Business Directory
The 2024 CO— 100 List|Champions of Adaptability

Interpreters Unlimited, Inc.

Interpreters Unlimited (IU) is a leading language services provider specializing in foreign language interpretation and document translation for diverse sectors, including healthcare, legal, and government agencies. Under the leadership of current owner Sayed Ali, IU has expanded nationwide and uses proprietary technology to enhance service delivery while maintaining a strong commitment to social impact, including charitable contributions and community involvement.

Founded

1970

Industry

Professional Services

Notable Facts

Minority-owned

2024 Honoree in Champions of Adaptability

Interpreters Unlimited, Inc. has been recognized as a Champion of Adaptability in the CO—100. The category honors businesses that have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and tenacity in overcoming significant challenges or adversity. These businesses have shown the grit and determination needed to navigate through tough times with unwavering resolve and innovative problem-solving. The CO—100 is the annual list of the 100 best and brightest small and mid-sized businesses in America.


Overview–

Interpreters Unlimited, Inc. Overview

Leadership

President

Sayed Ali

Contact

Address

8943 Calliandra Rd San Diego, CA 92126

Social

About Interpreters Unlimited, Inc.

Interpreters Unlimited (IU) specializes in foreign language interpretation and document translation for a diverse range of sectors, including schools, government agencies, corporations, healthcare, legal firms and more. Our mission is rooted in social impact, helping those with language barriers access essential services. Our extensive network of contracted translators and interpreters across the US supports services in more than 200 languages, including American Sign Language. The journey of IU and its owner, Sayed Ali, is both unique and inspirational. Immigrating to the US from India in 1966 to study electronic engineering, Sayed transitioned from a successful engineering career to entrepreneurship after two decades. In 1987, he secured an SBA loan to establish Creative Host Services, a successful venture he built from the ground up. In 2007, Sayed acquired Interpreters Unlimited with another SBA loan, transforming it into a leading language services provider. Sayeds vision expanded IU from its San Diego base to a nationwide presence through strategic acquisitions and innovative marketing. By focusing on key regions and broadening our service offerings, IU has capitalized on the growing demand for language services for limited English-proficient and Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing individuals, boosting profitability and reach. Since Sayed Alis acquisition in 2007, IUs revenue has surged by over 500%, thanks to our dedication to quality, competitive pricing, and client satisfaction. IUs growth is also driven by integrating proprietary technologies. Our client web portal streamlines the matching process between clients and linguists, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs. We introduced the Language Service industrys first Auto Scheduling feature, enabling interpreter bookings within minutes. Additionally, IU partnered with Zoom to offer seamless language services via the app, staying at the forefront of technology to better serve our clients. These advancements have significantly reduced operational costs and increased profitability. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our top-rated service and customer satisfaction. IU is the highest-rated major Language Service Provider across all major review sites, including Google, Yelp, Facebook, and Glassdoor. Despite our national presence, IU remains a family-owned small business, providing the personalized service and attention to detail typical of small enterprises. Our management is accessible 24/7, with live telephone support available around the clock. IUs commitment and inspiration includes donating a percentage of most contracts to charities and providing pro bono services to the NORAD Tracks Santa Program every Christmas. We support the Alzheimers & Dementia Resource Center, Ronald McDonald House, Survivors of Torture International, and more. Sayed and IU are deeply involved with PATH, an organization working to end homelessness, providing housing, food, medical and mental health support. Additionally, we mentor budding entrepreneurs through SBA SCORE and Chairmans Roundtable, volunteer at food banks and refugee support organizations. Our volunteer time-off policy allows all staff three paid days annually to support good causes, from community clean-ups to reforestation efforts, we have a big impact. Interpreters Unlimited continues to excel, driven by innovation, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to bridging language gaps for a better world. We are a great candidate to be named to the CO100.

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