Nominations

At EY, we believe that entrepreneurs are the moving force behind today’s economy. The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year award is an annual program that identifies and honors entrepreneurs who have made a difference and are an inspiration to others.

To qualify for participating in the program as a nominee, the candidate must be:

  • The nominee must be an Indonesian citizen (WNI).
  • They should hold the position of owner, CEO, or equivalent, with direct responsibility for the company’s recent performance.
    *EOY accepts more than one nomination from the same company. (i.e.: Founder/CEO with the Co-Founder).
  • The company must be operating within Indonesia and has been in operation for a minimum of 3 years.
  • Submission of 3 years audited financial statements is required from the nominee.
  • Once selected as finalists, entrepreneurs are required to attend a series of EOY events: On-site Filming, Partner Interviews, Judges One-on-One Interview, and the Awards Gala.

An independent panel of judges will evaluate nominations against the stated criteria. The panel includes the 2025 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year winner, as well as respected business and academic leaders.

Entrepreneurial spirit

How is the entrepreneur scaling their business and preparing for future growth?

  • Sees opportunities others miss, whether solving real problems, reimagining what’s possible or creating new value that drives growth and innovation
  • Takes bold personal and business risks, learns from experience and shares their journey, motivations, and challenges overcome
  • Demonstrates resilience, creativity and determination to overcome significant challenges
  • Cultivates an entrepreneurial mindset and culture that inspires innovation and action within the organization

Purpose

What values drive the entrepreneur and their vision for the future?

  • Leads with a clear purpose – personal and business – focused on why the business exists, who it serves and the difference it aims to make
  • Innovates in ways that prioritize long-term value for various stakeholders including people, planet and business
  • Builds trust by staying true to mission and values, even in uncertain times
  • Champions inclusive leadership and builds a culture that aligns strategy with core values and vision

Impact

What real-world positive difference is the entrepreneur making?

  • Serves customers in ways that meaningfully improve lives, communities or industries
  • Builds inclusive teams and creates access to resources and opportunities for all individuals, recognizing differing needs and experiences
  • Introduces new or improved solutions that create lasting benefit for people, markets or society.
  • Helps protect, restore or regenerate the environment for future generations

Growth

How is the entrepreneur scaling their business and preparing for future growth?

  • Demonstrates consistent growth in financial performance, operational viability and return on equity while scaling the business responsibly
  • Develops strong, adaptable teams and expands the customer base, leveraging a range of skills, experiences and perspectives
  • Uses innovation, new approaches, and technology to lead, improve and evolve their industry
  • Creates an agile, resilient business that delivers long-term value for all stakeholders

May
Nominations Open

EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 On-Site Visits
(Represented by EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2025 Indonesia)

July
Nominations Close

August - September
Finalists Announcement and On-Site Visits

October
Judging Process
Meet the 2026 Judges

November
Awards Gala
EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ 2026

June (2027)
The Indonesia country winner will go on to represent Indonesia at the prestigious EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year black-tie reception and awards gala in Monte Carlo, Monaco.


Here's to the entrepreneurs shaping what's next, paving the way for a brighter future.