The Future Entrepreneur Competition by BMW Ireland is back for 2026 and is looking for applications from small Irish businesses across all sectors
BMW Ireland has announced the return of its BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition for 2026, a nationwide initiative designed to support and spotlight Ireland’s most promising businesses.
The competition invites applications from small Irish businesses across all sectors, with a particular focus on innovation, sustainability and forward-thinking 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.
Following 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 enhanced programme aimed at championing the next generation of Irish entrepreneurs.
Showing leadership
For 2026, BMW Ireland is partnering with Entrepreneur and Skingredients Founder and CEO, Jennifer Rock, who joins the initiative as the entrepreneur voice on the judging panel. Known for her expertise in skincare, education and brand building, Jennifer brings valuable real-world insight and a strong commitment to supporting emerging Irish businesses.
Grand prize
As part of the prize, the winning businesses will receive the use of a fully electric branded BMW, along with tailored mentoring support and a brand development package. This includes professional photo and video content, as well as promotional support across BMW Ireland’s social and digital platforms.
Helen Westby, managing director of BMW Ireland, said: “We are delighted to launch the 2026 BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and fostering future-focused ideas that can drive meaningful change.”
Michael O’Dea, senior client adviser, startup unit at Enterprise Ireland said: “At Enterprise Ireland, we are delighted to support the BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition for the second year running. Multinational Companies like BMW have been incredibly supportive of Irish startups over a number of years, and events like this provide huge value for the wider ecosystem. By fostering collaboration between global brands and indigenous talent, we can continue to champion the innovation and sustainability that drive the future of Irish enterprise.”
Jennifer Rock added: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be involved in this year’s BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition. To have the opportunity to guide and mentor fellow business owners is something I feel strongly about. Building a business comes with so many challenges, and initiatives like this are so important in giving entrepreneurs visibility, guidance and confidence to take the next step.”
This initiative reinforces BMW Ireland’s commitment to innovation, sustainability and supporting the future of Irish enterprise.
Enter now
Applications for the BMW Future Entrepreneur Competition 2026 are now open until midnight on 10 May 2026, with further details on how to apply at
discover.bmw.ie. Terms and conditions apply.
