Cork Chamber’s Flagship Business Awards Open for Entries with New Sponsor KPMG

The Cork Company of the Year Awards 2026 are officially open for entries, marking the beginning of another exciting chapter in celebrating the best of Cork business. This year also brings added momentum to the prestigious awards as Cork Chamber welcomes KPMG as the new title sponsor.

Widely regarded as one of the most sought-after accolades in Irish business, the Cork Chamber awards honour outstanding achievement, innovation and impact across four distinct categories, reflecting the full diversity and dynamism of Cork’s enterprise landscape.

Rob Horgan, President of Cork Chamber said, “As Cork continues to grow its national and global influence, these awards offer a powerful opportunity to spotlight the inspiring journeys of local companies, both emerging and established, who are driving innovation, building resilience and shaping a more sustainable future.

The involvement of KPMG as our new awards sponsor brings with it deep industry insight and a shared ambition to champion excellence in business. We are thrilled to partner with a brand so deeply connected to Ireland’s business ecosystem.”

Conor Healy, CEO of Cork Chamber, said, “The Cork Company of the Year Awards are a true highlight in our calendar, celebrating the ambition and creativity that define Cork business. Each year, we are inspired by the calibre of entries and the remarkable achievements they represent. These awards shine a light on the very best of what our region has to offer, and I would encourage companies of all sizes and sectors to put themselves forward and share their success stories.”

The awards are open for entries across four categories, Emerging, SME, Large and International Cork Company of the Year.

Naoimh Frawley, Director of People, Operations & Governance at Cork Chamber added, “In a rapidly evolving business environment, Cork companies continue to set the bar high in innovation, talent and sustainability. This year, with the fresh energy brought by our new sponsor KPMG, and the support of our media partner, the Irish Examiner, we look forward to shining an even brighter light on Cork’s most progressive and inspiring businesses. Whether you’re a start-up or a multinational, we want to hear your story.”

As title sponsor, KPMG will bring strategic insight and national visibility to this year’s  awards process. Cian Kelliher, Consulting Partner with KPMG, commented, “KPMG is proud to support the Cork Company of the Year Awards, which celebrate the remarkable businesses contributing to Ireland’s economic success. We are excited to work with Cork Chamber to elevate the profile of Cork’s business community and to recognise organisations that are leading with purpose and ambition. These awards mirror our own values of Integrity, excellence, courage, for better and together, and we look forward to an inspiring awards ahead.”

The 2025 Overall Cork Company of the Year title was awarded to Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine which marked 20 years in Cork by achieving both International and Overall winner status.

Companies interested in applying can visit www.corkchamber.ie/cork-company-of-the-year-awards for more information and to complete the application form.
Closing date for entries is Friday 10 October 2025.

Category winners and the Overall Cork Company of the Year 2026 will be announced in February 2026.

===== NOTES =====

 Categories for Cork Company of the Year  

• Emerging Cork Company of the year (<5 years in business) 

• SME Cork Company of the year (<75 employees) 

• Large Cork Company of the year (>75 employees) 

• Cork International Company of the year  

 Judging Panel: LINK HERE 

2025 Cork Company of the Year Awardees were: 

• Ground Wellbeing for Emerging Cork Company of the Year 2025

• National Beauty Distribution for SME Cork Company of the Year 2025

• Keohane Seafoods for Large Cork Company of the Year 2025

• Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine for International (& Overall) Cork Company of the Year 2025