Waterford stationery brand wins national Enterprise award
Kim Whyte, Founder & Designer of Pawpear with Gareth Evans, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Waterford. Photo: Nathan Burke Photography
Waterford stationery brand and creative design company Pawpear has been named as Waterford’s Enterprise Award winner for 2026.
The business was founded in 2022 by Kim Whyte, with the aim of creating a stationery company that takes design cues from Ireland’s culture and national heritage.
The company will go on to represent Waterford at the National Enterprise Awards, which will take place in the Mansion House, Dublin, on June 18.
“Each Pawpear collection is an ode to Ireland, its wild landscapes, native language and rich lore,” said Ms Whyte.
“All designs are illustrated, printed and assembled in Ireland using sustainable materials and local suppliers.
“We’re a young business, and so awards like this are very important. It’s a real honour to represent Waterford at the national final later this year.”
Every Pawpear design features references to the Irish language.
Mayor of Waterford City and County Council Séamus Ryan paid tribute to the brand: “For generations Waterford has always been renowned as a creative hub.
“Whether it be design of crystal or more modern technologies, we’ve always been recognised for this gift. That’s why I’m so pleased to have the next generation of creativity recognised here today.
“I’d like to wish Kim and the team at Pawpear the best of luck as they go on to represent Waterford at the National Enterprise Finals.”
