Team from Offaly school secure second place in major international competition

A TEAM of innovative young entrepreneurs from Tullamore College have proudly represented Ireland on the world stage, securing an outstanding 2^nd place finish at the prestigious SAGE World Cup 2025 in Georgia.

The competition brought together entrepreneurial teams from across the globe, with Ireland’s representatives – Grass sheets impressing judges in every round with their unique and sustainable business project: producing high-quality paper made entirely from 100% grass.

Since beginning their journey in September 2024, the five students have worked tirelessly to develop their product range, which includes wildflower seed pouches, bags bookmarks, wedding invitations, and birthday invitations. In a further innovative step, the team successfully created a bleached version of their grass paper, making the project truly stand out internationally.

Their journey to the world stage began last May, when Grass sheets won Gold at the Young Social Innovators competition. The students expressed their gratitude for the opportunity YSI gave them to represent Ireland at the SAGE World Cup and to showcase their work to a global audience.

READ NEXT: Leading Offaly secondary school completes successful upgrade of its solar system

On their path to the top four in Georgia, Grass sheets overcame strong competition from countries including Japan and China, and South Africa before securing their place in the final rounds alongside teams from the USA, Vietnam, and South Korea. Ultimately, they placed second overall an incredible achievement that highlights the creativity and determination of the young Irish team.

The students were supported throughout the project by their teachers, Emma Bradley and Ian Feighery, who have expressed immense pride in their achievement.

This remarkable success not only places Tullamore College and Ireland firmly on the global entrepreneurial map but also showcases the potential of youth-led sustainable business ideas to inspire real change.

READ NEXT: Two credit unions in Offaly join forces to host joint roadshow in Tullamore and Moate