Irish Sport Industry Awards 2026: Celebrating Excellence Across the Sector.

The Irish Sport Industry Awards continue to stand as a powerful platform to showcase the very best of sport in Ireland. Uniquely positioned to tell the story of the industry as a whole, the awards recognise recent achievements across the sector while shining a light on the incredible contribution of organisations, partners, and individuals who are driving sport and physical activity forward.

From grassroots participation to high-performance innovation, the awards capture the breadth and impact of Ireland’s sporting landscape. They celebrate not only success, but also ambition, creativity, and the commitment to shaping the future of sport.

As the 2026 awards approach, organisations across the country are encouraged to submit their entries and be part of that story. This is an opportunity to showcase the positive work being done every day, helping to paint a broader, more vibrant picture of the sporting industry in Ireland.

Strong partnerships are at the heart of modern sport, and the Best Commercial Partnership in Sport category recognises collaborations that deliver real impact.

This award celebrates partnerships that go beyond traditional sponsorship. It focuses on those that create meaningful engagement, align shared values, and achieve measurable outcomes for both the sporting organisation and the commercial partner. Whether through innovative campaigns, creative activations, or long-term strategic alignment, successful entries will demonstrate clear evidence of audience growth and engagement, mutual benefits and shared objectives, and measurable impact such as reach, return on investment, and brand value.

In an increasingly competitive landscape, this category highlights how collaboration can elevate sport, expand its reach, and deliver lasting value for all involved.

In today’s digital world, storytelling and connection are more important than ever. The Best Use of Communications Platforms in Sport category recognises organisations that are cutting through the noise with innovative and engaging digital content.

This award celebrates those who have successfully built and nurtured a community of sports fans through creative use of communications platforms, whether through social media, campaigns, or integrated digital strategies. Judges will be looking for evidence of building and engaging a strong digital audience, originality and standout execution in a crowded space, and measurable growth supported by clear data and insights.

This category reflects the evolving nature of sport, where digital platforms play a key role in connecting communities, promoting participation, and amplifying the voice of sport across Ireland and beyond.

Submitting a strong entry is essential. The judges can only assess what is presented, so clarity, structure, and impact are key. Keep your submission concise, tell your story in clear and simple language, and ensure your key achievements are easy to understand.

The most successful entries combine both quantitative data and qualitative insight, backed up with evidence. Metrics such as participation growth, audience reach, or campaign performance are crucial in demonstrating impact, while strong observations help bring your story to life.

Make sure to address all judging criteria for your chosen category, provide supporting materials such as presentations or media links, and tailor each submission if entering multiple categories.

Above all, be clear about your goals, your delivery, and your outcomes.

The Irish Sport Industry Awards are more than just a celebration. They are a reflection of the innovation, dedication, and passion that define sport in Ireland.

By submitting your entry, you are not only showcasing your organisation’s achievements, but also contributing to a wider narrative about the strength and future of the sporting sector.

So don’t miss your chance. Get your entry in and be part of Ireland’s sporting story.

Entries close April 2nd