A number of agri, equine, food and drink startups and entrepreneurs have been announced among the finalists for this year’s National Enterprise Awards.

I/O Agri founded, by Shane O'Reilly and Sandra Thompson from Co Cavan, has been selected as one of the finalists.

The company develops sustainable agri tech solutions that reduce agricultural odours and emissions.

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I/O Agri is able to capture damaging animal emissions in sheds and turn it into a by-product for biogas and SAF production for farmers.

Its technology supports greener, more productive farming through innovative systems for ventilation, heating, milling and feed management, while providing on-farm data monitoring to help farmers meet environmental targets.

Some of the other finalists include:

  • Equi-Ed Ltd - a leading provider of science-based equine education, delivering innovative online courses and professional certifications to horse owners and industry professionals.
  • RYSE Chocolate - an Irish caffeinated chocolate energy bar, designed to combine real chocolate with a smooth, long-lasting caffeine boost.
  • Óir Tonics - blends traditional Irish seaweed practices and modern whole-food wellness with Moss Boss Tonic, Ireland’s first liquid seaweed food supplement.
  • The Rug Rack® Company - designs and manufactures innovative, patent-pending equestrian storage solutions that protect horse rugs, optimise stable space and improve hygiene.
  • Blarney Brewing Company - is leading the way in sustainable brewing, supplying a range of high-quality craft beers to Irish and export markets.
  • The Cultured Food Company - an Irish producer specialising in fermented vegetables such as kimchi and sauerkraut.
  • Now Coco - a fast-growing Irish wellness beverage brand redefining coconut water with clean-label, naturally sourced ingredients.
  • SiSú - a family-owned business offering a range of better-for-you products from cold-pressed juices to wellness shots, organic kombucha, plant-based milks and overnight oats.
  • Le Skinny Chef - produces award-winning, chef-developed, plant-based pesto, sauces and concentrated soups for retail and food service markets.

    • Impact

    “Every one of these finalists [has] the potential to scale, create jobs in their communities and make a significant impact internationally,” Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke commented.

    “These awards shine a light on the amazing businesses that are starting and growing across the country year on year and we should be extremely proud of the level of founders that Ireland is producing.

    "The previous winners and indeed finalists have shown the calibre of these awards and it’s exciting to see where these businesses can and will go in the future.”

    The awards, now in their 26th year, are an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices, funded by the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment.

    A total prize fund of €80,000 is up for grabs and along with the overall national enterprise of the year winner, there are categories for best startup, best export business, an innovation award, a digital award, a green award and a female entrepreneur award.

    An outstanding achievement award will also be presented on the night to an Irish business which started with the support of its Local Enterprise Office and has gone on to achieve international success.