Nominations have formally opened for the 2024 EY Entrepreneur of the Year programme, which is operating under the theme of The Trailblazers - true leaders with the courage and capacity to plot and follow their own path, pushing conventional boundaries and limits.
Entrepreneurs from emerging, established, and international businesses operating across all industry sectors across the island are invited to submit their nominations up until February 29.
And the ultimate aim is to follow in the illustrious footsteps of many past winners from Northern Ireland, where entrants normally punch above their weight in this long-established global initiative.
Just two years ago Martin McKay, who in 1996 founded Texthelp, the Antrim-based company behind assistive software for people with dyslexia, was named overall EY Entrepreneur of the Year, and last year Dr Andrew Woods, founder of Belfast green tech firm Catagen, scooped the sustainability category.
Rob Heron, partner lead for EY Entrepreneur of the Year in Northern Ireland, said: “We are very excited to invite entrepreneurs from Northern Ireland to submit their nominations.
“Now in its 27th year, the programme exists to acclaim, drive, and inspire entrepreneurship across our island.
“This year we are celebrating the trailblazing entrepreneurs who are spearheading incredible businesses that are contributing to the growth of Northern Ireland’s economy and local communities.”
He added: “Northern Irish entrepreneurs continue to have a disproportionate global impact, reflecting an international scaling mindset and innate capacity to grow and succeed across borders and cultures.
“One of the greatest strengths of the island of Ireland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is its diverse composition. For this reason, we are actively seeking and encouraging nominations from entrepreneurs of all ages and from all industries and locations.”
Some finalists will be selected for this year’s programme and will participate in a strategic growth programme over a 10-month period, including a week-long retreat to South Africa.
They will also be welcomed into the acclaimed EY Entrepreneur of the Year alumni community.
It 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 £20 billion.
More details on categories and the nomination process at www.eoy.ie
