Yes, it’s that time of the year again when Ernst & Young recognizes Austin entrepreneurs. We always have a soft spot for the technology entrepreneurs, but the industry doesn’t matter. So here’s our recap of the finalists this year. Congratulations to all of you!

Entrepreneur Finalists

• Mark Adams, Advocate MD
• Tim Costello, Builder Homesite
• Sam Goodner, Catapult Systems
• Craig Malloy, LifesSize Communications
• Satin Mirchandani and Mike Rosenfelt, MessageOne
• Kirk Rudy, Chris Ellis, et al, Endeavor Real Estate Group
• Ed Sattar, 360 Training

MessageOne is nominated again, and they say you have to be nominated a few times before you win. Given that they just got bought by Dell, and are probably not really eligible next year, I would wager that they take home a trophy this year. Sam Goodner at Catapult Systems is an incredible entrepreneur, and his company has been around for over 10 years. The powers that be typically don’t reward services companies with this honor (if history is any indication). Craig Malloy at LifeSize has guided the company to tremendous growth and success. This may be the first year they have been nominated, but despite that we’re predicting an award. Endeavor Real Estate is certainly the major powerhouse in Austin, and that whole industry generates significant cash flow to many, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see them win either.

Social EOY Finalists

• Alan Graham, Mobile Loaves and Fishes
• Richard Halpin, American Youthworks
• Karen Langley, Family Eldercare
• Rachel Muir, Girlstart

Alan Graham is up for this award again, and we’d really like to see him win it this year. We know he would put the prize money to good use. He’s a truly genuine guy. American Youthworks has been nominated before, and has a great chance at winning this year. Rachel Muir has done an amazing job at Girlstart, and she is an incredible marketer and advovate for her charity. This will be the toughest decision the judges will have to make, because these charities are all so deserving.