The Local Enterprise Week ended in style yesterday with the highly anticipated Louth Enterprise Awards at The Monasterboice Inn. Hosted in partnership with Louth County Council, the event remains a highlight of the week, celebrating the innovation, creativity, and resilience of Louth’s business community.

This annual celebration of enterprise in the county brings together business owners, mentors, industry representatives, and support agencies to recognise outstanding achievements in business. Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr. Kevin Callan, and newly appointed Chief Executive David Conway opened the ceremony, reinforcing the vital role of entrepreneurship in Louth’s economic growth.

Broadcaster Gerry Kelly expertly led the proceedings, featuring an insightful interview with international business strategist Miriam Simon. She explored key trends, including VUCA, authenticity, collaboration, and the evolving opportunities and risks of AI.

Then, the moment the audience had been waiting for arrived. MC Gerry Kelly announced and interviewed this year’s award winners.

Fierce Mild Brewing Ltd were named winners of the Best Start-Up Business Award. Founded in 2022 by childhood friends Fergal Carroll and Cathal Byrne, Fierce Mild is transforming the non-alcoholic beer market. Their award-winning extra pale ale, crafted using a unique yeast and hop blend, has already secured placement in 250+ venues. A new distribution deal with Classic Drinks will expand its distribution network and the team have further plans to expand across the UK, EU, and Australia.

The Innovation Award winner was SafeShel. Created by Irish Coast Guard veteran Peter Larkin, SafeShel is a rapidly inflatable rescue shelter designed for emergency response. Weighing just 5.5kg, it deploys in under 15 seconds, providing immediate protection and medical access. Already adopted by Civil Defence and emergency agencies, SafeShel is revolutionising emergency response solutions.

The award for Best Established Business went to moneysherpa. Founded in 2021, by Mark Coan, moneysherpa is Ireland’s first comprehensive home-buying service. Employing 10 staff, it streamlines the process through the use of technology, as well as dedicated case managers, financial optimisation, and an integrated mortgage, surveying, and legal service.

Having leveraged technology in its B2C business, the company then expanded into the B2B SaaS market for brokers and estate agents. moneysherpa aims to be Ireland’s leading B2C home-buying platform by 2030, with European expansion via their B2B services also on the horizon.

As the overall winner, Mark Coan of Money Sherpa will now represent Louth at the National Enterprise Awards in May at The Mansion House, Dublin.

Closing the event, Sarah Mallon, Local Enterprise Week Coordinator, praised the ambition of local businesses and urged them to explore the extensive supports available. 

“Local Enterprise Office Louth offers invaluable resources to SMEs to drive growth and job creation. Visit www.LocalEnterprise.ie/Louth/ReadyTo to discover more and connect with our team. Local Enterprise Week may be over, but our support continues year-round.”

The Louth Enterprise Awards 2025 showcased the county’s entrepreneurial spirit, setting the stage for another year of success and innovation.