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Axopar Founding Partner Wins a 2024 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Jan-Erik Viitala, founding partner of Finnish boatbuilder Axopar Boats, has won a 2024 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award and will now represent Finland at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Championship in June 2025, joining top global entrepreneurs.

Jan-Erik Viitala collected his award from EY Entrepreneur of the Year program director Juha Hilmola and chair of the jury Leena Niemistö

Jan-Erik Viitala (center) collected his award from EY Entrepreneur of the Year program director Juha Hilmola and chair of the jury Leena Niemistö | Credit: Julius Konttinen

Announced at an EY gala in Helsinki last Friday, the recognition celebrates Viitala’s outstanding entrepreneurial achievements as well as the vision and passion that have shaped Axopar since its founding in 2014.

“Warm congratulations to Jan-Erik Viitala and Axopar Boats Oy for winning the competition,” said Leena Niemistö, chair of the jury. “The winning company convinced us with its clear market strategy and innovative product development solutions, as well as the entrepreneur’s passion for the industry. The company’s strong financial figures and ability to stand out made it this year’s winner.”

The EY Entrepreneur of the Year program, regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious entrepreneurial competitions, highlights visionary leaders whose innovation, strategic focus and leadership inspire others. This year, the Finnish competition saw 53 growth companies compete, with 10 finalists selected for the final.

The independent jury evaluated candidates based on the competition’s international criteria, including strong values, exemplary leadership, and business strategy. Axopar’s strategic differentiation and growth-oriented approach stood out in a highly competitive field, underscoring the company’s substantial impact in the boating industry both domestically and internationally.

As the winner of the Finnish competition, Axopar and Jan-Erik Viitala will represent Finland in the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year World Championship held in June 2025.