as its Best in Business, Female Founders, and Best Workplaces awards.

[7] Inc. launched as an American business magazine in Boston by Bernie Goldhirsh, focusing on growing companies, startups, and entrepreneurship.

"[18] The early profile focused on Jobs' impact on the personal computer industry and Apple's rise as a key player.

[24] In 2023, Inc. won The Society of Publication Designer’s silver medal for Feature Profile, Non-celebrity Story for "Computer Freaks", published in May–June 2023.

It provides insights, advice, special reports, and resources for business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals building their companies, as well as daily news on money, tech, and management.

[23] The magazine hosts several events, including the annual Inc. 5000 Conference & Awards Ceremony, which celebrates the Inc. 5000 and allows honorees, alumni, and other growth-minded entrepreneurs to learn and network.

[31][32] As of 2024, Inc. has 5 ongoing recognition programs: Inc. 500 and Inc. 5000, (annual lists ranking the fastest-growing privately held companies in the U.S.), Best Workplaces, Female Founders, and Best in Business.

The top 500 companies are featured in the September issue of Inc. magazine each year, highlighting their significant growth and achievements in the private sector of the United States.