Deadline Date: February 27, 2026
The Entrepreneur of The Year Program celebrates ambitious entrepreneurs who are shaping the future, and building a more equitable, sustainable and prosperous world for all.
Participants can form valuable relationships with fellow entrepreneurs who are leading successful companies across a wide range of industries, creating space for collaboration, shared insight, and long-term partnerships.
Taking part also increases visibility among potential customers, suppliers, and investors. It provides a platform to highlight business achievements, recognize company success within the local market, and celebrate the dedication and impact of the team behind the organization.
Participants gain access to exclusive peer-to-peer learning and networking experiences designed to support growth and leadership development. In addition, entrepreneurs can connect with EY subject-matter professionals who offer guidance on strengthening strategy, innovation, and long-term value creation.
Eligibility focuses on both the entrepreneur and the company. The entrepreneur must serve as the CEO or president of a private or public company and be primarily responsible for the company’s recent performance. Eligible leaders may be original founders, multigenerational family business heads, or transformational CEOs of companies or subsidiaries, even if they are not the original founders.
Candidates must have held their leadership role for at least two years by the application deadline. Previous finalists and applicants who did not win are welcome to reapply, and former award winners may also apply again if they have founded or transitioned to a new company.
To qualify, companies must have been operating for a minimum of two years and demonstrate strong growth, long-term value creation, and clear plans for future expansion. Only for-profit businesses are eligible, and companies must meet a minimum revenue threshold of ten million dollars.
For more information, visit Ernst and Young.
