Applications officially open for Network West Cork Businesswoman of the Year awards

Applications have officially opened for the Network Ireland West Cork Businesswoman of the Year awards 2026.

The awards aim to celebrate and recognise the outstanding achievements of female professionals and business owners.

Women will be recognised across eight categories, including Networker of the Year, Emerging Businesswoman, Solo Businesswoman, Established Businesswoman, Early Career Employee, Advanced Career Employee, Creative Professional, and STEM Professional.

Network Ireland will run 17 local branch finals, including the West Cork event. The winners of these will go forward to represent their branch at a national level.

Anna Groniecka, President of Network Ireland West Cork, said that the awards celebrate the courage, creativity and commitment of women “who are not only shaping business in our region but who are choosing to rise beyond fear, beyond limits and beyond old stories that no longer serve them”.

She added: “Under our 2026 theme #RiseBeyond we recognise that every woman’s journey is unique, and every step forward whether bold or quiet, is a triumph. These awards are about amplifying that bravery, building connection and inspiring every woman to rise beyond what she once thought possible.”

Last year, the achievements of some of West Cork’s most dynamic and inspiring businesswomen were honoured at the annual Network Ireland West Cork Businesswoman of the Year Awards with six category winners.

Carly O’Donovan, Managing Director of Bluebird Care Kerry & West Cork and West Cork Established Businesswoman of the Year, went on to win the National Established Businesswoman of the Year 2025 at the Network Ireland Businesswoman of the Year Awards last September in Killarney.

The closing date for applications is April 16, and the award winners will be announced at a special ceremony at Dunmore House Hotel on May 21.

• See: https://networkireland.ie/page/Businesswoman_of_the_Year_Awards