Kildare businesses and leaders shortlisted for business awards

Business & Finance, in association with KPMG, has announced the shortlist for the 52nd annual Business & Finance Awards 2026, which will take place at the Convention Centre Dublin on Thursday, December 10 2026.

This year's awards have attracted a significant increase in entries; the surge in participation reflects the continued strength, ambition and diversity of Ireland's business community.

A significant development for 2026 is the introduction of the Digital Transformation Award, recognising businesses that are successfully embracing digital technologies to transform operations, improve customer experiences, increase productivity and create new opportunities for growth.

Now in its 52nd year, the Business & Finance Awards remains Ireland's longest-running and most prestigious business recognition platform, honouring exceptional companies and individuals whose achievements contribute to Ireland's economic success and international reputation.

The annual awards ceremony will welcome more than 1,000 business, political, civic and social leaders from Ireland and around the world to celebrate outstanding achievement, leadership and innovation across Irish and international business.

Among the Kildare names recognised are:

• Edmond Scanlon, Kerry Group – Business Person of the Year
• Tom Donnellan, BnM – Business Person of the Year
• Kerry Group – Company of the Year
• Whitewater Group – Elevation Company of the Year
• Intel – FDI Company of the Year
• BnM – ESG Business of the Year
• also Clare MacNamme from Clane founder of TrailblazHER at TU Dublin has been short listed for Diversity, Equality & Inclusion (DE&I)

Ian Hyland, President and Publisher, Business & Finance, said; "The exceptional response to this year's Business & Finance Awards, with a significant increase in entries, is a powerful reflection of the ambition, resilience and confidence of Ireland's business community. What is particularly encouraging is not simply the volume of submissions, but the outstanding calibre of the companies and individuals being recognised.

"This year's awards will also be particularly special as we honour two extraordinary Irish figures whose influence extends far beyond our shores. We are delighted to recognise Ambassador Samantha Power with the TK Whitaker Award for Outstanding Contribution to Ireland & Public Life, and Sir Bob Geldof with the prestigious Sutherland Leadership Award. Both have demonstrated exceptional leadership, courage and a lifelong commitment to making a difference on the international stage.

Ryan McCarthy, Managing Partner, KPMG Ireland, said: “Ireland’s success is built on ambitious people and businesses that are prepared to innovate and adapt. As AI and technology reshape how we compete, the Digital Transformation Award recognises businesses turning that change into real opportunity. The quality of this year’s entries reflects the strength of Irish business today. At KPMG, we’re proud to support the Business & Finance Awards and to celebrate those helping to shape Ireland’s future.”

For more information, visit: www.businessandfinanceawards.com