Nominate the best entrepreneurs for 2025 EOY programme

The 2025 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) programme is open for nominations, with entrepreneurs from emerging, established and international businesses in Cork invited to submit their nominations between now and 27 February.

This year, the programme celebrates entrepreneurs from across the island of Ireland whose vision and innovation are creating long-term value and helping to shape the future with confidence. Business leaders that have the tenacity and determination to push conventional boundaries, think differently and create new solutions that change our collective future for the better are being encouraged to apply.

EOY alumni, Maxine and Rosaleen Hyde of Ballymaloe Foods said that being selected as a finalist for the programme was “hugely positive and rewarding experience. Being able to connect with so many incredible entrepreneurs and forge lasting friendships and connections with them has been fantastic. The alumni network is incredible source of support, advice, and inspiration.”

Roger Wallace, Partner Lead for EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Ireland said: “Now in its 28th year, the purpose of the programme is to acclaim, inspire and encourage entrepreneurship across our island.

“Geopolitics, technology and environmental concerns are redefining our world. Irish entrepreneurs are leaning into the uncertainty that the modern-day business world presents and are identifying and realising opportunities for growth and innovation. Irish entrepreneurs are shaping their future and the future of our island with confidence.

“There will be 24 finalists selected to take part in this year’s programme, who will participate in an exciting strategic growth programme over a 10 month period, including a week-long CEO Retreat to Tokyo, Japan. The finalists will also be welcomed into our acclaimed alumni community of more than 600 of Ireland’s greatest and most successful entrepreneurs, where they will have the opportunity to forge valuable connections, learn from each other and in many cases do business together.”

The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year programme is open to entrepreneurs from all sectors and growth stages in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The awards programme is divided into three categories - Emerging, Established and International - with eight finalists chosen per category.

The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Sustainability Award will also be presented to one of the finalists in recognition of their business’ significant contribution towards achieving and ensuring environmental sustainability.

The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni community comprises more than 600 entrepreneurs representing some of the greatest business minds across the island of Ireland. Collectively these businesses employ more than 250,000 people and generate revenues in excess of €25 billion.

The 24 finalists will be selected by an independent judging panel comprising of former winners and chaired by Harry Hughes, CEO of Portwest. Harry Hughes, Chairperson of the EY EOTY judging panel said: “Ireland has an incredible pool of innovative entrepreneurs who are leading businesses that are achieving significant national and global success. Despite the challenges that face any entrepreneur they show relentless determination and resilience in their pursuit of excellence, continuing to create jobs, strengthen communities and bolster economies. As an alumni of the programme I can attest to its incredible value.”