Cork Entrepreneurs Secure Spots as EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Finalists
Three Cork-based companies have earned positions as finalists in the 29th annual EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) programme. This year’s theme, ‘The Entrepreneurs’, focuses on recognizing leaders who successfully combine imagination with action to drive business growth.
A dedicated judging panel selected 24 finalists from across the island of Ireland. These candidates are divided into three categories—emerging, established, and international—with eight finalists in each group.
The Cork Finalists
The shortlisted entrepreneurs from Cork represent a diverse range of industries and growth stages:
- Danny Buckley (ADHDNow): Shortlisted in the emerging category.
- Trevor Casey (EPH Controls): Shortlisted in the established category.
- Chris Horgan (Dexgreen): Shortlisted in the international category.
Beyond the Award: The Strategic Growth Programme
Becoming a finalist provides more than just recognition. The 24 selected entrepreneurs will enter a nine-month strategic growth programme designed to scale their businesses. According to C103, the experience includes:
- Executive education and networking forums.
- Tailored media profiling to increase brand visibility.
- The annual CEO Retreat, which will be held in Toronto, Canada, this year.
Navigating a Complex Economic Landscape
The 2026 business environment presents unique challenges for founders. Roger Wallace, Head of Assurance and EY Entrepreneur of the Year Ireland, noted that entrepreneurship today differs significantly from previous years. He highlighted that current leaders must navigate a world defined by geopolitical instability, rapid advancements in AI, and significant economic uncertainty.
Wallace emphasized that this environment demands a combination of creativity and resilience, stating that this year’s finalists are not just adapting to these shifts but are actively shaping the environment.
Key Takeaways: EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Theme | ‘The Entrepreneurs’ |
| Total Finalists | 24 (8 per category) |
| Categories | Emerging, Established, International |
| CEO Retreat Location | Toronto, Canada |
| Programme Duration | 9 Months |
Frequently Asked Questions
How are the finalists selected?
An independent judging panel, chaired by Harry Hughes of Portwest, selects the finalists based on their innovation, ambition, and leadership.
What is the purpose of the EOY programme?
The programme aims to celebrate and support business leaders across all sectors and stages of growth, providing them with the tools and networks necessary for further expansion.
As these Cork entrepreneurs move forward in the competition, their progress will reflect the resilience and innovation currently driving the regional economy amid global volatility.
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