Cork Chamber wins global recognition at awards in Australia

Cork Chamber has been announced as the first-ever Irish winner at the World Chambers Competition.

Hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce and the World Chambers Federation, the competition, held during the 14th World Chambers Congress in Melbourne, Australia, aims to recognise impactful initiatives undertaken by chambers worldwide.

At this year’s competition, Cork Chamber won in the Best Collaboration of Chambers, Business and Government category, marking the first-ever Irish win at the awards.

Cork Chamber was recognised for its Facilitating Sustainable and Competitive Growth through Local Green Deals project, which was developed in partnership with Cork City Council. The project, which has already received EU recognition for its innovative approach to sustainable urban and economic development, unites business, government, and civic partners through formally signed agreements that include measurable sustainability targets, clear timelines, and shared accountability.

Cork Chamber president Rob Horgan said that this global recognition is “a testament to the strength of collaboration in our region and the power of partnership with Cork City Council and our members”.

“As SDG Champions, we are proud to have created a model that merges climate action with economic competitiveness,” said Mr Horgan. 

“Our Local Green Deals prove that local actions, built on measurable impact, can lead to citywide, and now global, transformation.

“We are incredibly honoured to be recognised by the International Chamber of Commerce at this scale.”

Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy said that the award “places Cork firmly on the international stage as a city region that consistently punches above its weight”.

“We are immensely proud to bring this award home, not just for Cork Chamber, but for our entire business community, our partners in Cork City Council, and our shared vision for a competitive and resilient future,” said Mr Healy.

Chambers Ireland chief executive Ian Talbot said that the recognition of Cork Chamber on the global stage is “an incredibly proud moment”.

“This recognition is just reward for the hard work and excellence that Cork Chamber have consistently displayed over a long period of time,” said Mr Talbot.

“It is an example of how a chamber of commerce can play a dynamic, progressive, and positive role on the economic, environmental, and social atmosphere of their home city.”

Alicia Mateos-Cárdenas, who presented Cork’s pitch at the World Chambers Congress, said that the award is “a reflection of what’s possible when purpose meets partnership”.