The countdown has begun for Estonia’s most prestigious business competition. The 30th Entrepreneurship Award now accepts nominations and applications, continuing three decades of celebrating the most innovative and successful companies.
A legacy of excellence
Last year, electrical equipment manufacturer Harju Elekter claimed the Company of the Year title for their groundbreaking industrial digitalisation achievements, while the whole line up demonstrated the diverse strength of Estonia’s economy. In the Foreign Investor category, HANZA Mechanics Tartu snapped the victory.
The company, part of the global HANZA group, provides comprehensive contract manufacturing services under their “all you need is one” concept, serving global giants like ABB, Siemens, and 3M. Their recent €10 million expansion added 4,000 square meters to their sheet metal facility, part of a larger €20 million investment over the past three years in modernising their operations. According to the Baltic cluster head Liivar Kongi, the Tartu complex has become a world-class manufacturing hub that impresses potential clients from across Europe.
Who will claim top spots in 2025? This year’s competition features seven dynamic categories:
- Exporter
- Innovator
- Foreign Investor
- Family Enterprise
- Industry Digitaliser
- Tourism Developer
- Sustainability Developer
To make it into any of these, here are key dates you cannot miss:
- Applications close: July 6, 2025
- Top 5 announced: End of July
- Final winners revealed: November 1, 2025 at the Estonia’s Best Companies gala.
But there’s more than just forms to fill. Between late July and mid-August, category managers conduct site visits to verify and refine submitted information with the shortlisted companies. Then, expert juries review the refined applications and select three nominees per category, announced in early October.
Companies can either apply directly by completing the application form, or be recommended by business partners, clients, industry associations, or local governments who recognise their achievements. Previous applicants are welcome to participate again, and companies may apply in multiple categories.
Don’t let this milestone year pass without showcasing your achievements. Submit your application or nominate deserving companies before July 6, 2025.
