needi & Grá Chocolates share EUR €100,000 prize for sustainable gifting
UK-based gifting technology platform needi and Irish chocolatier Grá Chocolates have received a split prize of EUR €100,000 at the Stelios Foundation North South Business Cooperation Awards 2025. The two companies were recognised for their collaboration, which focuses on sustainable corporate gifting across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Cross-border partnership
The needi and Grá Chocolates partnership centres on combining luxury, artisan chocolates with a corporate gifting platform that aims to support independent and sustainable brands. Both companies are led by women and have established a business relationship designed to build corporate culture and meaningful business connections through considered, ethical gifts.
needi provides a technology-driven platform that uses psychology and artificial intelligence to personalise gifts, drawing on local suppliers. Grá Chocolates, meanwhile, creates small-batch luxury chocolates using hand-finished methods and seasonally sourced Irish ingredients. Their partnership is now highlighted by the award from the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation, which seeks to promote business cooperation and social impact across Ireland.
Business impact
needi has established a significant presence in the corporate gifting market since its founding in 2021. The company currently lists over 150 clients, including high-profile companies such as Microsoft, Spotify, and Virgin. Its stated aim is to deliver GBP £5 million in sales for small businesses by 2026, having already generated more than GBP £3 million and sent over 60,000 gifts since launch.
Grá Chocolates, founded in 2020, is known for its four-day process to create each chocolate, which includes hand-polishing and painting every mould. The brand prioritises ingredients that reflect Ireland's seasonal produce. Its collaboration with needi has played a role in expanding its reach, particularly within the growing market for corporate gifts that prioritise sustainability and local business support.
"At needi, we believe gifting is about much more than transactions, it's about human connection. To be recognised by Sir Stelios for building connections across Ireland and supporting small businesses is such an honour. This award is a celebration of collaboration and kindness in business, and we're so proud to share it with Gráinne Mullins and the incredible team at Grá Chocolates. We hope this recognition inspires more businesses to put empathy and sustainability at the heart of their growth stories," said Louise Doyle, Co-founder and CEO, needi.
Award focus
The Stelios Philanthropic Foundation awarded EUR €500,000 in total prizes to 18 entrepreneurs based across Ireland this year. Its North South Business Cooperation Awards highlight businesses that foster trade, collaboration, and cross-border entrepreneurship. The partnership between needi and Grá Chocolates stood out for its focus on connection, kindness, and the direct support of local suppliers.
needi has raised GBP £1.4 million in funding to date, positioning itself as a corporate concierge for businesses seeking to recognise employees with locally sourced, tailored gifts. Grá Chocolates has built a profile based on craftsmanship and celebration of Irish produce, aligning with needi's values around meaningful and ethical gifting.
"We're deeply honoured to receive the Silver Award alongside needi. Our two-year partnership with Louise has been invaluable, demonstrating that true collaboration is a cornerstone of business success. Louise has built something truly special, and we are thrilled that our role as a supplier contributes directly to the happiness of her customers. We are so thankful to Sir Stelios," said Gráinne Mullins, CEO & Founder, Grá Chocolates.