Representing Cork North and West, Hayley Milithorpe of The Cultured Food Company, is the Finalist for the National Enterprise Awards 2026.The business will now go forward to represent Cork at the National Enterprise Awards in June in Dublin, where they will compete alongside 30 other finalists for a share of the €35,000 prize fund. 

Based in Skibbereen, The Cultured Food Company has earned a growing following for its premium range of raw, organic and naturally fermented foods, including sauerkraut and kimchi. Founded from Hayley Milithorpe’s background in nutrition and passion for gut health, the business is known for its vibrant small-batch products, crafted with live cultures and natural ingredients to support wellbeing and great taste.

Speaking of the award winners, Mayor of County Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley, said: “These businesses are proof that innovation and ambition thrive in Cork. Just a few short years ago, businesses like these would not have even been imagined, yet in our rapidly changing world, we see them not only emerge but grow, create employment, and lead in their fields. New opportunities are constantly emerging, and our local entrepreneurs are stepping up to meet these challenges and shape the future. The Local Enterprise Offices play a vital role in supporting this journey, and I encourage every aspiring business to tap into the resources available. With the right support, there’s no limit to what can be achieved.”

Hayley Milithorpe of The Cultured Food Company said: “Winning this award is a fantastic honour for our business and a wonderful opportunity to represent Cork North and West at the National Enterprise Awards. The support from LEO Cork North and West has played an important role in our journey, helping us strengthen the business and look ahead with confidence. We are excited for what comes next.”

Cork County Council’s LEO Cork North & West plays a strong role each year in assisting businesses, and in 2025, some €1.233 million was approved in Grant Funding, creating 111 new jobs. There were 1,445 participants in 129 Training Programmes, 1008 participants availed of free business mentoring, 95 Green LEAN & Digital approvals and 28 Schools with 1255 students participated in the TY Mini Company programme.

Through this combination of practical supports and strong local engagement, LEO Cork North & West continues to play a central role in ensuring that West Cork remains one of Ireland’s leading regions for artisan food innovation and entrepreneurship.