Cork firm shortlisted for regional finals of international start-up awards

A Cork-based vehicle development company, Hibra Design, has been recognised on the international stage, being shortlisted as a Western Europe Regional Finalist in the Global Startup Awards. The company, founded in 2022, is competing in the Greentech Startup of The Year category, highlighting its focus on clean technology power solutions for the transportation sector.

Innovation recognised

Global Competition

The Global Startup Awards celebrate innovation worldwide, with finalists selected by an expert jury drawn from 154 countries. Hibra Design’s selection as a regional finalist places it among a select group of emerging companies across Western Europe. Category winners will be announced on February 18.

Irish Representation

Hibra Design stands out as the only Irish start-up nominated across all categories of the Global Startup Awards. This recognition underscores the growing innovation ecosystem within Ireland and the potential for Irish companies to compete globally. Should Hibra Design win its regional category, it will advance to the global finals in Valetta, Malta, this coming May.

Did You Know? Hibra Design secured an international tender to develop battery technology solutions for public transport vehicles in South Africa.

Focus on Sustainable Solutions

Hibra Design specializes in delivering sustainable and bespoke vehicle solutions for both public and private sector clients in Europe and the Middle East. The company’s work extends beyond design, encompassing the actual building of vehicles. This hands-on approach, according to Hibra’s chief executive, Mike Keane, is a key differentiator.

Expert Insight: Recognition in international awards programmes like the Global Startup Awards can be a significant catalyst for growth, providing visibility, attracting investment, and validating a company’s business model in a competitive landscape.

Public Voting Component

The final score for the Greentech Startup of The Year category includes a public voting component, accounting for a quarter of the overall result. Members of the public can support Hibra Design by casting a vote online at competition-system.globalstartupawards.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Hibra Design specialize in?

Hibra Design specializes in delivering sustainable and bespoke vehicle solutions for the public and private sector, with a focus on clean technology power.

Who is the chief executive of Hibra Design?

The chief executive of Hibra Design is Mike Keane, who previously worked for the Williams Formula 1 team as the head of engineering in their advanced engineering division.

What is the next step for Hibra Design?

Hibra Design will participate in the regional round of the Global Startup Awards, where category winners will be announced on February 18. A possible next step would be to advance to the global finals in Malta in May if they win their regional category.

How important is international recognition for emerging companies like Hibra Design?