The ‘IPB Pride of Place Awards’ is an annual competition organised by peacebuilding charity Co-operation Ireland and sponsored by IPB Insurance. It was established to promote and celebrate excellence in community development, and to recognise the efforts of individuals and groups who work tirelessly to make their local neighbourhoods better places in which to live, work and socialise.
The competition was founded in 1979 as Co-operation North by Dr Brendan O’Regan from the mid-west region who played a significant role in advancing peace and addressing conflict arising from the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Dr O’Regan first set up Co-Operation Ireland as Co-Operation North to break down cross-border divisions through economic, cultural, and social co-operation between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
As well as being the 24th consecutive year of the awards, 2026 also celebrates the 100-year anniversary of the headline sponsor, IPB Insurance. Chief Executive of Dublin City Council Richard Shakespeare said: “This is a celebration of the extraordinary people and groups whose dedication, vision and community spirit continue to make towns, villages and neighbourhoods better places to live, work and visit. “
The invaluable work carried out by volunteers and local organisations throughout the country plays a vital role in building strong, connected and vibrant communities, while also setting an inspiring example for future generations.”
Ian Jeffers, CEO of Co-operation Ireland said: “Pride of Place continues to showcase the very best of community spirit across Ireland. Every year we see inspiring examples of people coming together to improve their local areas, strengthen connections and create places where everyone feels they belong.
“It is a fitting celebration of the extraordinary work being carried out by communities in every county across the island and an opportunity for us all to celebrate the centenary of IPB Insurance, which shares our mission of bringing people together so that peace can prosper.
Tom Dowling, Chairman of IPB Pride of Place, said that the purpose of these awards is to meaningfully acknowledge and celebrate the work undertaken by communities throughout the island of Ireland.
“Our Pride of Place nominees nominated by their local authority are consistently working to make their places wonderful caring places to live in. Our judges are looking forward to another year of inspirational judging experiences,” he added.
John Hogan, IPB Chairperson, said: “As we mark IPB’s centenary year, it’s especially fitting that this year’s awards will be among the largest ever, hosted in the Convention Centre, featuring a special IPB centenary award. We look forward to recognising the outstanding achievements of communities across Ireland in October.”
