Following the success of last year’s incredible event in Limerick, we are delighted to begin work on the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Awards. This marks the 24th consecutive year of the programme, and a particularly special one as we celebrate the 100-year anniversary of our headline sponsor, IPB Insurance.

Planning is already well underway for this year’s gala awards, which will take place on Saturday 24th October 2026 at the Convention Centre Dublin. We are very pleased to be hosted by Dublin City Council for what promises to be another memorable celebration of communities from across the island of Ireland.

We have now entered the nominations phase, with liaison officers across both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland beginning to submit entries. Each year, the awards recognise the outstanding efforts of community groups, volunteers, and local organisations who demonstrate a strong commitment to civic pride, inclusion, and improving the places in which they live.

Our panel of volunteer judges is preparing for a busy summer schedule of visits, where they will have the opportunity to see first-hand the impact of the work being carried out in towns, villages, and neighbourhoods nationwide. We anticipate receiving a wide range of inspiring entries over the coming weeks and months, each highlighting the vital role that community-led initiatives play in supporting wellbeing, social connection, and local development.

We look forward to celebrating these achievements later in the year and to bringing communities together once again for a very special awards ceremony in October.