In 2025, Irish businesses have an unprecedented opportunity to showcase their commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), and sustainability through the landscape of national awards. From the National Diversity and Inclusion Awards celebrating workplace excellence to the PwC Business Post Sustainable Business Awards recognising innovative ESG practices, companies across Ireland can highlight their transformative efforts. These awards not only provide a platform for recognition but also serve as a catalyst for driving meaningful change, encouraging businesses to push boundaries in social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and inclusive workplace cultures. In addition to being excellent opportunities to network and foster new relationships while businesses get increased recongition for their efforts.

Here are the ’50 Awards in DEI or Sustainability that Irish businesses can apply to in 2025′

The WAM (Willing, Able and Mentoring) Programme works with employers to change attitudes towards graduates with disability and to create inclusive environments that build disability confidence it the workplace. This is done through encouraging employers to create internships for graduates with disabilities and facilitating the placement of those graduates

Since 2005, the AHEAD WAM Programme has secured over 700 placements for graduates with disabilities with high profile Irish employers in the public and private sector.  For more on WAM, click here.

WAM Leaders Awards

Companies become WAM leaders when they offer paid, mentored work placements for graduates with disabilities. WAM works closely with its Leaders in facilitating, supporting and evaluating work placements and building in-house staff competencies through this direct engagement with graduates with disabilities. WAM hosts yearly Leader awards to recognise the significant contribution they have made to building their disability related knowledge and providing placement opportunities.

AHEAD hosts an annual WAM Leader Awards ceremony and WAM Leader Awards are presented to employers to recognise their contribution in facilitating WAM placements and promoting the employment of graduates with disabilities for previous year. In 2024, WAM partnered with 14 major employers in securing 69 positions for graduates with disabilities in 15 counties across Ireland. 520 applications were made to WAM roles last year with half of applicants invited for interviews. Over 200 staff from WAM Employers engaged in WAM specific training and almost 1000 attendees at WAM Employer events. 

To read more about the WAM Leader awards and see what employers received an award you can visit this link The WAM Leader Awards 2024 – AHEAD

• Exporter of the Year: Honours companies that have successfully expanded their operations into international markets.
• Small Business of the Year: Celebrates the achievements of smaller-sized businesses.

The awards ceremony is a highly anticipated event attended by business leaders, government officials, and industry experts. Winners are selected through a rigorous judging process that takes into account various factors such as financial performance, growth, innovation, and social responsibility.

The Reel Art Award offers €90,000 for creative documentaries on artistic themes, while the Authored Works Award provides €185,000 for artist-led cultural film works. Finally, ilDÁNA, a joint initiative with TG4 and the BAI, supports creative documentaries on the arts in Irish, offering up to €135,000.

The awards are a great opportunity for producers to showcase their products to a wider audience and to gain recognition for their quality.

Additionally, the awards support social inclusion and diversity through categories like the Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Initiative Award, which honours companies that foster inclusive workplaces. The Social Impact Award recognises organisations making significant contributions to societal issues, while the Future ESG Leader Award can spotlight emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds.

For instance, recent award-winning projects have included initiatives that transform public spaces into inclusive performance areas, provide free studio space to artists, and pioneer university-accredited training programs in inclusive dance. These projects demonstrate a commitment to making the arts more accessible and representative of diverse communities.

Their strategy, “Catalyst,” emphasises innovation, collaboration, and sustainability as driving forces to shape a vibrant and resilient arts ecosystem. Business to Arts provides training, mentorship, and resources to help arts organisations develop sustainable funding models and diversify their income streams.

The Partnership with Charity and Community Programme categories often showcase initiatives benefiting vulnerable populations.

Additionally, the Business Partnership with Social Enterprise award, supported by the Department of Rural & Community Development, specifically recognises collaborations that empower social enterprises working with disadvantaged groups.

The Excellence in Environment category recognises innovative projects that address environmental challenges, while the Net zero Carbon Award highlights companies actively pursuing carbon reduction targets. The awards are intrinsically linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, encouraging businesses to align their practices with these global objectives. By showcasing best practices in areas like biodiversity, sustainable water management, and community engagement, the awards inspire other companies to adopt more sustainable approaches.

We advocate to ensure that the public, policy makers and the business sector recognise the essential role that charities play in our economy and our society.

We promote greater trust in our sector through transparency and high standards in governance, fundraising and financial reporting. Our Triple. Lock quality mark is recognised across the charity and corporate donor sector as the symbol of best practice.

Many of the categories  recognise organisations and initiatives indirectly promote environmental and social sustainability through their work. For instance, FoodCloud, which won Charity of the Year in 2022, focuses on redistributing surplus food to community groups and charity partners, addressing both food waste and social needs. Additionally, categories like Digital Transformation and Excellence in Charity Leadership often recognise innovative approaches that can lead to more sustainable practices within the nonprofit sector. By highlighting and celebrating these achievements, the Charity Excellence Awards play a crucial role in promoting a more sustainable and inclusive charity sector in Ireland, inspiring organisations to consider their broader impact on society and the environment.

They provide guidance, research, and training to HR professionals on topics such as unconscious bias, inclusive recruitment practices, and creating diverse and inclusive workplace cultures. CIPD Ireland also advocates for policies that support underrepresented groups, such as gender pay gap reporting and flexible working arrangements, which can benefit women, caregivers, and other marginalised groups in the workforce.

CIPD Ireland equips HR practitioners with the knowledge and tools to implement sustainable practices in areas like workforce management, employee value proposition, recruitment, wellbeing, and training. By promoting sustainable HR practices, CIPD Ireland contributes to creating more resilient, ethical, and environmentally conscious organisations.

The awards cover a wide range of disciplines, from furniture and fashion design to ceramics and glassblowing, providing crucial financial support and a platform for showcasing talent at a formative stage in the winners’ careers.

Another significant award in the Irish craft sector is the Gifted Fair Awards at the RDS, which works in conjunction with the DCCI’s Future Makers program. Gifted Fair Awards at the RDS offer five bursaries of €10,000 each to assist with the business and skills development of emerging professional Irish craft makers. To be eligible for these awards, makers must have won a Future Makers Award or Support in the previous year. The Awards provide not only financial support but also opportunities for shortlisted makers to exhibit their work at Gifted – The Contemporary Craft & Design Fair, and receive mentoring from craft and design professionals.

The rigorous evaluation process considers multiple factors, including financial performance, governance standards, and talent strategy, ensuring that only the most outstanding companies receive recognition.

In recent years, the awards have increasingly emphasised diversity, equality, and inclusion within the business landscape. Notable winners in these areas have demonstrated a commitment to fostering inclusive work environments that reflect diverse perspectives. For instance, companies like Vodafone Ireland have been recognised for their efforts in making services more accessible and promoting diversity in their workforce. Additionally, initiatives that prioritise employee well-being and inclusivity have been highlighted as exemplary practices within the award’s framework.

Participants have the opportunity to have their work reviewed by leading industry experts and gain recognition from peers.

For instance, the Sustainability Award, presented as part of the Technology Fast 50 program, recognises companies that are making significant contributions to environmental sustainability through their products, services, or operations. This was exemplified by InOpSys, a wastewater treatment specialist, winning the Sustainability Award for its innovative circular economy solutions in water purification and resource recovery.

The awards, organised in partnership with JP Morgan, aimed to showcase innovative strategies for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workplace.

The winners were announced at a gala ceremony held at Clontarf Castle, Dublin, on April 11, 2024. This year’s event underscored the importance of adaptability and growth in a rapidly changing environment, showcasing businesses that have not only survived but thrived.

By featuring diverse success stories and highlighting entrepreneurs from different sectors and regions, the program inspires and encourages participation from a wide range of business leaders, potentially giving visibility to underrepresented groups in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Sustainability is an important aspect of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Ireland programme, reflecting the growing importance of environmental and social responsibility in business. The programme includes a Sustainability Award, which recognises the critical importance of innovative leadership in meeting our collective sustainability challenges. This award is presented to the finalist who is making the biggest contribution towards environmental sustainability through their business. By highlighting and celebrating entrepreneurs who prioritise sustainable practices and social responsibility, the programme encourages more business leaders to integrate these principles into their strategies, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable business environment.

By showcasing success stories from various sectors and backgrounds, the award has the potential to inspire and encourage participation from a wide range of entrepreneurs, including those from underrepresented groups in the Irish business ecosystem. The award’s criteria include factors such as the founder’s vision, the company’s growth and scaling potential, sustainable business practices, robustness of its financial model and its impact on the Irish economy.

The Great Place to Work framework is built on employee feedback via the Trust Index employee survey, ensuring that the recognised organisations genuinely reflect the voices of their workforce. This emphasis on employee input helps companies understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

In 2024, the awards featured various categories of Special Awards like the Great Place to Work Ambassadors, attributed to Gráinne Quinn from Global, who was acknowledged for her efforts in promoting a great workplace culture in the Great Place to Work Community. Notable winners included Kevin O’Donovan from Statkraft Ireland, as the Most Truster Leader of the year, for his leadership and commitment to renewable energy, and these awards not only honour achievements but also provide valuable insights into best practices for cultivating a thriving work environment. In addition to individual accolades, special awards such as the Hybrid Way of Working Award and the Future of Work Award encourage organisations to innovate in their approaches to work-life balance and flexibility.

By celebrating these achievements, Great Place to Work inspire other organisations to adopt similar practices, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more productive work culture across Ireland. The event serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering trust and engagement within teams, reinforcing that a positive workplace is essential for both employee satisfaction and organisational success.

This inclusive approach allows for diverse voices and perspectives to be highlighted in the sustainability space, potentially inspiring underrepresented groups to engage in environmental initiatives.

The Green Awards are presented for achievements in areas such as green products and services, sustainable energy, waste management, green tourism, and sustainable water management. The program also recognises excellence in green communications, education, and community leadership. By spotlighting best practices across these diverse categories, the Green Awards play a crucial role in promoting and accelerating sustainable business practices in Ireland.

Winners included notable organisations like BaxterStorey Ireland for Overall Excellence in HR, Spunout for Best Change Management Programme with their Four Day Week initiative, and Irish Distillers for Best Employer Branding Programme.

The awards recognise both large and small organisations, with categories for HR Team of the Year in companies with over 250 employees and those under 250 employees. Individual accolades are also presented, such as HR Manager of the Year and HR Rising Star of the Year, highlighting exceptional talent within the profession.

The awards feature multiple categories, including Start-up, Young Businesswoman, CEO, Entrepreneur, and Social Entrepreneur, showcasing diverse success stories that inspire and encourage more women to pursue leadership positions and entrepreneurial ventures. For instance, the Diversity & Inclusion Businesswoman of the Year category specifically recognises initiatives that create more inclusive workplaces and support marginalised communities.

By amplifying these voices and achievements, the awards contribute to breaking down barriers and promoting gender equality in the business world.

INotably, the awards also highlight efforts in diversity, equality, and inclusion through categories that recognise initiatives promoting accessibility and inclusive customer experiences.

n recent years, several organisations have been recognised for their outstanding achievements in diversity and inclusion within the customer experience realm. In 2023, Bank of Ireland won the Diversity, Equality & Inclusion Award for their comprehensive approach to creating an inclusive banking experience for all customers. Their initiatives included staff training on disability awareness, implementing accessible digital services, and developing tailored products for diverse customer groups.

Judged by an international panel, these awards benchmark Irish graduate design against global standards, providing a platform for new talent to showcase their potential in shaping the future of Irish commercial design.

Notable entries in 2024 included innovative projects like “Of Minds and Terrors” in Animation and “The Big Spread” in Brand Identity, demonstrating the diverse and forward-thinking approaches of Ireland’s graduate designers.

The Irish Design Awards, meanwhile, honour established professionals in fields such as graphic design, architecture, and product design. These awards have increasingly emphasised diversity, equality, and inclusion, recognizing projects that promote accessibility and highlight underrepresented communities.

Aerogen has been recognised not only for their product innovation but also for their commitment to fostering an inclusive work environment and promoting diversity in their global operations. Similarly, Fexco, a previous winner in the Financial Services Exporter category, has been noted for its efforts in promoting gender equality and diversity in leadership roles within the fintech sector. These examples illustrate how successful Irish exporters are increasingly integrating diversity and inclusion into their business models, recognising the value of diverse perspectives in driving innovation and global success.

Categories like “Best Small Family Business of the Year” and “Rising Star Award” provide platforms for smaller or newer enterprises to compete alongside more established companies, potentially giving visibility to businesses run by underrepresented groups.

They include a specific category for “Sustainable Family Business of the Year,” which recognises companies that have implemented innovative and effective sustainability practices. This category encourages family businesses to prioritise environmental stewardship and showcases best practices in areas such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable sourcing. Additionally, other categories like “Family Business CSR Award” and “Innovative Family Business Award” may indirectly promote sustainable and socially responsible practices.

In recent editions, there has been a growing focus on diversity, equality, and inclusion within the awards framework. Categories acknowledging these values have been introduced to recognise companies that champion inclusive practices in their operations.

For instance, in 2023, Keogh’s Crisps was awarded for their commitment to sustainable practices while promoting diversity within their workforce. Similarly, the Alternative Christmas Pudding Company was recognised as Small Producer of the Year for its efforts to create inclusive products catering to diverse dietary needs.

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to include categories that specifically recognise podcasts addressing diversity and inclusion topics, reflecting the growing importance of these themes in media.

Podcasts that have been recognised for their contributions to diversity and inclusion include “Black and Irish,” which explores the experiences of black and mixed-race individuals in Ireland. This podcast has been praised for its role in fostering understanding and celebrating cultural identity. Another notable mention is “Éalú,” a podcast that centres on people of colour in Ireland, discussing topics such as representation, cultural experiences, and identity. These podcasts not only provide a platform for underrepresented voices but also engage wider audiences in meaningful conversations about diversity and inclusion.

Several award categories and criteria now incorporate elements that recognise efforts in promoting diversity and inclusion. For instance, the “IT Professional of the Year” and “CIO of the Year” categories often highlight nominees who have championed diversity initiatives within their organisations. Companies nominated for “Tech Company of the Year” are evaluated not only on their technological innovations but also on their commitment to creating inclusive work environments. Some winners in recent years have been recognised for their efforts in implementing mentorship programs for underrepresented groups in tech, creating employee resource groups, and developing inclusive hiring practices. For example, Fidelity Investments Ireland, a previous winner, was noted for its comprehensive DEI strategy, including initiatives to increase gender diversity in leadership roles and support for LGBTQ+ employees. While the Irish Tech Excellence Awards continue to primarily focus on technological achievements, the increasing consideration of DEI efforts in their evaluation criteria reflects the growing importance of these values in the tech industry and encourages companies to prioritise diversity and inclusion alongside innovation.

This accreditation helps businesses retain valuable staff, increase efficiency, minimise legislative risk, and enhance their reputation as inclusive employers. Additionally, the Menopause Workplace Excellence Awards, in partnership with Great Place to Work, celebrate companies that lead the way in providing menopause support, recognising those that foster thriving, diverse workplaces.

The awards feature categories such as the Refugee Mental Health Award, supported by UNHCR and Irish Red Cross, which specifically focuses on stories related to the mental health experiences of refugees and asylum seekers in Ireland, further amplifying the voices of these underrepresented groups.

Categories like the Special Recognition Award, which honours people with lived experience of mental health challenges who share their stories to educate a wider audience, foster a more empathetic and understanding society. The Student Journalism Award encourages the next generation of media professionals to approach mental health reporting with sensitivity and accuracy. By recognising and promoting responsible, inclusive, and destigmatising media coverage, these awards contribute to creating a more sustainable and supportive social environment for individuals dealing with mental health issues. This emphasis on quality reporting and storytelling helps build a foundation for long-term societal change in attitudes towards mental health.

By showcasing a wide range of entries, the awards promote inclusivity and encourage brands to consider the unique challenges faced by different family structures.

This visibility not only supports diverse voices in the parenting community but also inspires companies to develop more inclusive products. 

The awards highlight brands that prioritise sustainability in their offerings, such as biodegradable nappies, organic baby food and ethically sourced materials for children’s clothing. By rewarding companies that demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility, the awards encourage innovation in sustainable parenting solutions. For example, past winners have included brands that utilise recycled materials or implement sustainable production processes. This emphasis on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also educates parents about making eco-conscious choices for their families.

Through engaging its network, DBI provides a vast range of services to include; the annual Digital Business Ireland Summit, training and events, networking opportunities, general advisory insights, advocacy and public policy development – which collectively, facilitate digital businesses to grow, thrive and achieve their ambitions. 

Nominations and entries are now closed and the 2025 awards ceremony is scheduled for February 7th at the Clayton Hotel Burlington Road in Dublin. 

The awards not only honour achievements and also serve as a platform for sharing best practices and inspiring other organisations to prioritise diversity and inclusion in their operations.  Previous winners have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces. In recent years, notable recipients include UCD University College Dublin’s Gerardine Doyle and Geraldine Greene of An Garda Síochána, who were recognised in the Diversity & Inclusion Leader category in 2024 and 2023 respectively. Organisations such as Houses of the Oireachtas Service (2024) and Mr Price Branded Bargains (2023) have been honoured for their efforts in Advancing Disability Equality. In the Advancing Race / Ethnicity Equality category, companies like EY (2024 winner), Medtronic (2024 – Highly Commended), and Bank of Ireland (2023 winner) have been acknowledged for their initiatives. The Company of the Year award has recognised firms such as Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (2024 winner) and Cpl (2023 winner) for their comprehensive approach to diversity and inclusion. These winners exemplify the positive impact of dedicated diversity and inclusion strategies, setting benchmarks for other organisations to aspire to and contributing to a more equitable workplace landscape in Ireland.

Everyone benefits when best practice on Diversity & Inclusion is shared and the award sponsors for each category have hosted a series of webinars featuring the winners and finalists showcasing the efforts that impressed the judges.  Watch past recordings and register for upcoming sessions here – https://irishcentrefordiversity.ie/awards-webinars/

Further details available at www.NDIAwards.ie

The awards include a specific category for “Ireland’s Best Sustainability Initiative,” which recognises retailers who have implemented innovative and effective sustainability practices. This category encourages grocery retailers to prioritise environmental stewardship and showcases best practices in areas such as waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable sourcing.

The awards feature categories such as LGBTQ+ Person of the Year, Community Organisation of the Year, Young Trailblazer Award, and International Activist Award, which highlight the diverse ways in which LGBTQ+ individuals and groups are making an impact.

By showcasing these success stories, the GALAS inspire and encourage further activism and engagement within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond. The GALAS through categories like the Noel Walsh HIV Activism Award and the LGBTQ+ Ally Award. These recognitions promote ongoing efforts to address health disparities and foster inclusivity.

Sustainability is a key focus of the SFA National Small Business Awards, as evidenced by the dedicated Sustainability category. This category recognises companies that have implemented environmentally responsible practices and initiatives. The inclusion of this award encourages small businesses across Ireland to integrate sustainability into their operations and strategies. Furthermore, other categories like Innovator of the Year and Exporter of the Year may also consider sustainable practices as part of their evaluation criteria. By highlighting and rewarding sustainable business practices, the SFA Awards play a crucial role in promoting environmentally responsible entrepreneurship among small businesses in Ireland, contributing to the country’s overall sustainability goals while fostering a more inclusive and diverse business landscape.

Additionally, the awards feature a “Startup Hero” category, which could potentially highlight entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds who have made significant contributions to the Irish startup landscape.

Sustainability is an important aspect of the National Startup Awards, reflected in the dedicated “Social / Sustainable Startup” category. This category specifically recognises startups that are addressing social or environmental challenges through innovative business models or technologies. Furthermore, the judging criteria for all categories include “Social impact,” which considers factors such as job creation, diversity policies, and social inclusion.

l funding to winners, National Pitch 24 helps level the playing field for entrepreneurs who might otherwise struggle to access resources and support, including those from underrepresented groups.

This years winner of Pitch24 was Shona Mahon’s ‘Wink with Mink Lashes‘ whilst finalists included Lana Dullaghan Designs and Aisling Ryan’s SnooZip

The 2024 edition took place on October 5th and 6th, running from 10 AM to 5 PM each day, with tickets priced at €15 for adults and free entry for children.

In addition to its exhibits and workshops, the Pregnancy & Baby Fair hosts prestigious awards recognizing excellence in the parenting and baby industry. These awards celebrate innovative products, exceptional services, and standout brands that cater to the needs of parents and their little ones. Winners gain significant recognition within the industry for their contributions to enhancing the parenting experience. The awards underscore the fair’s commitment to showcasing quality and innovation while fostering a supportive community for families across Ireland.

The awards also recognise initiatives that promote diversity, equality, and inclusion, such as projects supporting migrants, people with disabilities, and other underserved communities. By offering both cash grants and non-financial support, Rethink Ireland enables these organisations to expand their reach and increase their social impact, ultimately giving voice and resources to underrepresented groups.

The program’s emphasis on scalable solutions ensures that these initiatives can have a widespread impact, potentially transforming the lives of thousands of people from underrepresented groups across Ireland.

Campaigns focused on social and environmental issues often feature prominently in the awards. Categories such as “Best Use of Social Media by a Public Body” or “Best Social Good Campaign” can potentially highlight initiatives that address sustainability, social justice, or community empowerment.

By recognising excellence in these areas, the Sockies indirectly encourage brands and organisations to use their social media presence for positive social and environmental impact. This emphasis on impactful campaigns can inspire more businesses to integrate sustainability and social responsibility into their social media strategies, contributing to broader awareness and action on these critical issues.

The program’s structure, which includes local and national competitions, allows students from different regions and school types to compete on a level playing field, potentially giving voice to underrepresented communities across Ireland.

Categories such as the Social Enterprise of the Year and the Community Impact Award highlight initiatives that directly benefit underserved populations, including people with disabilities, migrants, low-income families, and other vulnerable groups. By showcasing these success stories, the awards inspire and encourage more organisations to develop innovative solutions for social inclusion and equality.

The Innovative Project of the Year award often recognises initiatives that address environmental challenges or promote sustainable practices within communities. The Trustee of the Year award acknowledges individuals who demonstrate good governance and responsible stewardship of resources, which are key aspects of organisational sustainability. Additionally, the Charity of the Year category considers the overall impact and long-term viability of organisations, encouraging nonprofits to adopt sustainable practices in their operations and programming. By highlighting and celebrating these achievements, The Wheel Awards play a crucial role in promoting a more sustainable and inclusive nonprofit sector in Ireland, inspiring organisations to consider their broader impact on society and the environment.

The free entry process, judged by an independent expert panel, ensures accessibility and fairness. Categories are designed to showcase professional excellence, innovation, and impact, while also acknowledging male allies who support women’s progression in the sector.

Beyond individual recognition, the awards aim to inspire future generations of women to pursue construction careers and promote broader industry goals of inclusivity and diversity. The accompanying networking event supports professional development and cross-sector collaboration, providing participants with opportunities for national and international exposure. More than an annual ceremony, the Women in Construction Awards represent a strategic initiative to transform perceptions and create meaningful change in a historically male-dominated industry, championing the significant contributions of women to construction and engineering.

By showcasing diverse success stories, the WMB Awards inspire and encourage more women to pursue leadership positions and entrepreneurial ventures. The WMB Empowering Women Award specifically recognises initiatives that facilitate and encourage the progression of women in their careers, including diversity and inclusion programs, mentoring schemes, and personal development plans.

Many of the award winners and nominees are at the forefront of implementing sustainable and socially responsible practices in their respective fields. For instance, the Compass WMB Rising Star Award recognises promising young women professionals who demonstrate shared company values, which may include a commitment to sustainability.