EY Names 525 Finalists for Entrepreneur of the Year Awards

Event summary

  • EY US announced 525 finalists for the 2026 Entrepreneur of the Year Regional Awards across 17 regions.
  • The Entrepreneur of the Year program has recognized over 11,000 entrepreneurs globally since 1986.
  • Regional winners will be announced throughout June, with national awards presented in November at the Strategic Growth Forum.
  • Finalists were selected based on criteria including entrepreneurial spirit, company growth, and impact.

The big picture

EY's Entrepreneur of the Year program serves as a key marketing tool, reinforcing the firm's brand as a champion of innovation and growth. The program's longevity and global reach demonstrate the ongoing demand for recognition and networking opportunities among ambitious business leaders. The selection process and subsequent community access are designed to cultivate client relationships and generate referral business for EY's broader suite of services.

What we're watching

Selection Bias
The criteria for selection, while broad, may disproportionately favor companies aligned with EY's consulting and advisory services, potentially skewing the representation of truly disruptive businesses.
Ecosystem Impact
The long-term value of the 'lifetime membership' within the EY entrepreneurial ecosystem will depend on the actual resources and network access provided, and whether it translates to tangible business benefits for award winners.
Forum Attendance
The Strategic Growth Forum’s continued relevance hinges on attracting a diverse and influential group of high-growth CEOs and investors, and whether it remains a valuable networking and deal-making opportunity.