Exporter of the Year

Supported by:

The Finalists in the Exporter of the Year category of the SFA Awards 2026 are:

Congratulations to all finalists!

Judging Criteria for this category:
This category aims to award outstanding achievement in companies who currently export from the island of Ireland. The company should have a proven track record in export, demonstrate its current export strategy including plans for growth in existing and new markets.

Entry Requirements:
Award entrants must comply with the following entry criteria:

  • All small businesses may enter up to a maximum of 50 employees. (This includes staff employed in the company on a fixed-term contract basis in excess of 12 months, and part-time staff who work in excess of 20 hours per week but excluding temporary agency workers).
  • Be in operation at least 2 years in the Republic of Ireland.
  • Not be a branch of another business.
  • Franchises can enter.
  • Businesses/individuals can be nominated by other associated professionals (e.g. professional advisers, training providers, accountants etc.).

2026 Prize Package:

All Finalists

  • A comprehensive strategic masterclass weekend sponsored by Skillnet Ireland which will include communications, media and presentation skills training
  • An interview/profile in a specially commissioned Irish Independent Awards Supplement
  • Free participation in SFA Business Connect Event
  • Three complementary tickets to the Gala Awards Ceremony
  • A finalist certificate

Category Winners

  • Award trophy - presented at a Gala Awards Ceremony
  • Free membership of the Small Firms Association in 2026

Overall Winner

  • The Overall Winner will be presented with a winner trophy at the RDS for the Gala Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 05 March 2026
Be contacted in September, when applications open for 2027