Recognizing Excellence in Entrepreneurship Education
Professor Thomas M. Cooney of Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin) has been honored with the European Entrepreneurship Education Award (EEEA) 2026 by the Sten K. Johnson Centre for Entrepreneurship at Lund University. This prestigious recognition highlights exceptional contributions to entrepreneurship education across Europe.
As Professor of Entrepreneurship and Director of TU Dublin’s Centre for Entrepreneurial Behaviour, Inclusion and Innovation (CEBII), Cooney has demonstrated two decades of leadership in developing inclusive entrepreneurship programs. His work focuses particularly on creating opportunities for marginalized communities and underrepresented groups.
Advancing Inclusive Entrepreneurship Practices
The award committee specifically recognized Cooney’s innovative approaches to:
- Developing entrepreneurship curricula accessible to diverse learners
- Creating pathways for disadvantaged communities to participate in entrepreneurial activities
- Integrating social impact projects into academic coursework
Under Cooney’s guidance, TU Dublin undergraduate students have raised approximately €1 million for charitable causes through entrepreneurship projects embedded in their academic programs. This practical approach to education demonstrates how entrepreneurial principles can drive positive social change.
International Impact Through Policy Leadership
Cooney’s influence extends beyond Ireland through his collaborations with major international organizations:
| Organization | Contribution Area |
|---|---|
| OECD | Entrepreneurship policy development |
| European Commission | Education program design |
| United Nations Institute for Training and Research | Global entrepreneurship initiatives |
These partnerships have helped shape entrepreneurship education frameworks adopted by institutions across Europe. Explore TU Dublin’s entrepreneurship programs to see how these international best practices are implemented in their curriculum.
TU Dublin’s Commitment to Entrepreneurial Education
The university’s strategic focus on inclusive entrepreneurship aligns with Cooney’s award-winning work. TU Dublin has established itself as a leader in:
- Developing accessible entrepreneurship education pathways
- Creating industry-academic partnerships that benefit diverse communities
- Implementing research-informed teaching methodologies
This institutional commitment provides students with exceptional opportunities to develop practical entrepreneurial skills while addressing real-world challenges.
Award Recognition and Future Implications
The EEEA 2026 includes a diploma and monetary prize of 100,000 SEK (approximately €8,500). The formal award ceremony will occur during the 3E Conference in Bodø, Norway (May 20-22, 2026), where Cooney will present his pioneering work.
This recognition positions TU Dublin as a European leader in entrepreneurship education and highlights Ireland’s growing influence in developing innovative educational models. Learn more about TU Dublin’s research centers to discover how they’re shaping the future of entrepreneurial education.
Educational Impact Beyond Academia
Cooney’s approach demonstrates how universities can:
- Create meaningful community impact through academic programs
- Develop graduates with both business skills and social consciousness
- Bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application
The award validates TU Dublin’s strategy of embedding real-world problem solving within its entrepreneurship curriculum. Consider attending the 3E Conference to gain insights from leading entrepreneurship educators across Europe.
Building Ireland’s Entrepreneurial Future
This international recognition reinforces Ireland’s position as an innovation hub and highlights the importance of:
- Investing in entrepreneurship education at all academic levels
- Creating inclusive ecosystems that support diverse entrepreneurs
- Developing industry-relevant programs that address economic challenges
For aspiring entrepreneurs and educators, Cooney’s achievement demonstrates the significant impact that well-designed entrepreneurship programs can have on individuals, communities, and national economies. Discover TU Dublin’s approach to entrepreneurial education to see how these principles are implemented in practice.
Professor Cooney’s award serves as both recognition of past achievements and inspiration for future innovations in entrepreneurship education. As institutions across Europe seek to develop more inclusive and impactful programs, TU Dublin’s work provides a valuable model for combining academic rigor with practical social impact.
