Ireland's Top 24 Entrepreneurs Vie for Prestigious EY Award: Who Will Win?

The 2024 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards are just around the corner, promising a thrilling showdown of Ireland's most innovative and impactful entrepreneurs. This year’s program, launched in January 2024, saw a record-breaking number of over 200 nominations, highlighting the exceptional entrepreneurial spirit thriving across the island. The finalists, representing a diverse range of sectors, are poised to battle it out for the coveted title.

The Finalists: A Diverse Cohort of Innovators

This year's 24 finalists include a remarkable group of individuals whose achievements span diverse fields like technology, healthcare, hospitality, and more. Among them is Clare Hughes, CEO of Kilkenny-based CF Pharma Group, a pharmaceutical lab specializing in veterinary medical devices and nutraceuticals. Her nomination recognizes her leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and contribution to the nutraceutical industry. "I’m incredibly honoured to be recognised as a finalist," Hughes shared, emphasizing the collective hard work of her team since the company's founding in 2015. CF Pharma's commitment to global health outcomes underscores the broader impact of this year's finalists.

Another notable finalist is Rosaleen and Maxine Hyde of Ballymaloe Foods, representing Cork. Their success in the international category showcases the global reach of Irish entrepreneurship. This dynamic duo, along with other finalists like Liam McMahon and Kasper Weber Anderson of Beyond Creative (creating tailor-made computer games), and the Longford duo of Andrea Reynolds of Swoop and Padraic O’Kane of Corporate.ie, highlight the varied yet impactful contributions these businesses have made.

Furthermore, Brendan Mee, CEO of MTM Engineering, representing Meath, adds to the impressive roster of finalists. His selection speaks volumes about the growth and innovation within the engineering sector in Ireland. The finalists collectively generate over €700 million in annual revenue and employ over 4,000 people, demonstrating their significant economic contributions.

A Showcase of Irish Innovation

The sheer number of nominations this year reflects a vibrant and robust entrepreneurial landscape in Ireland. The diverse backgrounds and industries represented by the finalists highlight the creativity and innovation driving the Irish economy. Each finalist represents a testament to the resilience, vision, and impact that define successful entrepreneurship. The competition is fierce, making the selection process even more exciting and showcasing the high standard of entrepreneurship across Ireland.

The Awards Night and Beyond

The awards ceremony, scheduled for Thursday, November 28th at the Powerscourt Hotel in Wicklow, promises to be a grand affair. The event will showcase not just the achievements of the finalists, but also the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit driving Ireland's economy. Awards will be presented across three categories: Emerging, Established, and International, with one overall winner taking home the prestigious title of EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2024. A Sustainability Award will also be presented to the finalist demonstrating the most substantial commitment to environmental sustainability in their operations. The overall winner will proceed to represent Ireland at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 awards in Monaco next June.

The EY Entrepreneur of the Year program isn't just about the awards; it's a comprehensive development program that fosters a thriving network of entrepreneurs. With over 600 alumni, this community generates €23 billion in revenue and employs over 250,000 people across Ireland. This year's finalists will join this extensive network, accessing invaluable resources and connections that will support their continued success and growth. The judging panel, comprised of past winners, further emphasizes the program's commitment to identifying and supporting excellence in entrepreneurship.

A Celebration of Success and a Look Towards the Future

The EY Entrepreneur of the Year Awards are more than just a competition; they're a celebration of success, innovation, and the spirit of entrepreneurship in Ireland. The event provides a platform for recognizing outstanding achievements, fostering connections, and inspiring future generations of entrepreneurs. This year's finalists embody the qualities needed to succeed in the challenging but rewarding world of business, demonstrating resilience, innovation, and a commitment to making a lasting impact. The upcoming awards night will be broadcast on YouTube and RTÉ television, allowing viewers across Ireland and beyond to witness this celebration of Irish entrepreneurship. The event not only acknowledges past achievements but also sets the stage for the continued growth and success of these businesses and the overall entrepreneurial landscape of Ireland. The awards provide a crucial platform for networking and collaboration, further driving innovation within the Irish business ecosystem. The future of Irish entrepreneurship looks bright, fueled by the dynamism and innovation demonstrated by this year's incredible finalists.