Passion and perseverance

Few people have the passion and perseverance to turn a bright idea into a brilliant business like the men and women recognized by the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year (EOY) program.

Recognized globally, EOY celebrates the best of our nation’s entrepreneurial talent, whose achievements in building dynamic and growing businesses are a testament to their vision, tenacity and leadership.

Entrepreneurs are people who see an idea and make it happen. They have the vision and determination to create new ideas and solutions that make a difference right here in our own community. Northeast Ohio’s entrepreneurs continue to astonish us with their distinctive and inspiring stories. You’ll learn more about the ambitious journeys of this year’s Northeast Ohio Ernst & Young EOY finalists and award recipients in the following profiles.

As the first truly global award program of its kind, EOY celebrates entrepreneurs who are building and leading successful, growing and dynamic businesses. These remarkable men and women — who provide jobs, grow our communities, strengthen our economies and improve the world — are recognized through regional, national and global awards in more than 150 cities and 35 countries.

Since the program’s founding in 1986, Ernst & Young and EOY partner sponsors have recognized thousands of outstanding business entrepreneurs who have developed new technologies, created faster ways to distribute goods and services, and improved the quality of life in their communities. Locally, the EOY program was introduced in 1988, and in 2005, we continue the tradition of honoring the Northeast Ohio entrepreneurs whose dreams have led them down the path of success.

We celebrate each of these extraordinary individuals for their hard work and dedication. On behalf of everyone at Ernst & Young, congratulations to the 2005 Northeast Ohio Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards Program finalists and award recipients.

Ben Cohen is a tax partner and EOY program director for Ernst & Young LLP. Reach him at (216) 583-8852.