Entries sought from Cork entrepreneurs for national small business awards

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has pledged his support to small businesses in Cork at the launch of 23rd annual Small Firms Association (SFA) National Small Business Awards 2027 which carries a prize package of €50,000.

The awards celebrate the innovation and excellence of small businesses in Cork and across Ireland, along with recognising the significant contribution of the small business community to the Irish economy.

Small firms, employing less than 50 people, have from September 3 until October 23 this year to enter. There is also an option to nominate a business to receive an award.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Martin said small businesses are the lifeblood of the wider economy in Cork and across Ireland.

“Our small business leaders are a credit to the nation’s entrepreneurial spirit which plays a critical role in Ireland’s economic success.

“Through the SFA National Small Business Awards, we honour their achievements and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.

“With current uncertainty in the global economic environment, it is vital that our small businesses are strong, adaptable, and ready to meet any challenge.

“The government will continue to work with them to grow our economy and ensure Ireland remains an attractive place to do business.”

The awards are free to enter and the prize package for all finalists is valued at €50,000.

This includes a strategic management masterclass participation in SFA Business MentorsWork programme, as well as in the SFA Business Connect event where businesses will be able to showcase their products and services to an audience of over 300 attendees.

Chairperson of the SFA, Geraldine Magnier, added: “As a nation of small businesses we must honour the small business leaders in Cork and beyond that contribute so much to our local communities and the wider economy.

“The SFA National Small Business Awards is a tribute to the success and endeavour of the 270,000 small businesses who collectively employ around 43% of the private sector workforce.”