Nominations for the 2026 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Ireland programme have opened today.
The programme is now is in 29th year with more than 680 entrepreneurs who are part of the EOY alumni community.
Together, they employ over 275,000 people and generate more than €28 billion in annual revenues, according to EY.
Head of Assurance and EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Ireland, Roger Wallace, said entrepreneurs are the driving force of Ireland’s economy.
“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,” said Mr Wallace.
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.
EY noted that this year’s finalists will join a nine-month strategic growth journey, gain access to Ireland’s most influential entrepreneurial network, and take part in the annual CEO Retreat in Toronto.
CEO of Portwest and Chairperson of the Judging Panel Harry Hughes said this year’s theme, ‘The Entrepreneurs’, reflects the individuality and creative drive that unite these leaders.
“Each year, I am reminded of the extraordinary calibre of entrepreneurs across this island,” said Mr Hughes. “They challenge convention, find opportunity where others see uncertainty, and build businesses that leave a lasting imprint on their industries and communities.”
Nominations close on 17 February 2026.
