Group launches awards aimed at celebrating role of small business

The Small Firms’ Association launched its business awards yesterday aiming to celebrate the achievements of small business in Ireland.

The awards were launched by Taoiseach Enda Kenny who said that small business make a vital contribution and are key to the creation of jobs.

“Supporting job creation is the absolute top priority of the Government. As everyone knows, the Government cannot create jobs, only successful businesses and entrepreneurs can do that, and I am happy to support the SFA awards which recognise the special contribution made by the small business sector,” he said.

This year’s awards include two new categories: A young people in business award and an emerging business category.

The SFA felt it was important to recognise enterprising young people as well as the five best businesses that have been operating for less than two years. They will be judged on their potential to grow.

SFA chairman Ian Martin said last year’s participants had shown the importance of small businesses to the economy.

“It was great to see so many small companies positively focused on the growth of their business last year. These wonderful companies showed that small business will be the vital force in our economy in the coming years. Last year’s finalists employed almost 900 people.”

Entries to the awards will be accepted until 5.30pm on Oct 26, and entry forms are available at sfa.ie/awards.

Following the application process, category finalists will be announced in December. The presentation to the award winners will take place at a gala ceremony in March.