Bizstartup.ie - NewsShannon exporter scoops National Enterprise Award

Set up by Joe O’ Donovan and Paul O’ Beirne in 2001, and nominated by the Clare County Enterprise Board, Callan Technology manufactures a range of servo-motors, used in machinery in 26 countries, across the US, Asia and Europe.

Dermot O’ Shea from Taoglas in Wexford, which provides radio frequency solutions for the wireless communications industry, took the runner-up award.

Organised by the County and City Enterprise Board, the National Enterprise Awards reward and recognises outstanding micro-enterprises.

Energy of small enterprises


Congratulating the finalists for the National Enterprise Award, Minister for Trade and Commerce Billy Kelleher TD said: “This is a fantastic celebration of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship at a time when businesses in Ireland are under extreme pressure and, indeed, at a time when many people are anxious and uncertain about the current economic climate.

“This event allows us to acknowledge the energy of small enterprise in the Irish economy and the energy and capabilities of Irish entrepreneurs.

“It gives us the opportunity to be optimistic and positive about our future. By working together, hopefully we can bring about a change in fortunes,” Minister Kelleher added.

Small business sector key to economic recovery


The other finalists who were shortlisted this year were Tony Broderick from Danelle Recycling in Carlow, Paul Clarke from Gilmore Clarke Electrical in Cavan, Denis Sheridan from D.S. Environmental Services in Donegal, Joy Moore from Oldtown Hill Bakehouse in Kilkenny, Barry Usher from Usher Aviation in Sligo and Ken McNevin and Stephen Nolan from Robotic and Drives Services in Westmeath.

Michael Tunney, chair of the Network of County and City Enterprise Boards, said the finalists were judged on ‘Business Plan’, ‘Marketing Strength’, ‘Financial Strength’, ‘Use of Technology & Innovation’ as well as the ‘Entrepreneurial Skills of the Promoter’.

“The role of the small-business sector is crucial in helping Ireland to follow the road for recovery. The small businesses showcased at this year’s National Enterprise Awards are clearly leading the way,” he added.

This article first appeared on Businessandleadership.com.

Pictured at the County and City Enterprise Boards' National Enterprise Awards ceremony, held in Dublin Castle on 10 November, were, from left: Michael Tunney, chair of the network of County and City Enterprise Boards, who presented the overall award to Paul O’Beirne and Joe O’Donovan of Callan Technology. The National Enterprise Awards is an annual competition for micro-enterprises in Ireland and is run by County and City Enterprise Boards to recognise the outstanding achievements of small businesses