SPRYT, a digital healthcare company from Monaghan Town has been crowned National Enterprise of the Year at the 2025 National Enterprise Awards, marking a significant achievement which once again showcases the strength of local entrepreneurship, innovation and enterprise support within County Monaghan.
The business was founded by Daragh Donohue and Neill Dunwoody in 2022 with the support of the Local Enterprise Office Monaghan. SPRYT created an AI-powered virtual receptionist that helps healthcare providers improve patient engagement and reduce missed appointments via WhatsApp, SMS, and RCS – pilots of the company’s ASA tool with the NHS have seen a 160% increase in appointment conversion rates.
Speaking on the win, Cathaoirleach of Monaghan County Council, Cllr. Paul Gibbons said: “This is a proud day for Monaghan. Spryt’s success not only represents innovation at its finest but also underlines the incredible talent and drive that exists within our local business community. We are delighted to see the impact of our enterprise support bearing such exceptional results on a national stage.”
Robert Burns, Chief Executive of Monaghan County Council, added: “Spryt’s journey from a local start-up to a national award-winning business reflects the importance of continued investment in enterprise development. Through the Local Enterprise Office and Monaghan County Council, we empower entrepreneurs with the resources, guidance, and backing they need to thrive. This achievement sets a high bar for what is possible with the right vision and support.”
Cathal Flynn, Director of Economic Development, Planning, Regeneration & Capital Projects, Monaghan County Council, concurred, “County Monaghan’s proud entrepreneurial spirit of innovation and drive is alive and well. Congratulations to Neill and Daragh and the entire team at Spryt for their wonderful success as the overall winner at this year’s National Enterprise Awards.”
Pamela Kerr Head of Enterprise Monaghan County Council said, “The success of Spryt is a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial spirit in County Monaghan and the critical support provided by the Local Enterprise Office Monaghan and Monaghan County Council.”
The National Enterprise Awards, now in their 25th year, are an initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices to celebrate Ireland’s most promising small businesses. Held at the iconic Round Room in Dublin’s Mansion House, this year’s awards were presented by Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, T.D., recognising excellence in categories such as Innovation, Export, Sustainability, and Start-Up.
Announcing the award winners at the Mansion House, Minister Dillon said, “The National Enterprise Awards are a celebration of the innovation, resilience, and ambition that define Ireland’s business community. Each year, the caliber of finalists continues to rise, reflecting the extraordinary talent and determination of entrepreneurs across the country. These businesses are not only creating jobs—they are shaping the future of our local economies and communities.
“Tonight’s winners represent the very best of what Irish enterprise has to offer, and we remain committed to supporting them as they grow, compete, and thrive on both a national and global stage. These businesses are at the core of every town, village and community and are vital to our economy. We will ensure businesses continue to get the support they need to grow, prosper, and remain competitive,” Minister Dillon continued
