The Local Enterprise Office in Waterford has launched the 2026 Glas Awards as part of Climate Action Week, promoting sustainability in business in Waterford.
The Glas Awards, in association with Waterford City and County Council, aim to recognise and celebrate micro businesses in County Waterford that have made significant advances in bringing green principles into their day-to-day business activities.
Launched by the Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Jim Darcy, Acting Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford, Jacqui Gaule, and Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, Gráinne Kennedy, the awards will showcase what Waterford businesses are doing to adopt sustainability policies in a practical way.
The awards are open to small and medium-sized businesses based in Waterford County. The Green Micro Enterprise of the Year category is open to businesses with 10 or fewer employees, while the Green SME of the Year category is open to businesses with between 11 and 50 employees. The awards were launched during Climate Action Week to help promote both categories.
Each winner will receive a prize of €4,000, made up of cash and Local Enterprise Office supports, along with a themed trophy.
Jacqui Gaule, Acting Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office Waterford, explains how the awards are just one element of its green offering.
“The Green for Business support is a free consultancy programme designed to help small businesses become more sustainable. Through up to two days of expert consultancy, you’ll work with a specialist Green Consultant who will identify practical, impactful changes tailored to your business.
“Whether it’s cutting costs, improving efficiency, or enhancing your reputation, going green can give your business a competitive edge, while also benefiting the environment.
“Adopting more sustainable business practices can help reduce operating costs through more efficient use of energy, water and materials. It can also lower your carbon footprint, enhance your brand image and appeal to customers, while helping your business become more resilient to the impacts of climate change.”
Gráinne Kennedy, Climate Action Coordinator with Waterford City and County Council, said more and more Waterford businesses are engaging in environmentally responsible activities.
“As part of our commitment to addressing climate change, Waterford City and County Council is working to reduce emissions by 51% by 2030.
“Since 2022, businesses across Waterford have been rewarded for their efforts in improving energy efficiency through the Commercial Rates Energy Discount – Business Pledge for a Cleaner, Greener Waterford Scheme. These awards are another opportunity to reward businesses for their climate actions.”
The entry portal is now open and will remain so until October 26th. Businesses can submit their applications here: https://submit.link/5qS
The Glas Award winners will be announced at the Mayor’s Parlour on November 11th.
For further information, visit www.localenterprise.ie/Waterford, contact Local Enterprise Office Waterford on 051 849905 or email info@leo.waterfordcouncil.ie.
