Galway chocolate shop Grá Chocolates will represent Ireland at an international competition after being crowned winner of the Irish Creative Business Cup 2024.
Gráinne Mullins’ Grá Chocolates was among five shortlisted companies invited by CREW (Creative Enterprise West) at a global event held at their Creative Enterprise and Innovation Hub in Galway.
There, the businesses pitched their innovative Creative Industries Startups to an international jury of experts and investors. After rigorous evaluation, the jury has declared Grá Chocolates as the winner of the inaugural Irish Creative Business Cup, positioning them to represent Ireland in the Global Finals scheduled for June in Copenhagen.
CREW CEO Niamh Costello said: “We are thrilled to announce Grá Chocolates as the winner of the Irish Creative Business Cup”.
“Their work exemplifies the creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit that define the Irish Creative Industries as drivers of innovation and growth. We congratulate them on this well-deserved victory and wish them success as they represent Ireland in the Global Finals.”
The Irish Creative Business Cup aims to provide a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their talent, connect with investors, and gain international recognition.
Throughout the competition, finalists were connected with international mentors and advisors, offering guidance in refining business models, scaling operations, and navigating the global market. In addition, the winner gains access to the prestigious global Creative Business Academy, offering unparalleled support for internationalising their business.
The inaugural event was made possible through collaboration with the Western Development Commission (WDC), with support from the Local Enterprise Office Galway and Atlantic Technological University.