Applications Open for 69th Cork Business of the Year Awards

Cork businesses can now apply for one of the region's most prestigious commercial honours, with the Cork Business Association opening entries for its 2026 Cork Business of the Year Awards. The free-to-enter competition, celebrating nearly seven decades of Cork enterprise, will culminate in a gala dinner at Vienna Woods on 28 March.

The Cork Business Association has launched applications for the 2026 Cork Business of the Year Awards, marking the 69th edition of one of Ireland's longest-running business recognition programmes.

Businesses across Cork City can submit free applications until 20 February 2026 through the CBA website. The winners will be announced at the President's Dinner and Awards ceremony on Saturday, 28 March 2026, at Vienna Woods.

Twelve Award Categories

This year's competition features 12 categories spanning Cork's diverse business landscape: Best Cork Restaurant, Best Cork Café, Best Cork Retail Business, Best Festival or Event, Best Cork Hotel, Best VFI Pub, Best in Culture, Arts and Tourism, Best New Business, Best Cork Family Business, Best Service Business, Best Cork Content Creator, and Sustainable Business Innovation.

An independent judging panel includes Lord Mayor Deirdre Cole, representatives from Fáilte Ireland, the Local Enterprise Office Cork City, Visit Cork, the Irish Examiner, and the CBA President. Up to four businesses will be shortlisted in each category before the winners are revealed at the March ceremony.

More Than Recognition

The awards serve a dual purpose beyond celebrating Cork's commercial excellence. As the CBA's primary annual fundraiser, the event supports the Association's ongoing work promoting and supporting Cork City businesses throughout the year.

Michelle O'Gorman, Head of Retail at Kilkenny Group, reflected on winning the overall award in 2025:

"Being named Overall Cork Business of the Year at the 2025 Cork Business Association Awards was a hugely proud moment for everyone at Kilkenny Design. It recognised the dedication of our Cork team and our ongoing commitment to Irish design, craftsmanship and retail excellence."

President's Dinner

The awards presentation forms the centrepiece of the CBA President's Dinner, described as a highlight of Cork's business calendar. The evening features locally sourced food, networking opportunities, complimentary beverages from Cork suppliers, live entertainment, and dancing.

Dave O'Brien, President of Cork Business Association, said:

"With a legacy spanning almost seven decades, the Cork Business of the Year Awards don't just celebrate excellence, they sustain it. They recognise the businesses that make Cork City special, while ensuring the CBA can continue its vital work supporting and promoting our city year-round."

Tickets for the President's Dinner are now available and traditionally sell out quickly. Both award applications and event tickets can be accessed at corkbusiness.ie.