Mayo's innovators are invited to enter their disruptive new services or products in the prestigious Innovation Awards 2018.
From start-ups led by enterprising individuals to multinationals and every scale of business or organisation in between, the aim of the Innovation Awards is to recognise and reward disruptors from all across the island.
Now in its ninth year, The Irish Times Innovation Awards showcase excellence in innovation across a wide spectrum. This year entries are invited in five categories covering: life sciences and healthcare, IT and fintech, sustainability, manufacturing and design, and new frontiers. Entry to the awards is free and the closing date is Friday, June 29.
Shortlisted firms will be chosen by an expert panel of judges and the finalists announced in early September. These innovators will then present to a panel of prestigious business leaders and innovators, with the winners being announced at a gala event in October.
Michael McAleer, innovation editor at The Irish Times, said the launch marks the start of an island-wide search for the best innovations that Ireland has to offer in 2018. “Innovation is a hugely important driver of our economy and its important to recognise and reward the contributions that the champions of innovation make," he added.
"We would strongly encourage all companies and innovative entrepreneurs to avail of this opportunity to showcase their innovation and benefit from the exposure and recognition that comes with participation in this annual event. That exposure and recognition can help innovators stand out from the crowd when it comes to securing future customers and even investment.”
“Look at last year’s winner, Kastus. A spin-out from DIT, it produces an antimicrobial spray coating which can be applied to glass and ceramics during or after manufacture or added to plastics and paint. The company has had a remarkable year, closing out a €3 million venture funding round with plans to increase its headcount significantly as it scales up its sales and marketing operations.”
Along with the national and international recognition the winners receive, and the impact it has on attracting potential investors, each category winner will receive a communications package worth €10,000.
The overall Innovation of the Year will win a unique communications package worth in excess of €150,000 and a scholarship for all three executive development courses from UCD Smurfit School commencing in 2019.
For more information on the awards, a look at previous winners, and hints and tips on how to enter go to www.irishtimes.com/innovationawards, follow @ITInnovationmag, or email [email protected].
