EY unveils 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year category winners

Pictured above: Sam Bridgewater (left) and Maia Royal of The Pure Food Co.

Ernst & Young New Zealand has named the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024 category winners, celebrating innovators like Michael Walker, Craig Piggott and Sam Bridgewater. The winners will now vie for the national title and a spot in the global competition.

The finalists in this year’s EY Entrepreneur of the Year awards highlight the rich diversity of New Zealand’s entrepreneurial landscape, with a clear emphasis on innovation and creating a better future.

Now the 16 finalists have been narrowed down to the top five entrepreneurs across five categories. They are: Michael Walker of BlackBull Markets, Craig Piggott of Halter, Miria Flavell of HINE Collection, Sam Bridgewater and Maia Royal of The Pure Food Co, and Jonny Hendriksen of Shuttlerock. Additionally, Ehsan Vaghefi of Toku Eyes received a Highly Commended title.

Jason Macgregor, Director of EY Entrepreneur of the Year, New Zealand, praised the finalists for their exceptional contributions. “Our finalists demonstrate the wide range of entrepreneurial talent in New Zealand. Each winner exhibits traits of determination, intense focus, and an unwavering drive for success,” he says. “This year, we saw a strong emphasis on social issues and a remarkable willingness to take risks while prioritizing wellbeing.”

Cecilia Robinson, Chair of Judges for the 2024 competition and an alumna of the programme, highlighted the winners’ resilience amidst a challenging economic climate. “Despite a highly competitive field, our winners stood out due to their perseverance and ability to thrive in a tough environment,” she says. “They have effectively addressed societal issues, discovered their niche, and combined passion with purpose to achieve success.”

Robinson also notes that the winners’ achievements extend beyond national borders. “Each of this year’s winners has not only made an impact locally but has also expanded their influence globally. Their innovations address critical challenges, and their leadership will inspire future entrepreneurs,” she adds.

The category winners will now vie for the title of EY Entrepreneur of the Year™ 2024. They will be evaluated by a panel of independent judges, all previous EY Entrepreneur of the Year award winners, based on four key criteria: entrepreneurial spirit, impact, growth, and purpose. The ultimate winner will represent New Zealand in the World Entrepreneur of the Year competition, set to be announced in June 2025.

Category winners