Awards Categories

The “Leading Business Resource Award” award celebrates an exemplary organisation that has consistently demonstrated exceptional support to businesses of all sizes and industries. This prestigious recognition honors their unwavering commitment to providing valuable services, expert guidance, and innovative solutions that have empowered numerous businesses to overcome challenges, achieve success, and reach new heights in their respective fields. Their dedication to excellence has made them a vital partner in the business community.

The judges will be reviewing the overall quality of the work, technologies deployed, standard of design, how strategies and campaigns were devised to achieve their objectives, and the return on investment clients received for the projects.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. What Support Is/ Was Offered
2. Discuss Past and Current Initiatives / Campaigns
3. Growth
4. Results Achieved
5. Any additional relevant information

The Consultancy Firm of the Year award recognises an exceptional consulting company that has demonstrated excellence in providing innovative solutions and assist with business transformation while delivering tangible results to its clients. This accolade celebrates their ability to navigate complex challenges, drive growth, and make a positive impact on businesses. With unrivaled expertise, they stand out as the industry’s premier consultancy firm.

This category recognises companies that go above and beyond to offer their services and to clients and businesses
When filling in your application form, try to include the following:

1. Services Offered
2. Customer Accessability & Support
3. Innovation and adapting to Changing Environment
4. Any additional relevant information

The “Best Customer Experience” award recognises a business that prioritises and delivers exceptional customer satisfaction. The winner in this category will demonstrate a deep understanding of their customers’ needs, consistently provided top- class service, and personalised experiences. Their commitment to going above and beyond to create a positive and memorable journey for their customers sets them apart as industry leaders.

This category recognises companies that go above and beyond to offer excellent customer service to customers.

This award will recognise organisations that are performing to the highest levels in Customer Service, with a shared vision, a joined-up strategy, a commensurate culture, customer journey mapping and consistent delivery, culminating in excellent business results.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Customer Engagement
2. Initiatives Implemented
3. Company Growth
4. USP
5. Any additional relevant information

The “Best Energy Provider to Business” award recognises an energy company that has demonstrated excellence in providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions to businesses. The recipient of this award will have a strong track record of delivering high-quality services, competitive pricing, energy efficiency initiatives, outstanding customer support, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.

The judges will be looking for a clear plan and evidence that it is delivering on core objectives:

1. Services Offered
2. Client Engagement
3. Innovation
4. USP
5. Any additional relevant information

The “Best in the Community” award celebrates an exceptional team or organisation that has made a significant positive impact within their local community. This esteemed recognition honours their exemplary dedication to social responsibility, philanthropic efforts, and transformative initiatives that have enriched the lives of community members. This company will have made the most imaginative attempt to aid the wider community socially, culturally or economically.

Provide evidence of demonstrable progress or success.

Show how the project has made a difference to the target community.

Outline how staff contributed to the success of the project.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Services Engaged
2. Community Improvements
3. Innovation and Success
4. Community Involvement
5. Any additional relevant information

The “ Best in Innovation” award celebrates a company that has demonstrated exceptional ingenuity, creativity, and ambition in driving innovation. This prestigious
recognition honours businesses that push boundaries through groundbreaking products, pioneering technologies, and transformative ideas that create a lasting impact on industries and society. It also acknowledges companies that actively invest in innovation, fostering a culture of progress and forward-thinking ambition.
As a leader in innovation, this company plays a crucial role in shaping Ireland’s future, inspiring others to embrace bold, game-changing ideas that drive meaningful change and economic growth.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Groundbreaking Products & Services – Demonstration of innovative products, services, or solutions that disrupt or enhance the market.
2. Pioneering Technologies – Effective use of emerging or cutting-edge technologies to drive change and create new opportunities.
3. Investment in Innovation – Commitment to research and development, funding, or resources allocated to fostering innovation.
4. Culture of Innovation – Efforts to embed innovation within the company’s ethos, encouraging creativity, risk-taking, and continuous improvement.
5. Scalability & Sustainability – Potential for long-term success, adaptability, and sustainable impact in the market or community.

This award honours a business excelling in online retail or B2B commerce. It recognises innovation, seamless user experience, mobile optimisation, secure payments, and strong digital marketing.
Logistics, customer service, and adaptability to e-commerce trends will be taken into account. This award celebrates businesses that leverage technology to enhance accessibility, engagement, and sales, setting a high standard in Ireland’s digital marketplace. Winning signifies excellence in digital transformation, customer satisfaction, and commercial success in the ever-evolving world of e-commerce.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Customer Engagement & Support
2. Sales Growth & Market Impact
3. Innovation & Digital Strategy
4. Security & Compliance

In a highly competitive talent market, with labour and skills shortages across all sectors, being recognised as a great place to work is vital to attract and retain the best people. This award celebrates an organisation that goes the extra mile through all stages of the employee lifecycle. Considerations will include wellbeing, personal and professional development, and flexibility which are as important as salary and other financial incentives.

This Category Recognises companies that go above and beyond to make their place of work the best for employees and staff alike
When filling in your application form, try to include the following:

1. Employee Recognition
2. Benefits
3. Development Opportunities
4. Initatives

This award honours a public or semi-state organisation that goes above and beyond in developing talent through outstanding apprenticeship programmes. Recognised organisations are those that invest in their apprentices, champion diversity and inclusion, and shape training to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. Through a strong culture of mentorship and continuous development, these employers help future-proof the public service and showcase the powerful role of apprenticeships in driving innovation and long-term excellence.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Commitment to Apprentice Development
2. Impact and Outcomes
3. Innovation in Apprenticeship Delivery
4. Inclusivity and Diversity

The “Brand of the Year” award acknowledges an exceptional brand that has successfully established itself as a symbol of excellence, innovation, and trust in its industry. This prestigious recognition celebrates the brand’s ability to connect with its target audience, deliver superior products/services, and maintain a positive reputation. Through its compelling identity and consistent commitment to quality, the brand has set a benchmark for others to follow, becoming an inspiration for effective brand building and marketing strategies.

This award recognises outstanding brands in Ireland. Your entry should show how your company has a clear focus, how it caters to the customer, if it champions Irish, commitment to sustainability and any USP’s

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Quality
2. Delivery of excellence and uniqueness
3. Engagement with customers
4. Brand Sustainability
5. Any additional relevant information

The “Business Woman of the Year” award celebrates a remarkable female leader who has excelled in the business landscape, setting new standards for success and breaking barriers. This prestigious recognition honors her exemplary leadership, outstanding achievements, and significant contributions to her industry and community. She serves as a powerful role model, inspiring other women to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and make a lasting impact in the business world.

The winner of this category will be a woman who’s a proven achiever, having forged a successful career in Ireland through pursuing her creative passions. Your entry should show you demonstrating a higher propensity for risk, innovation and achievement. The main characteristics the judges are looking for include innovation, passion, resourcefulness and risk-taking.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Planning & organisation
2. Leading
3. Organisational control
4. Company Future
5. Any additional relevant information

The “Businessman of the Year” award celebrates an outstanding individual who has demonstrated remarkable leadership, innovation, and success in their business endeavors. This prestigious recognition honors their exceptional vision, strategic acumen, and positive impact on their industry and community. The recipient’s dedication to excellence, entrepreneurial spirit, and significant achievements make them an inspiring role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.

The winner of this category will be someone who is a proven achiever, having forged a successful career in Ireland. Your entry should show you demonstrating a higher propensity for risk, innovation and achievement. The main characteristics the judges are looking for include innovation, passion, resourcefulness and risk-taking.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Planning & organisation
2. Leading
3. Organisational control
4. Company Future
5. Any additional relevant information

This award recognises organisations that demonstrate the core values of business innovation, product innovation, technological achievement and employee engagement.

When filling in your application form, try to include  information about the following:

1. Company Innovation

2. Employee Engagement and Support

3.  Product & Purpose

4. Development

5. Any additional relevant information

This award acknowledges a financial institution / service distinguished for their outstanding services customised to meet the distinct requirements of businesses nationwide. This company will excel in delivering innovative solutions, expert guidance, and exceptional business customer service, fostering the success and expansion of businesses across diverse industries. Emphasising accessibility, reliability, and forward-thinking strategies, they significantly contribute to driving economic prosperity and nurturing entrepreneurship within the Irish business community. Furthermore, their unwavering commitment to the green agenda underscores their dedication to sustainable practices.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Financial stability and performance.
2. Customer satisfaction and service quality.
3. Range and quality of products/services.
4. Innovation in technology and banking solutions.
5. Corporate social responsibility and ethical practices.

The Fintech Company of the Year Award honors a pioneering company making a significant impact on financial technology. It recognises innovation, excellence, and leadership in digital banking, payments, lending, blockchain, and AI-driven solutions. Winners demonstrate outstanding growth, technological advancements, customer engagement, and market influence. Companies prioritising security, compliance, and financial inclusion are highly regarded. This award celebrates organisations transforming the financial landscape, enhancing accessibility, and setting new industry standards through cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency, transparency, and seamless digital financial experiences for businesses and consumers.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Innovation & Technological Advancement
2. Market Impact & Growth
3. Customer Experience & Satisfaction
4. Financial Inclusion & Accessibility
5. Any additional relevant information

The award will recognise strong initiatives between business and educational organisations and look at what steps they are taking (individually or jointly) to enable people to achieve the steps towards improving their skills. This award also aims to recognise businesses and/or organisations that have identified inspiring initiatives to develop the mindset of young people, apprentices or students as regards to career opportunities open to them

This Category recognises companies that go above and beyond to improve and individuals

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Program Effectiveness
2. Innovation and Relevance
3. Measurable Outcomes
4. Accessibility and Inclusivity
5. Industry Recognition
6. Any additional relevant information

The “Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Company of the Year” award recognises a standout company that has demonstrated exceptional dedication to promoting diversity, equality, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond. This accolade celebrates their commitment to fostering a diverse workforce, creating inclusive environments, and implementing impactful initiatives that champion equal opportunities for all. Through their unwavering efforts, they set a standard for social responsibility and serve as a role model for promoting positive change in society.

This category recognises individuals and organisations that have proven to positively promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The entry should include any initiatives or actions taken to advance equality irrespective of disabilities , genders, race, faith, sexual orientation, age and culture

This award will be judged based on your company’s commitment and impact. Include a clear culture of inclusion, innovative DE&I policies, strong leadership, alignment with core values, ethical and social impact. Please provide example’s and recent data, demonstrating a sincere dedication to fostering diversity, inclusion, and equality.

The “Facilities Management Company of the Year” award celebrates an outstanding organisation that has demonstrated excellence and expertise in providing comprehensive facilities management solutions. This recognition honors their commitment to delivering top-rate services, ensuring optimal building performance, and creating exceptional work environments. The recipient’s ability to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and customer satisfaction in facilities management sets them apart as a leader in the industry, making a significant impact in Ireland’s business landscape.

This Category recognises companies in the facility management industry that have made remarklable achievements and have gone above and beyond to offer their services to clients. Showcase innovative approaches, technologies, or practices employed in your facility management services that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Client Satisfaction
2. Innovation in Facility Management
3. Compliance and Safety
4. Sustainability Initiatives
5. Community Engagement
6. Any additional relevant information

The “Foreign Direct Investment Company of the Year” award seeks to honor a company that exemplifies excellence in all aspects of its operations and makes a substantial and lasting positive impact on Ireland’s economy, society, and environment. The winning company will serve as a role model for other FDI businesses operating in Ireland and inspire continued excellence and positive contributions to the country’s development.

This Category Recognises companies that go above and beyond to showcase their services in the investment industry

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Investment Impact
2. Innovation and Expansion
3. Sustainability Commitment
4. Government and Stakeholder Relations
5. Industry Recognition
6. Any additional relevant information

The “Franchise of the Year” award aims to recognize a franchise that stands out as a role model for excellence and success in the Irish franchising industry. This prestigious accolade celebrates the franchise’s ability to deliver high-quality products or services, maintain strong customer satisfaction. The winner will inspire and motivate other franchises to strive for excellence, innovation, and positive contributions to the local economy and community.

This Category Recognises companies that go above and beyond to showcase their Irish Franchising industry. Judges will look to see how you’ve adapted to local markets, leveraged technology, or employed unique market entry tactics.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Investment Impact
2. Innovation and Expansion
3. Sustainability Commitment
4. Government and Stakeholder Relations
5. Industry Recognition
6. Any additional relevant information

The “Green / Sustainable Company of the Year” award honors an exemplary business that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to environmental sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This prestigious recognition celebrates the company’s efforts in reducing its carbon footprint, implementing sustainable initiatives, and promoting environmentally responsible policies across its operations. Through innovative practices, energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction measures, and support for environmental causes, this company stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship and sets an inspiring example for businesses nationwide.

This award celebrates Company/ Organisations who have stepped up in interesting and innovative ways to reduce our impact on the environment.
Judges will be looking for
– steps taken to reduce and recycle waste within your organisation.
– efforts to engage with “green” suppliers, or to source local, Irish and sustainable products/materials to ensure the achievement of your sustainability objectives.
– activities your Company/ Organisation has recently taken to conserve biodiversity, use biological resources sustainably, improve natural habitats.
– the steps your Company/ Organisation has taken to improve energy efficiency and/or water efficiency.

When filling in your application form, also try to include information about the following:

1. Innovation
2. Results
3. Environmental Impact
4. Sustainability Initiatives
5. Any additional relevant information

ICT Company of the Year  is a category that recognises a proactive IT firm that delivers Information and communication technology services. The focus will be on how these companies specialising in digital technologies assist businesses in handling information and anticipates the needs of their clients. Services offered can be cloud, networks, devices, backup solutions and many more. ICT is hugely significant for the economy and offers benefits across multiple sectors.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1.Innovation and Technology
2.Market Leadership
3.Client Success Stories
4.Industry Recognitions
5.Sustainability and Ethics
6. Any additional relevant information

Pensions & Life Assurance recognises outstanding commitment to securing the financial futures of businesses and their employees. This prestigious accolade honours a dedication to providing comprehensive pension and life assurance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of enterprises. Through innovative strategies and trusted expertise, the recipient demonstrates excellence in safeguarding business assets and ensuring the well-being of employees. This award underscores the vital role played by the recipient in supporting the long-term financial stability and prosperity of businesses.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Detailed Coverage: Demonstrating the ability to offer a wide range of pension and life assurance solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of businesses and their employees.
2. Innovation in Strategies: Implementing innovative approaches and strategies in designing and delivering pension and life assurance plans, ensuring they are effective and competitive in the market.
3. Client Satisfaction: Maintaining a high level of client satisfaction through exceptional customer service, responsiveness to client needs, and clear communication throughout the process.
4. Financial Stability: Exhibiting strong financial stability and reliability, ensuring the ability to fulfill long-term commitments and provide security for businesses and their employees.
5. Regulatory Compliance: Adhering to all relevant regulations and standards in the pension and life assurance industry, ensuring ethical practices and legal compliance in all aspects of service delivery.

Entries for this award should focus on a case that has a significant Irish element to it and that sets new standards in the delivery of life science services, thereby demonstrating the companies market-leading position. You should summarise the matters key features, explain its significance. Those shortlisted may fall under the following pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, biomedical technologies,and others that dedicate their efforts to creating products to improve the lives of organisms.

This Category Recognises companies in this industry that goes above and beyond
When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Technological Innovation
2. Resourcefulness and Research
3. Leadership within the industry
4. Development
5. Any additional relevant information

The “Logistics & Supply Chain Company of the Year ” award recognises a distinguished logistics company that has demonstrated exceptional performance, innovation, and efficiency in the transportation and management of goods and resources both nationally and internationally. This prestigious accolade celebrates the company’s ability to optimise the supply chain, deliver timely and reliable services, and contribute to the growth and success of businesses across the country. With a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, sustainability, and technological advancements, this logistics company stands as a shining example of excellence in the logistics industry in Ireland.

This Category Recognises companies that go above and beyond to provide high quality logisitis in the Irish industry
When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Strategy
2. Planning & Implementation
3. Transportation
4. Timeline from point of origin to customer
5. Any additional relevant information

The Management Team of the Year Award recognises teams demonstrating exceptional leadership, innovation, and collaboration to achieve business objectives. Criteria include strategic vision, effective communication, adaptability to market changes, and fostering a positive work culture. Judges evaluate impact on financial performance and employee satisfaction. Strong candidates display resilience, promote diversity, and implement sustainable practices. Ultimately, the winning team embodies managerial excellence, setting a standard for others to emulate.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1.Leadership abilities
2.Staff communication
3.Diversity practices
4. Innovation Management and Engagement
5. Any additional relevant information

The “Manufacturing Company of the Year ” award acknowledges an organisation that has showcased exemplary performance and innovation in the manufacturing and processing sector. This prestigious recognition honors their exceptional manufacturing and processing practices, cutting-edge technologies, and commitment to product quality and safety. The recipient’s significant contributions to the Irish economy, job creation, and industry advancement make them a standout leader in the manufacturing and processing landscape, setting new benchmarks for excellence and inspiring others in the field.

This category is open to any small to large-scale Manufacturing and processing production company of goods that converts raw materials, parts, and components into finished merchandise using manual labour and/or machines.
When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Environmental Practices
2. Strategy
3. Waste Management Practices
4. MTA, MTO and MTS
5. Any additional relevant information

The Recycling and Waste Management award will commend the leading organisation and initiatives that have demonstrated outstanding commitment and innovation in the field of waste reduction, recycling, and sustainable waste management practices. This prestigious recognition celebrates their environmental stewardship, significant contributions to waste diversion, circular economy initiatives, and their dedication to building a cleaner and greener future.

This Category Recognises companies that go above and beyond within the Recycling & Waste Management industry of Ireland

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Environmental Impact
2. Innovation in Recycling
3. Client Success Stories
4. Community Engagement:
5. Regulatory Compliance:
6. Any additional relevant information

This award recognises an outstanding recruitment company that has demonstrated excellence in talent acquisition, client satisfaction, and industry innovation. The winner will show a strong commitment to delivering exceptional hiring solutions, leveraging cutting-edge technology, and fostering long-term relationships with both clients and candidates. A dedication to ethical hiring practices, strong leadership, and measurable success in placing top talent will set the winner apart as a true leader in the recruitment industry.

When filling in your application form, try to include information about the following:

1. Innovation in Recruitment Practices
   2. Candidate Experience  & Success
   3. Staff Organisation
   4. Client and Candidate Feedback
   5. Any other relevant information