Nominations open for Entrepreneur of the Year programme

Nominations are now open for the 2026 EY Entrepreneur of the Year (EOY) programme in Cork.

Now in its 29th year, the theme of this year’s programme, ‘The Entrepreneurs’, recognises those who pair imagination with action.

The awards programme will be divided into the three categories of ‘emerging’, ‘established’, and ‘international’, with eight finalists chosen per category by an independent judging panel, comprising former winners and chaired by Harry Hughes of Portwest.

The 24 finalists will then go on to participate in a nine-month strategic growth programme that includes executive education, networking forums, tailored media profiling, and the annual CEO Retreat, which this year will take place in Toronto, Canada.

Finalists will also be welcomed into the EOY alumni community, which has grown to more than 680 members, who employ over 275,000 people and generate in excess of €28bn in annual revenues.

Mr Huges, who is the CEO of Portwest and chairperson of the EOY programme, said each year, he is reminded of the “extraordinary calibre” of entrepreneurs in Cork and across this island.

“They challenge convention, find opportunity where others see uncertainty, and build businesses that leave a lasting imprint on their industries and communities,” said Mr Hughes.

Roger Wallace, head of assurance and EOY Ireland, said entrepreneurs are the driving force of Ireland’s economy.

“They combine vision with courage, creativity with determination, and in doing so they push our island forward in ways that few other groups can,” he said.

“In a world defined by constant change, new global norms and rising pressures, these leaders remain steady innovators who turn bold ideas into real impact.

“As a country, we rely on their ambition, and it is more important than ever that we champion, support and celebrate the entrepreneurs shaping tomorrow,” he added.

Entrepreneurs from emerging, established and international businesses in Cork are now invited to put themselves forward for the EOY programme, with the deadline set for February 17.

• For more information, visit www.eoy.ie.