Dutch and Co wins 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year

THE 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year award organised by the Netherland Embassy in collaboration with the Ghana Netherlands Business & Culture Council (GNBCC), has recognised three outstanding Dutch-affiliated companies for their significant contribution to Ghana’s economy and shaping a sustainable future.

The winning company, Dutch and Co, a leading renewable energy firm was awarded for its outstanding commitment to sustainability through its work in solar energy.

Holland GreenTech, a social enterprise that stood out for its efforts in training farmers in good agricultural practices, promoting sustainable farming techniques, and sharing valuable expertise with local farmers came second while Kenyio, a food and wellness company won the third position for creating employment opportunities and promoting economic growth.

The Entrepreneur of the Year award is an initiative designed to highlight the significant contributions of Dutch businesses and business partners with strong ties to the Netherlands, who are driving sustainable development, fostering trade, and creating opportunities in Ghana.

The 2024 award provided a platform for companies to showcase their impactful work in Ghana and stimulate further sector growth. It also served as a moment to acknowledge and thank Dutch businesses, SMEs, and local partners in Ghana for their continued efforts and collaboration over the past year.

The programme also marked a significant step in a global initiative by the NL in Business to celebrate Dutch entrepreneurs in 11 countries, recognising leaders who embody the spirit of sustainable entrepreneurship.

Criteria 

Speaking to Daily Graphic on the sidelines of the award ceremony in Accra, the General Manager of GNBCC, Tjalling Wiarda, provided insight into the selection process explaining that each company was evaluated based on four key criteria: local impact, sustainability leadership, innovation, and social responsibility. 

These criteria, which weighed equally at 20 per cent each, he said, were designed to highlight the businesses’ efforts in driving positive change within their industries and communities.

“Dutch & Co is a genuine entrepreneur who has been building its business since 2011 and can be proud to have grown into the Ghana market leader in renewable energy, having built the largest rooftop project in Ghana,” he added.

Commenting on his win, the General Manager for Dutch& Co, Herbert Friese, expressed his excitement for the recognition for his hard work through sustainable solutions.