The Association and Institutes Awards marked a significant moment in celebrating the organisations and individuals shaping Ireland’s professional and business sectors. Bringing together leaders from across industries, the programme recognised innovation, dedication, and excellence in how associations and institutes support their members, influence policy, and drive progress across the economy.

The awards highlighted the breadth of impact delivered by Ireland’s professional bodies, from advancing governance standards and professional education to strengthening sector advocacy and collaboration. Each winner demonstrated how clear purpose, strategic leadership, and member-focused delivery can create lasting value across complex and evolving industries.

Among the top honours in last year’s Awards Gala, Chartered Accountants Ireland was recognised with the Overall Excellence Award, reflecting its sustained leadership and influence across the profession. Solar Ireland (ISEA) was named Best Association of the Year, acknowledged for its role in supporting the growth of Ireland’s solar and renewable energy sector. The Institute of Directors Ireland received the Best Institute of the Year award, recognising its contribution to leadership development and corporate governance excellence.

Past winners also spoke to the value of the recognition. Learnovate, awarded Best Membership Services for the second year in a row, highlighted the importance of the awards in showcasing research-led innovation and excellence in education and learning. As Dave Farrelly, Head of Membership Services at Learnovate, noted, the recognition carried significant value for both the organisation and the wider sector.

For years, the Association and Institutes Awards provided a platform to acknowledge organisations setting benchmarks for excellence, advocacy, and innovation across Ireland’s professional landscape. This feature captures a snapshot of those achievements, reflecting the impact and leadership demonstrated by the award recipients.

For further details on past winners and judging insights, visit the official Association and Institutes Awards website for exclusive updates.