Back to EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ Azerbaijan

EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2024 candidates

Winners were announced at the Award Ceremony.

Winner

Unveiling yet another participant, Ramil Rzayev, the creative force steering Baku Holiday Travel, a premier tourism agency in Azerbaijan. Founded back in 2013, Baku Holiday Travel is now in its 11th year of operation with a new focus on online tourism services through bht.az. BHT strives to facilitate seamless travel experiences to destinations worldwide, with a commitment to enhancing Azerbaijan's appeal as a premier destination for international visitors. Ramil’s leadership is marked by an innovative spirit, constantly embracing new technologies and strategies to maintain a leading edge amid industry trends.

Innovation nomination

Adil Gasimov is the founder of “Push 30” established in 2019 and recognized as a startup of the year and winner of the EBRD Star Venture Program. To date the company has secured over AZN 2.5 million from foreign investors. “Push 30” quickly expanded its reach by fostering partnerships with various gyms, giving customers more options and supporting local fitness centers. The essence of Push 30's business model goes beyond mere profitability; it revolves around creating a sustainable, health-focused community, which is a significant value addition in today's fast-paced and health-conscious world. Currently, “Push30” has over 9 thousand active users. “Push30” has recently established a branch in Uzbekistan that collaborates with over 106 gyms. The branch has already garnered over 250 active users within the region.

Agricultural Development nomination

Meet Farid Akbarzade the visionary behind Umud Agro, established in 2018 in Goranboy district of Azerbaijan. The Company specializes in providing cutting-edge farm equipment, building and managing livestock complexes, and importing breeding animals from European countries. Committed to meeting the diverse needs of customers, Umud Agro conducts a thorough analysis to understand and fulfil specific requirements for agricultural equipment, ensuring quality and satisfaction. Farid's dedication extends beyond mere business pursuits; it is focused on leaving a meaningful impact by actively contributing to the sustainable development of agriculture in the country.

Sustainable Development nomination

Introducing Ilkin Hajiyev, the founder of Sustainera Solutions consulting firm, established in 2020. With active operations in Azerbaijan and Georgia, Sustainera Solutions provides comprehensive climate change, sustainability consultancy and research services to international organizations, foreign and local companies, IFIs based on global standards. Driven by a commitment to a sustainable future, Sustainera Solutions strives to create a positive impact on both stakeholders and the environment by guiding clients through transformative journeys, turning challenges into enduring and sustainable solutions.

Woman Entrepreneur nomination

Introducing Inara Mirza-zada, co-founder and director of Alpha-Omega. Founded amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Alpha-Omega swiftly evolved into a daring and ambitious company, securing market share in record time. Today, it serves a diverse clientele, both local and international. Inara's management philosophy centers on innovation, risk-taking, and loyalty. Alpha-Omega stands as the parent company of Nabat Talks networking platform that brings together thousands of entrepreneurs in Azerbaijan.

Regional Development nomination

Meet Tariyel Mirzoyev, the visionary leader behind Balkhoorma, specializing in the production of dried fruits, with a primary focus on persimmon. Located in Balakan, the production facility is committed to natural production principles, avoiding the use of sugar and preservatives to retain natural flavors and nutritional value. The Company's global footprint extends to over 15 countries, with an impressive 98% of production reaching international markets. Balkhoorma takes pride in safeguarding traditional varieties and consistently supporting local farmers by directly acquiring fresh persimmons, primary raw material, straight from their gardens.

Beyond Azerbaijan nomination

Meet Tehran Aliyev, the creative mind behind VITAM delivering advertising and furniture solutions to stand out amidst the competition. Since its inception in 2004, the agency has been offering a broad spectrum of solutions ranging from innovative advertising structures and alluring showcases to tailor-made commercial furniture and eye-catching exhibition stands. The Company's reach extends to the US, the Netherlands, Georgia and Uzbekistan. Tehran credits his success to strong sales, networking, goal-setting, and organizational skills.

Environmental Solutions nomination

Meet Vusal Hasanov, the founder and inspirer of BAFT & Partners driven by a deep-seated passion for environmental sustainability. The initiative is truly unique because of its emphasis on green energy, recycling, and the maximal use of natural resources. Through innovative waste purification methods and advanced equipment, BAFT & Partners surpasses local competitors in both cleaning thoroughness and resource efficiency. Vusal firmly advocates for making ecology a top priority, consistently supported by individuals and businesses alike.

Agshin Shahbazzadeh is the founder of Green Hat company established in 2016. Initially focusing on residential and commercial construction, the Company subsequently expanded its horizons, diversifying into the manufacturing of home furniture. Green Hat forged successful partnerships with industry leaders, reaching a significant milestone in 2018 as it secured a position among the top five suppliers for a global electronics giant. As part of collaboration with global enterprises, Green Hat initiated the production of commercial furniture, including stands, adhering to the highest quality standards. At present, Agshin and his team are actively exploring opportunities to expand the Company's presence globally. The primary emphasis is on analyzing market trends in the Middle East, with plans to initiate exports to key destinations such as Dubai, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal step in the Company's strategy for global expansion.

Anar Malikov is the Director of TCS company established in 2007. TCS provides professional training and engineering inspection services to public and private companies in the local and international markets. The company's focus on accredited learning services involves training, competence building, and job readiness. As an engineering solutions provider, TCS guarantees that equipment meets stringent standards, ensuring fitness-for-purpose, proper inspection, safe usage, and maintenance. Dedicated to upholding rigorous quality and compliance standards, TCS strives to ensure that personnel competency and equipment certifications address the critical requirements of various industries.

Introducing Balagha Jafarov, the visionary behind Altair Technologies, the go-to provider of customized automation solutions! Since its inception in 2016, this company has been revolutionizing industries across the board – from fintech and logistics to manufacturing, banking, trade, healthcare, and data management. Altair Technologies prides itself on building strong partnerships with major banks, government entities, commercial organizations, advertising firms, and printing houses, solidifying its position as a true industry leader. What sets Altair Technologies apart is their dedication to sourcing the most cutting-edge solutions from global markets. By equipping entities across Azerbaijan with game-changing technologies, they are empowering businesses to thrive and conquer the ever-changing world of commerce.

Meet Elgar Baghirov, the mastermind behind Times Consulting. Since its establishment in 2007, this dynamic advertising agency has been delivering creative and efficient solutions to its clients. Times Consulting is all about connecting with the target audience through various platforms and channels. Whether it's media placement, indoor advertising installations, stands and lightboxes, outdoor advertising in prime locations, or digital marketing and PR, they've got you covered! With a progressive approach, Times Consulting goes above and beyond to understand unique situations, intricacies, and the bigger picture. What sets Times Consulting apart is their progressive approach to take the time to understand the intricacies of each client's situation and consider the broader context to create solutions that not only perform flawlessly but also boast a captivating aesthetic.

Meet Elnur Islamov, the architect of the Greening Global model and the driving force behind the successful initiatives in Azerbaijan. He is a visionary leader with the ambition to rank among the top 5 using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for greening cities and countries. The proposed solution is intriguing for 8 billion people. Its clientele includes state and government officials, city and town managers, as well as commercial companies motivated by the innovative payment structure.

Meet Elshan Mammadov, mastermind behind Brand Media – an advertising powerhouse promoting both local and international brands with innovative advertising strategies. The Company enhances brand visibility and engagement by targeting high-traffic areas, identifying prime advertising spaces, and transforming ordinary locations into dynamic platforms that captivate diverse audiences. Brand Media offers a comprehensive suite of advertising services ranging from creative idea and visualization to implementation and effectiveness analysis. Employing a client-centric approach, the Company develops tangible tools to effectively engage and attract target groups.

Introducing Fakhri Gasimov, the founder of Guavalab - IT company driven by the idea of innovation and advanced technological solutions. Guavalab is dedicated to developing innovative financial and technology solutions, including mobile banking applications and crypto processing systems, thereby significantly contributing to the modernization of the fintech sector.

Introducing Jamal Ismailov, the innovative leader behind Datum, a renowned name in Azerbaijan's GIS landscape. Backed with a skilled team boasting extensive expertise in GIS, Remote Sensing, and Software Development, Datum proudly holds distributorship contracts with leading industry players. Datum takes pride in delivering exceptional service to customers by leveraging cutting-edge technologies to exceed expectations.

Kamil Baghirov is the owner and founder of CraZzy Bear, a conceptual restaurant that embodies his boundless creativity. Along with CraZzy Bear, the expansive umbrella of the CraZzy Family boasts ventures such as CraZzy Chameleon, CraZzy Mosquito, CraZzy Gifts, CraZzy Aghabala Chaykofski. Kamil spearheads a mission to spotlight Azerbaijan's prowess in the realm of conceptual dining experiences.

Meet Leyla Aliyeva, the innovative entrepreneur at the helm of A+A group events, a powerhouse in the events industry! Recognized as one of the foremost event agencies in the Caucasus, A+A Events offers top-notch solutions that blend creativity, technical know-how and project management. From enchanting gala dinners and dreamlike weddings to dynamic product launches and spectacular performances of world-renowned celebrities, A+A Events crafts unforgettable experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Reyhan Huseynova, as the founder of the University Foundation Centre (UFC), is an individual who has made a remarkable contribution to the education sector in Azerbaijan. Under her leadership, the UFC, an independent educational center aimed at providing financial and moral support to talented youth, was established 10 years ago. Thanks to Reyhan's vision and belief, a previously nonexistent educational opportunity was created, and the UFC education center in Azerbaijan stands as a pioneering institution offering educational opportunities in three different directions. The UFC Education Center started its activities in Azerbaijan as the first International Foundation Program, and today it has evolved into a major educational institution implementing extensive access to vocational and higher education programs.

Introducing our next nominee, Vusal Khalilov, the founder and director of Mobil Group. Mobil Group specializes in customs representation and international freight services, offering invaluable assistance to clients in resolving a wide array of issues and adeptly guiding them through the intricacies of evolving customs regulations. Vusal embodies a philosophy of holistic advancement, where every facet of the business grows in tandem, ensuring sustainable progress.