SEATTLE, BOSTON, and TOKYO—Aurion Biotech, a clinical-stage biotech company that is developing a platform of advanced therapies to treat ocular diseases, has announced that CEO Greg Kunst has been named winner of the Ernst & Young 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year award for the Mountain West Region. The Mountain West program celebrates entrepreneurs from Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming, according to the announcement. “On behalf of our patients, our physicians and our employees, I’m delighted to accept this award,” said Kunst.

“Aurion Biotech is on a mission to bring our transformational cell therapy to millions of patients who are at risk of blindness resulting from corneal endothelial dystrophies. Gaining this recognition from Ernst & Young is another important step for us in our journey. I thank the panelists and Ernst & Young staff who sponsor this award.”

Kunst was part of a group of 39 entrepreneurs selected as finalists by an independent panel of judges, the announcement said. The finalist candidates were evaluated based on their demonstration of building long-term value through entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, growth and impact, among other core contributions and attributes.

 
“The 2024 Entrepreneur of the Year Mountain West Award winners are exceptional business leaders fueling innovation within their industries and growth within their companies,” said Shawn Goff, partner and Entrepreneur of the Year Mountain West program co-director. "These entrepreneurs are shining examples of how to lead a scaling business and also care for their employees, customers and communities.”