SFA launches National Small Business Awards

The inaugural SFA National Small Business Awards, partnered by O2 Ireland and Bank of Ireland Business Banking, were officially launched by the Taoiseach Bertie Ahern in Government Buildings.

The awards aim to celebrate the achievements of small businesses in Ireland, and to recognise the vital contribution of the small business sector to Irish industry.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Ahern said that: "the importance of small businesses to the Irish economy cannot be underestimated.

“They represent the seedbed of innovation and creativity that have driven much of our economic development in recent years.”

As well as the main partners, Bank of Ireland and O2, sponsorship for individual category awards is being provided by FedEx, Enterprise Ireland, O'Briens Irish Sandwich Bars, FÁS and Cellular World.

SFA Chairwoman & Awards Director Angela Kennedy said: "A lot of people pay lip service to the importance of small firms in Ireland.

“More than 50% of investment in this country comes from the 178,000 small enterprises that form the backbone of the Irish business community, creating over 146,000 jobs and producing 60% of gross domestic product."