The founders of software firm Openet - Joe Hogan and Niall Norton - were last night named Ernst and Young Entrepreneurs of the Year.
Openet was formed in Dublin city centre in 1999, with only two people but has grown into a global team of 830 people. The company provides software to communication and media service providers all over the world.
Over the last three years it has grown revenues substantially. It reported revenues of €31m in 2008, €46m in 2009 and €75.5m in 2010. It is targeting growth of €100m for 2011. It has offices in the US, Malaysia and Brazil and also recently announced plans to expand its presence in Canada and Mexico.
Joe Hogan and Niall Norton were also awarded the International Entrepreneur of the year award last night.
Other winners announced last night were Conor McCarthy of Dublin Aerospace, who was named Entrepreneur of the year in the emerging category, while the industry category was presented to Raymond Coyle of Meath-based Largo Foods Exports.
The chairperson of the National Ploughing Association, Anna-May McHugh, received this year's special award for her outstanding contributions to rural life in Ireland.
Joe Horgan and Niall Norton will now go on to represent Ireland at the World Entrepreneur of the year awards in Monte Carlo next June.
