Application Deadline: Friday, 11th September 2026 at 5:00 P.M.
Award Summary: Recognises ambitious start-ups and high-growth businesses that have demonstrated innovation, commercial success and exceptional potential for future growth.
Judges assess: Innovation, commercial performance, leadership, growth potential, business strategy and overall business impact.
Award Description:
The Start-Up/Scale-Up Business of the Year Award celebrates ambitious businesses that are turning innovative ideas into commercial success.
Whether you are introducing a pioneering product or service, expanding into new markets or experiencing significant business growth, this award recognises organisations demonstrating vision, resilience and the potential to become tomorrow’s business leaders.
The judges are looking for businesses that combine entrepreneurial ambition with strong commercial foundations, innovation and a clear strategy for sustainable growth.
Businesses from every sector are encouraged to enter.
Why Enter?
Being shortlisted or winning this award provides an outstanding opportunity to raise your business profile, celebrate your team’s achievements and gain recognition as one of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown’s most exciting businesses.
Recognition through the DLR Chamber Business Awards enhances credibility with customers, investors and business partners while creating valuable marketing and networking opportunities.
What the Judges Will Look For
Judges will assess applicants based on:
- A clear business vision and growth strategy.
- Innovation and originality.
- Commercial performance and market traction.
- Leadership and management capability.
- Future growth potential.
- Overall contribution to the local economy.
Eligibility to enter:
To be eligible, a business must:
- Have a primary business location in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown.
- Be actively trading.
- Have commenced trading within the last five years.
- Demonstrate measurable commercial progress.
- Be able to provide evidence supporting the application.
Special Considerations
Businesses less than 12 months old that can demonstrate exceptional progress through customer acquisition, investment, product launches or significant commercial achievements may be considered at the discretion of the judging panel.
Businesses incorporated more than five years ago but only commencing commercial trading within the last five years may also be considered where appropriate.
Start-Up/Scale-Up Business of the Year
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Dún Laoghaire Chamber Business Awards
Thursday, 12th November 2026 | Royal Marine Hotel
Dress: Black Tie
Application Deadline: Friday, 11th September 2026 at 5:00 P.M.