The BMW Ireland Future Entrepreneur Competition returns for 2026 and is inviting applications from Ireland’s small businesses across every sector
BMW Ireland has confirmed the return of the BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition for 2026, a nationwide program aimed at backing and highlighting Ireland’s most promising enterprises.
The competition welcomes entries from small Irish firms across all sectors, with a particular emphasis on innovation, sustainability and forward-looking ideas that have the potential to scale.
It’s delivered in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and will culminate in a networking lunch on Thursday 4 June at Cliff at Lyons, Co Kildare, where finalists will come together with BMW representatives, industry leaders and competition partners.
Building on the success of its inaugural year, which saw Irish brands Urban Aran and BiaSol recognised for their innovation, sustainability and creativity, the competition returns with an expanded programme aimed at championing the next generation of Irish entrepreneurs.
Showing leadership
For 2026, BMW Ireland has teamed with Entrepreneur and Skingredients Founder and CEO, Jennifer Rock, who joins the initiative as the entrepreneur voice on the judging panel. Known for her work in skincare, education and brand building, Jennifer brings practical insights and a strong commitment to supporting emerging Irish businesses.
Grand prize
The prize package includes the use of a fully electric branded BMW, plus bespoke mentoring and a brand development bundle. This encompasses professional photo and video content, along with promotional support across BMW Ireland’s social and digital channels.
Helen Westby, managing director of BMW Ireland, commented: “We are thrilled to launch the 2026 BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition. This initiative mirrors our ongoing commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and cultivating forward-thinking ideas that can drive meaningful change.”
Michael O’Dea, senior client adviser, startup unit at Enterprise Ireland said: “At Enterprise Ireland, we’re delighted to back the BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition for a second year. Multinational companies like BMW have shown strong support for Irish startups over many years, and events like this deliver immense value to the broader ecosystem. By encouraging collaboration between global brands and homegrown talent, we can continue to champion the innovation and sustainability that will shape the future of Irish enterprise.”
Rock added: “I’m genuinely excited to be part of this year’s BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition. Having the chance to guide and mentor fellow business owners means a lot to me. Building a business comes with numerous hurdles, and initiatives like this are crucial for giving entrepreneurs visibility, direction and confidence to advance.”
This initiative further underscores BMW Ireland’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and backing the future of Irish enterprise.
Enter now
Applications for the BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition 2026 are currently open until midnight on 10 May 2026, with further details on how to apply at
discover.bmw.ie. Terms and conditions apply.
