It’s the only global programme of its kind, shining a light on individuals whose innovation, leadership and ambition shape both industries and communities.
Each year, the programme begins at a regional and country level and concludes with a competition, and finally an announcement of the winners across three categories: industry, innovation and overall.
In October 2025, the UK finalists were announced for this year’s programme, highlighting the entrepreneurs and businesses that continue to push boundaries, drive innovation and create meaningful change.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025, announce the UK finalists, and provide the key facts and insights into what makes these businesses stand out. We’ll also share how our expert services at Awards Intelligence could give you the competitive edge when being considered for such prestigious business awards.
About EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™
Honouring founders, leaders and CEOs, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ celebrates individuals for their excellence in areas such as social responsibility, innovation, financial performance, as well as personal commitment to their businesses and communities. It also aims to connect and support entrepreneurs as they strive to achieve their ambitions, building valuable networks for long-lasting success.
The award recognises outstanding individuals across 79 countries and territories, securing its position as a global leader in celebrating entrepreneurship, platforming the exceptional leaders who are redefining what it means to build and scale successful businesses.
All winners are selected by an independent panel of judges, each of whom is an innovative and successful entrepreneur themselves, meaning they can uphold the highest standards for the award.
In the UK, the programme celebrates regional finalists before selecting national winners who progress to the global stage. Candidates are judged across a range of criteria, including entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, purpose, impact and growth.
Dr. Ben Maruthappu of Cera Care was crowned the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2024 UK overall winner, awarded for his work in healthcare innovation and helping people in Europe live longer, healthier, better lives.
For 2025, finalists have been selected from entries representing 84 businesses across five regions, resulting in a shortlist of 11 national finalists who represent the best of British entrepreneurship.
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025: UK Finalist Shortlist
The 2025 UK finalist shortlist, announced in October, features individuals from a diverse range of sectors, covering everything from sustainable energy and healthcare to technology, food, and education. Together, these businesses represent over £3.6 billion in combined revenue and employ more than 20,000 people across the country.
Here’s a list of the 11 finalists who have been recognised for their leadership, forward-thinking vision and innovations in driving business success:
- Hugh Pile: Blue Skies, a sustainable business selling fresh fruit, ice cream and juice that aims to return value to the communities that produce it.
- James O’Loan and Ricardo Laverty: Chemist4U, one of the UK’s largest online pharmacies, making everyday healthcare more accessible.
- Mia Drennan: GLAS (Global Loan Agency Services Limited), works as an independent provider of debt administration services, with market-wide recognition.
- Helen Cannon: ISON Management, corporate travel management with exceptional service.
- Clare Roberts: Kids Planet Day Nurseries, nursery care and early years education that provide a unique environment for children to learn and explore.
- Gill Pearson: Newberry International Produce, specialists in sourcing and supplying fresh frozen fruit and vegetables.
- Eugene Tsyrklevich: Parkopedia, one of the world’s leading in-car services providers, helping drivers find parking, EV charging, fuel and tolls easily and conveniently.
- Scott Monks: Rocksteady Music School, known for their inclusive approach to in-school band lessons for primary-age children.
- Simmy Dhillon: Simmer Eats, which seeks to deliver nourishment and delight through healthy food that is easy and convenient.
- Owen Coyle and Michael Sweeney: Union Technical Services, specialists in a variety of energy-efficient solutions, which are designed to save customers money, all while protecting our planet.
- Dr Somayeh Taheri: UrbanChain, revolutionising how energy works by connecting renewable generators to real-life users.
Why These Businesses Stand Out
Each and every UK finalist has demonstrated a clear commitment to innovation, impact and purpose-driven leadership.
- Innovation: Many finalists have pioneered new technologies or business models. For example, UrbanChain is redefining how clean energy works, while Simmer Eats is working to make sure that ready meals are not only delicious but good for you.
- Growth: Finalists like Kids Planet Day Nurseries have achieved significant national expansion, all while maintaining strong values and customer trust.
- Sustainability and impact: From Blue Skies’ community-first supply chain to Union Technical Services’ role in energy efficiency, sustainability sits at the heart of their missions.
Ally Scott, Entrepreneur Of The Year UK, Co-Partner Lead, says that this year’s UK finalists embody “resilience and creativity in the face of challenges.”, all while “contributing significantly to job creation and economic growth across the UK.”
They’ve made it this far because each and every one of them represents what it means to be entrepreneurial in our rapidly changing world, remaining agile, ambitious, and grounded by their people-first purpose.
The UK national winner will be announced at a celebration dinner on 20 November 2025, before representing the country at the EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Awards.
The Power of Recognition
Being named a finalist for EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 means so much more than just a badge of honour. It represents entry into a prestigious community of leaders and innovators who are inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Finalists gain:
- Elevated visibility for your business
- Networking opportunities with peers
- An exclusive membership to their global entrepreneurial network and growth opportunities
- An opportunity to celebrate your achievements, as well as publicly recognise the contributions of your team who made it all possible.
- Access to a community of leadership through access to advisors, exclusive alumni events, speaking engagements, media profiles and interviews.
How to Stand Out in Award Submissions
Business awards are one of the most powerful tools for enhancing brand credibility, attracting investors and inspiring your team.
But where should you start?
An entry crafted by Awards Intelligence could give your business the competitive edge when it comes to highly-coveted, prestigious awards. Our dedicated team can help entrepreneurs and businesses like yours identify the most relevant awards for your offering, draft compelling entries, and maximise your potential for being recognised for your achievements.
Whether you’re the founder of a start-up or looking to scale your business, we can support you in positioning your business for national, and even global, success.
Looking Ahead: Get in Touch Today
The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ programme continues to highlight the vital role of entrepreneurs in driving economic growth, sustainability, and innovation in the UK.
If you’re feeling inspired, why not plan your own award journey for 2026? Get in touch with our expert team at Awards Intelligence to discover how we can help you gain the recognition your business deserves.