Tiara Yachts CEO Tom Slikkers was named a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Michigan and Northwest Ohio Award by Ernst & Young LLP, a program that celebrates leaders and entrepreneurs who drive innovation and economic growth and help shape the future of business.
Slikkers is among 34 finalists from 31 companies selected by an independent panel of judges. This year’s Michigan and Northwest Ohio finalists represent all industries, including technology, consumer products, manufacturing, finance and more.
“I’m honored to be nominated among the finalists of this special award, and I’m pleased to share this honor with my supportive family and the fantastic team of professionals I work alongside every day,” says Slikkers. “We take immense pride in the products we develop and deliver to our loyal Tiara customers and friends — their continued support has been the backbone of our company for more than 50 years. Finally, I am grateful to God in Heaven, who continues to guide me through life and all its challenging moments.”
Entrepreneur Of The Year honors business leaders for their ingenuity, courage and entrepreneurial spirit. Under Slikkers’ leadership, Tiara Yachts has experienced unprecedented growth with the development of their outboard-powered product portfolio and boasts multiple award-winning models.
Regional award winners will be announced on June 17 during a special celebration in Detroit and will become lifetime members of an esteemed community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni from around the world. Winners will be considered by the national judges for the Entrepreneur Of The Year National Awards, which will be presented in November at the annual Strategic Growth Forum.
To learn more, visit ey.com/en_us/entrepreneur-of-the-year-us/michigan-and-northwest-ohio/overview and tiarayachts.com.
