One of the most valuable resources available to any start-up entrepreneur is access to a network of other entrepreneurs who can open doors through trusted referrals. For women in particular, access to appropriate networks and role models remains a challenge, with many women identifying it as a barrier to success. Awarding and recognising female role models is vitally important. It shines a light on their journey to success and whilst that journey is not always smooth, it is inspirational, has changed the course of their lives, has demonstrated a path to success and can inspire others to reach their full potential. Enterprise Ireland, through its ambitious women initiative is delighted to have sponsored several female entrepreneur awards in 2013. We applaud the winners and congratulate all of the applicants who have taken the time to promote their success and the successes of their businesses. Below is a summary of some of our winners:
Overall Winner: IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year 2013
Caroline Keeling, CEO, Keeling’s
Keelings started producing fruits and salads on their farm in 1930s. As CEO of Keeling’s Caroline leads the Keeling Group which is now made up of five divisions and has operations in Ireland, UK, Europe and Asia. Photo Credit: Kieran Harnett
The IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year Awards: Start-Up
Marissa Carter, Founder and Creative Director, Cocoa Brown.
Marissa is a regular media contributor as a beauty expert and business owner, her business has seen considerable growth in 2013 through the cocoa brown tanning range with one product sold every three minutes across Ireland and UK. Photo Credit: Kieran Harnett
The IMAGE Businesswoman of the Year Awards: Entrepreneurship
Linda Kiely, Co-Founder, Voxpro
Linda is responsible for shaping the business strategy and driving growth. Linda manages Voxpro’s CSR activity and has raised over €250,000 for Cork Charities in the last three years. Photo Credit: Kieran Harnett
Enterprise Ireland Life Sciences & Food Commercialisation Award
Prof. Louise Kenny, Metabolomic Diagnostics.
Professor Kenny won the award for developing and commercialising the first predictive diagnosis for pre-eclampsia in early pregnancy. A new company called Metabolomics Diagnostics Ltd. has been built around the test and aims to create 40 jobs.
Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards
Leonora O’Brien, Pharmapod
Pharmapod is a secure cloud-based Medication related Incident Management software designed specifically for pharmacists, by pharmacists.
The Enterprise Ireland WMB Female Entrepreneur 2013
Kira Walton, VOYA
VOYA is a family-owned, Irish business, and produces one of the world's first range of luxury certified organic seaweed-based products and therapies, with a full range of innovative treatments and supporting professional products. Kira manages product development and innovation with her eye on new international markets.
The Enterprise Ireland and Cleaveland Clinic Clinical Innovation Award
Julia O'Rourke, Rempad.
Julia won this award for her the development of Rempad, a new software tool which uses multi-media content to connect carers and residents with memories from the past to enhance the overall wellbeing of nursing home residents suffering from Alzheimer’s.
