Professional services firm EY Australia has opened up nominations for its annual EY Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) national awards to recognise the risk takers, innovators and bold thinkers of Australia’s entrepreneurship scene. The awards serve as a beacon of inspiration for all aspiring entrepreneurs and established business leaders alike.
Entries are open until April 17, 2026, and the judging criteria are designed to evaluate a comprehensive range of factors. These include business growth, innovative business models and technology integration, sustainable practices that benefit the environment, enhanced employee experiences, and purpose-driven initiatives that contribute positively to local communities.
Since its national launch in 2001, EOY has evolved to become one of Australia’s leading business awards. It celebrates entrepreneurs who are making significant impacts across diverse industries, generating employment opportunities and driving economic and social progress both here and abroad. The awards highlight entrepreneurial spirit, creativity, and resilience, showcasing the best of Australian business.
Previous winners have included trailblazers and influencers behind some of Australia’s most iconic business success stories. Notable figures such as Jo Horgan from Mecca, Mike Cannon-Brookes and Scott Farquhar of Atlassian, and Ben Thompson from Employment Hero exemplify the caliber of individuals celebrated by this prestigious award. Each of these entrepreneurs has not only built successful businesses but has also contributed to the broader community, setting a benchmark for others to aspire to.
Last year’s top Entrepreneur Of The Year award was awarded to Laurent Boillon, the visionary behind Laurent Bakery, a market leader in the bread manufacturing sector. Boillon’s journey exemplifies the resilience and creativity that the Entrepreneur Of The Year award seeks to highlight.
WATCH: Laurent Boillon, Entrepreneur Of The Year (post continues after video)
As Colin McNeil, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year program leader, aptly puts it: “Entrepreneurs forge new paths, ignite change, and light the way toward a better world. Their stories help all of us see the world not as it is, but for what it could be, and that is the true artistry of entrepreneurship.” This perspective underscores the transformative power of entrepreneurial ventures.
National finalists will be announced throughout June, followed by an intensive preparation phase from June to August. During this period, finalists will participate in coaching sessions designed to help refine their final submissions. Each finalist will also have the opportunity to collaborate with a professional photo and videography team, creating campaigns that showcase their unique business journeys to the world. See the 2025 finalists’ videos here.
Winners will be recognized across various categories: Emerging, Industry, Consumer, Social Impact, and Technology. The overall national winner will be announced during an illustrious black-tie gala event on October 22, gathering industry leaders, peers, and alumni in celebration of entrepreneurial excellence.
The selected overall winner will not only claim national recognition but will also represent Australia in the 2027 EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards
in Monaco. This global stage features national winners from over 60 countries, making it a profound opportunity for any entrepreneur.
Finalists in the EOY program will benefit from ongoing connections with Australia’s leading entrepreneurs and business leaders. To further support their growth, they will receive tailored business mentorship, attend the EY 7 Drivers of Growth workshop sessions, and participate in exclusive Q&A sessions. This network aims to foster a collaborative environment where knowledge and resources can be shared, enhancing business strategies and opportunities.
In fact, finalists will join a remarkable community of over 1,700 Australian entrepreneurs who are part of the global EOY network, offering a wealth of resources and connections that can propel their ventures to new heights.
Apply now for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year awards here and become part of a vibrant movement that celebrates innovation, resilience, and transformative leadership. Startup Daily is proud to serve as the media partner for the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year program.
View all the videos and articles from last year’s awards here:
