South Dublin celebrates Entrepreneurial success at the Local Enterprise Awards

South Dublin Local Enterprise Office (LEO) celebrated the outstanding achievements and entrepreneurial spirit of local businesses at the Local Enterprise Awards South Dublin 2026 which took place at The Maldron Hotel, Tallaght on Thursday, 5th March.

Hosted by Noel Davidson of The Entrepreneurs Academy, the event drew an audience of 57 shortlisted businesses, accompanied by their colleagues, family, and friends.

The proceedings commenced with an official opening address by Mayor Pamela Kearns, followed by Peter Connolly, Head of LEO South Dublin, who both highlighted the pivotal role of entrepreneurship within the county.

The awards recognised nine category winners:

• One to Watch: Nexus Inclusion – Kyran O’Mahony
• Creative Economy (Scene): Mimink Studios – Miriam Cassidy
• NEWS – Female Entrepreneur of the Year: Dr. Torun’s Clinic – Dr. Elif Torun
• Tech / Innovation: Technotraining Ltd – Aisling Milton & Derek Waters
• Green Award: Forager – Fiona Foran
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: TheCleaningCompany.ie – Luke Joyce
• Food & Drink: Kahuna Pops – Ian Downes
• Export: Swifter – James Madden & Nadia Power
• Start-up: Tutor Growth Limited (Dublin Maths) – Sean Langan

Each category winner was awarded €1,000.

The Overall winner was Áine Kennedy of The Smooth Company who collected a €5,000 prize and she will go on to represent LEO South Dublin in the National LEO Awards, taking place in June.

Addressing the audience, Peter Connolly remarked. “These awards highlight the incredible entrepreneurial talent we have here in South Dublin.

‘I commend all the winners, shortlisted businesses, and everyone who entered for the important contribution they make to our local economy.

Celebrating entrepreneurship and innovation, the annual Local Enterprise Awards South Dublin 2026 showcase the vibrant enterprise landscape and the diverse talent and variety of business start-ups in the county.

“These awards serve as a platform to showcase, support and promote the spirit of enterprise both locally and nationally attracted an exceptional level of interest this year, with a record number of applications received.