Global data and technology organisation Ernst & Young (EY) has revealed the winners of the 2023 Entrepreneurs of the Year awards, who will now compete for the ultimate title of New Zealand’s Entrepreneur of the Year.

The 2023 winners for EY’s Entrepreneur of the Year covered five categories: the Young Entrepreneur; Tech and Emerging Industries; Product; Services; and the Master Category.

Winners were chosen from the 17 finalists who were announced in mid-2023.

Angus Brown of brain food drink Ārepa took home the Product Entrepreneur of the Year and Jamie Beaton of university admissions company Crimson Education won the Young Entrepreneur award.

Carmen Vicelich from Data Insights – who is also known for three other businesses – was awarded the Tech and Emerging Industries Entrepreneur, Chris Warren of the NZ Scaffolding Group was awarded the Services Entrepreneur of the Year and creator of digital collectibles app, VeVe, David Yu took home the Master Category.

“It’s incredibly inspiring to witness how these entrepreneurs have turned the challenges they have faced into fuel for growth,” says Cecilia Robinson, EY Entreprenuer of the Year New Zealand 2023 Chair of Judges and competition alumni.

“They have had to reflect on both their roles as leaders and their business objectives, and that has put them in good stead for the future”.

Read more: Ernst & Young reveals Kiwi Entrepreneurs of the Year finalists for 2023

For this year’s awards, Robinson says it was vital to consider the financial stability of these companies “given the current economic environment”.

The financial stability showcases a business’s capacity to take more risks and give back to the society.

“Whether that’s through the creation of jobs, the development of ground-breaking products and services, or the support of charitable initiatives – stable businesses become powerful engines of progress,” adds Robinson.

Not only do these entrepreneurs fit the criteria, Jason Macgregor, Director of EY Entrepreneur of the Year says they are also “forging a new path” for the next generation.

“This year’s winners have a clear understanding of their purpose; they know exactly what it is they want to achieve and are committed to doing what it takes to get there,” he says.

“Their driving forces have evolved, and go beyond growing and being successful, to creating meaningful change for people, communities and the environment.”

Alexia Hilbertidou, Founder of Girl Boss New Zealand has also been recognised with a highly commended for her work in closing the gender gap in STEM.

The winners will now compete for the title of Entrepreneur of the Year and will then go on to compete for the global title of World Entrepreneur of the Year.