Meet the Game-Changing Startups Rewriting the Rules of Innovation at the 2026 National Startup Awards—Who’s Poised to Dominate Next?
Ever wonder what it really takes to be the next big thing in Ireland’s startup scene? Well, buckle up, because BusinessPlus.ie is zeroing in on the trailblazers lighting up the 2026 Startup Awards. These aren’t just any startups; they’re early-stage businesses shaking up industries and dreaming big from Dublin to across Europe. Come November 19, Dublin City Hall will turn into the battleground where category winners and the ultimate National Startup of the Year emerge. From financial literacy programs for women and families to AI privacy guardians, and from internet trust pioneers to smart energy savers—these finalists aren’t just playing the game; they’re rewriting the rules. Curious about the visionaries behind these innovations and how they plan to scale their empires over the next decade? You’re in the right place. LEARN MORE
BusinessPlus.ie is shining a light on this year’s finalists for the 2026 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:
AllSkills Tech/ AllSkills Education CLG
Founders:
AllSkills Education CLG
What the company does:
We deliver financial literacy education for women and families in Ireland
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
We are already making connections in Europe and cross-border projects in Ireland. We will continue to scale evidence-based finlit programs across Ireland, UK, Europe, Canada
Company Name:
Maya Data privacy
Founders:
Aaloka Anant
What the company does:
We build AI privacy solutions that protect sensitive data and enable responsible, secure AI adoption.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
To become a global leader in AI privacy, making artificial intelligence safer through innovative privacy solutions that protect sensitive data and build trust worldwide.
Company Name:
Cantivia
Founders:
Feargal Browne, Oisín O’Gorman, Ashkan Samali
What the company does:
Cantivia is building the trust layer for the internet.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
We see Cantivia being the default global platform for trust and information integrity online.
Company Name:
Renify Limited (TA RENEW energy)
Founders:
Fabiano Pallonetto, Amy Fahy, Carrie Anne Barry, David McLoughlin, Axel Penzo
What the company does:
RENEW, powered by Arden Energy, helps households reduce electricity costs through smart technology and insights
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
Building on our partnership with Arden Energy we aim to reach one million European households, helping consumers reduce electricity bills through smarter energy choices.
Company Name:
Protostars
Founders:
Kim McKayed, Mohamed Fayez, Nouran Attia.
What the company does:
Protostars builds AI assurance infrastructure helping businesses demonstrate cybersecurity compliance and pursue appropriate insurance cover.
Company vision for the next 5-10 years:
Within a decade, Protostars aims to lead global AI assurance, enabling certifiable, insurable digital products that protect people and help smaller businesses compete and grow.
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