These 5 National Startup Awards Finalists Are Quietly Rewriting the Rules of Innovation—Here’s Why You Should Care Now
Ever wonder what it takes for a startup to not just survive but truly disrupt the game in Ireland? Well, this year’s 2026 National Startup Awards finalists are proof that early-stage businesses here are not just dreaming—they’re executing with grit, innovation, and a touch of brilliance. From 24/7 automated vending shops that redefine convenience to AI-driven climate tech and digital solutions supporting farmers and bone health—these companies are laying down the future, one bold move at a time. And it all culminates on November 19 at the iconic Dublin City Hall, where category winners and the overall National Startup of the Year will be crowned. If you think startups are just about ideas, think again—it’s about vision, hustle, and transforming industries. Ready to see who’s making waves? LEARN MORE
BusinessPlus is shining a light on this year’s finalists for the 2026 National Startup Awards, recognising early-stage businesses across Ireland.
Category winners and the overall National Startup of the Year will be announced at an awards ceremony in Dublin City Hall on November 19.
Company Name:
E-Kiosk Ireland
Founders:
Tomás Young
What the company does:
E-Kiosk Ireland operates Ireland’s first 24/7 automated vending machine shop, offering convenient, self-service shopping.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
In 5–10 years, we see E-Kiosk growing across Ireland, with shops in towns and cities making convenient, 24/7 shopping accessible to more people nationwide.

Company Name:
Tao Climate
Founders:
Gary Byrnes, Felix Roick
What the company does:
Tao Climate combines satellites, science, and AI to help businesses measure emissions and carbon removal.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
To become the global infrastructure for carbon removal, enabling businesses and AI agents to finance, track and procure millions of tonnes of verified carbon removal.

Company Name:
FURROW
Founders:
Niall Brennan
What the company does:
Farmers send photos and voice notes on WhatsApp. Furrow keeps the farm’s record, advisor-ready.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
The living record of every family farm in Ireland, the UK and Europe, kept from WhatsApp and ready for whoever steps in next.

Company Name:
Perissos
Founders:
Chibueze Donald Madueke
What the company does:
Perissos keeps AI agents secure and compliant from design to retirement, for builders and buyers.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
By 2036, Perissos will be the Irish-built global trust standard for AI agents: verified before they ship, guarded as they act, accountable until retired.

Company Name:
Building Bones
Founders:
Jenni Dowley
What the company does:
Building Bones supports people with osteoporosis and low bone density to improve their bone health.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
To be the global leader and gold standard in digital bone health care, transforming how osteoporosis is prevented, and treated for millions worldwide.




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