The Duhallow Business Awards were launched recently.

Showcasing the best of Duhallow

Now in their ninth year, these awards give businesses the opportunity to receive recognition for their continuous dedication and commitment, especially during challenging times. IRD Duhallow CEO, Maura Walsh explained that there is great enthusiasm for the awards: “The IRD Duhallow Business Awards is the biggest event of the year for the Duhallow business community. The awards are designed to celebrate all types and sizes of business and community organisations.

“Last year the awards event was the biggest ever and the competition was strong and there was so much energy and enthusiasm around the awards and the gala event.”

The award categories and sponsors include:

Best Start Up - AIB

• Best Established Business – Kanturk Mart

• Best Food Business – Kanturk Printers

• Best Community Enterprise – McCarthy Insurance Group

• Best Women Led Business – Bank of Ireland

• Best in the Creative Industry – SE Systems

Padraic O’Connell, Chairman of the IRD Duhallow Enterprise Working Group, said: “Our Category Sponsors have returned again this year and we have added a new category – Best Food Business. This ongoing endorsement shows the importance of the competition and the event to the region.

“Their support enables IRD Duhallow to bring the awards to a new level and we are proud to deliver on such a prestigious event. We would like to thank our sponsors for their continued support. ”

The awards were launched officially by IRD Duhallow Chairperson Michael Twohig at the event in the James O’Keeffe Institute, Newmarket.

The winners will be announced at a gala banquet taking place on Thursday 23 November in the James O’Keeffe Institute, kicking off at 7.30pm with a drink’s reception and followed by a gala dinner and awards ceremony. The master of ceremonies will be actor and comedian Alan Shortt.

Nominations are now open and can be made on the IRD Duhallow website at www.irdduhallow.com/enterprise-development/awards/.

Tickets are priced at €60pp and can be purchased through the IRD Duhallow website, contacting the IRD Duhallow office on 029-60633 or emailing duhallowskillnet@irdduhallow.com.