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Sonru wins 100k Bright Ideas Challenge (Press Release)

Posted to Press Releases on March 05 2010.

Sonru.com was announced as the winner of the Bank of Ireland Bright Ideas Challenge Grand Final held in the House of Lords, College Green, Dublin on March 3rd. The Bright Ideas Challenge in association with Kernel Capital and the Business Innovation Centres (BICs) is a search for a Business Star. The competition is aimed at start-ups, SMEs, sole traders and social entrepreneurs who demonstrate some or all of the following characteristics; an innovative product or service; an exciting export opportunity; high growth potential and a strong management team.

Edward Hendrick, Founder of Sonru, commenting on the win said “We are thrilled to win theIde National Bright as Challenge. The competition was intense but we are delighted that the judges decided in our favour. Our products are truly scalable and the company has the potential to grow into a global player. Winning this award will enable us to grow faster, evolve our products at a greater pace and consolidate the gains we have made.” Sonru’s CEO, Fergal O’Byrne added, “Winning this award is a huge bonus for the company, its shareholders and clients. All the team worked really hard to ensure we gave ourselves the best opportunity of success. We would particularly like to thank the South East BIC team for all their efforts and support since the company’s inception. This award will be the substrate on which we grow and evolve the company internationally and become a major player in the online video space.”

The judging panel comprised Sean Gallagher of RTE’s Dragon’s Den and representatives from Bank of Ireland and BIC. Commenting on the win Aidan Shine, Assistant CEO of South East BIC said “Since its inception in 2008, the Bright Ideas Challenge has showcased the very high calibre of entrepreneurs in Ireland, and this year was no exception. Sonru were very worthy winners and South East BIC is looking forward to continue assisting them achieve their future growth plans.”

The prize consists of an attractive investment package of 100,000 euro interest free loan plus mentoring from Sean Gallagher of RTE’s Dragons Den. The other finalists were RendezVu (Dublin Region), Eventovate (Galway Region), ResourceKraft (Cork Region)
Further information and availability of Sonru management for interview, please contact:
Joy Redmond; joy@sonru.com or 087 6838 922.