Finalists Announced in the “SFA National Small Business Awards 2012”
Successful small businesses will be vital to our economic recovery
“Small businesses and entrepreneurs play a crucial and often underestimated role in our economy. The SFA National Small Business Awards enable us to reward and showcase Ireland’s entrepreneurial talent.”Awards Patron, An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, TD
The finalists in the SFA National Small Business Awards 2012 have been officially announced by Ian Martin, SFA Chairman and Chair of the Awards Judging Panel. The aim of the awards is to celebrate the achievements of small business in Ireland, and to recognise the vital contribution of the small business sector to Irish industry.
“It’s great to see that entries are up again on last year which shows that even in these very difficult times, Irish small companies are resilient, putting their best foot forward and seeking recognition for their efforts. There is also evidence that companies are seeing some chink of light as this year turnover is moving upwards as against significant decreases over the last two years”, commented Ian Martin, SFA Chairman and Chair of the Awards Judging Panel. “As well as our six categories of awards we also feature five of the best Emerging New Businesses (less than 2 years established) and I must say that given the quantity and quality of the businesses represented in this section this year, entrepreneurship is alive and well in Ireland”, stated Mr. Martin.
An Taoiseach Enda Kenny, TD, who is Patron of the Awards, stated that: “Small businesses and entrepreneurs play a crucial and often underestimated role in our economy. The SFA National Small Business Awards enable us to reward and showcase Ireland’s entrepreneurial talent. I am confident that the talent and energy of Irish entrepreneurs highlighted through these awards will provide the basis for Ireland’s re-emergence as a strong and successful economy.”
35 companies have been selected as finalists across 6 categories.
MANUFACTURING AWARD FINALISTS (up to 50 employees), sponsored by Chartered Accountants Ireland:
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FOOD & DRINK AWARD FINALISTS (up to 50 employees), sponsored by Bord Bia:
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SERVICES AWARD FINALISTS (up to 50 employees), sponsored by Eircom:
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OUTSTANDING SMALL BUSINESS FINALISTS (up to five employees), sponsored by AIB:
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INNOVATOR OF THE YEAR FINALISTS (up to 50 employees), sponsored by Enterprise Ireland:
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ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY FINALISTS (up to 50 employees), sponsored by Sustainable Energy Authority Ireland:
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In addition, 5 of the best recently established companies have been selected to be profiled:
EMERGING NEW BUSINESSES (up to 50 employees and under 2 years in business), sponsored by the County and City Enterprise Boards:
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All of the finalists this year will receive a comprehensive management training prize comprising firstly of a Strategic Management Masterclass. This will take the format of a residential weekend where finalists will be immersed in an entrepreneurial environment. They will also receive a full day Interactive Media Skills training programme. The overall winner will receive €5,000 cash, enhanced PR profile and lifetime membership of the SFA.
The awards will be presented by Awards Patron, An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, TD, to all category winners and the Overall Winner at a Gala Event in March 2012.