THE 2008 SHELL Livewire All-Ireland Young Entrepreneur of the Year award has gone to Brian Corish and Gavin Payne, founders of Fuse Broadcasting, an in-store broadcasting company based in Cork.
The pair received €5,000 in prize money yesterday evening, marking the culmination of a six-month competition.
Andrew Deegan and Brian Quigley of Dublin-based games company Breakout GC received the runner-up award and €1,500.
The Livewire programme, which operates in more than 20 countries, celebrates entrepreneurship in young people between the ages of 16 and 30.
Speaking at the awards, Shell Ireland managing director Terry Nolan said: "By recognising and rewarding these young entrepreneurs, we hope to encourage economic growth and foster a spirit of enterprise."
The competition began six months ago when candidates were interviewed in four regional heats by a panel of judges to assess business acumen, potential, and the long-term viability of their businesses. The eight finalists included a children's story publisher, computer manufacturer and skincare clinic.
Three other prizes were awarded: the innovation award, which was granted to Belfast firm Sengenia; the entrepreneurial spirit award, won by C3 Computers; and the export potential award, which went to Nvolve of Co Donegal.
Last year, the overall award was won by Vicarious Golf, the producers of a special towel for golf, which is now available in golf stores throughout Europe.
