Irish America’s Business 100 honors the best and the brightest Irish-American and Irish-born leaders, representing some of the most innovative and influential companies and corporations in the world.

Irish America once again rang in the holiday season and celebrated the Business 100 Gala Awards at the beautiful Metropolitan Club on Monday, December 15th.

We were thrilled to have Maggie Timoney, CEO of HEINEKEN, as the keynote speaker. Maggie is the first female CEO of a major U.S. beer company and one of only six women to be named Grand Marshal of the New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

Maggie’s journey from excelling on the basketball court at Iona to breaking significant gender barriers in the corporate world reflects her resilience, leadership, and influence. She gave a heartwarming speech, taking us back to Ballina, Co. Mayo, where she grew up as the youngest of 9 children in a loving family – talked about Danny Thompson, who moved to her small town and founded and coached the Ballina Pacers women’s basketball team, which enabled her to go on to play for the Ireland team and earn a basketball scholarship to Iona College (now university). And revealed how, as a homesick immigrant, she found her American family and friends for life at Iona University. And in an emotional moment, paid tribute to those Irish who went before, asking those present to close their eyes and think of the special person who helped pave the way to their success.

Andrea Haughian, the U.S. Chief of Invest Northern Ireland, received the 2025 Spirit of Ireland Award. She spoke movingly about the power of the Irish diaspora and the responsibility that accompanies leadership and said that the honorees were “testaments to the extraordinary impact of our Irish and Irish-American community.” 

Consul General Gerald Angley also reflected on the strength of the Irish diaspora in America, noting the vital role it continues to play in supporting Ireland socially, culturally, and economically. He spoke of the deep sense of connection that binds Irish communities across the Atlantic, emphasizing how the diaspora has long served as a bridge between the two nations. Expressing his appreciation for the gathering, he shared, “I am truly honored to be here tonight, celebrating that shared legacy.”

The evening, with Patricia Harty, editor and co-founder of Irish America, as presenter, was elevated by a heartfelt musical performance from honoree Cathy Maguire, who came from Nashville to share her remarkable voice with the audience, and a memorable rendition of “White Christmas.”