Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh 26 has officially been launched, marking another milestone in the celebration of bilingual excellence among businesses and organisations in Galway City. Widely regarded as one of the city’s most prestigious accolades, the Gradam recognises those who actively and creatively use the Irish language in their everyday operations, reinforcing Galway’s identity as Ireland’s Bilingual City.
Organised by Gaillimh le Gaeilge in partnership with The Galway Advertiser and TG4, and supported by Galway Chamber, Gradam 26 invites businesses and organisations across the city to enter for a chance to win prizes and supports valued at over €40,000. In addition to these tangible benefits, the overall winner will earn the coveted title of Galway’s Bilingual Business of the Year, along with the recognition of being named Galway’s “New Tribe” for the year ahead.
The awards were officially launched by the Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, who was joined by the Cathaoirleach of Gaillimh le Gaeilge, Dr John Breslin, and long-standing sponsors of the Gradam. Their continued support reflects both the prestige of the awards and the growing enthusiasm for the Irish language among Galway’s business community. This surge in interest highlights how bilingualism is increasingly seen not only as a cultural asset, but as a dynamic and forward-looking element of doing business in the city.
Entry to Gradam 26 is completely free, making it accessible to businesses of all sizes and sectors. Participants benefit from increased visibility through local and national media coverage, as well as practical supports that can help them further develop their bilingual offering. Previous winners include well-known Galway organisations such as Irish Socksciety, St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, and Lally Tours, all of whom have successfully integrated Irish into their public-facing services and internal operations.
The Gradam is supported by a strong network of media and category sponsors. The Galway Advertiser and TG4 serve as main media sponsors, while individual categories are supported by Galway Bay FM (Retail ), Fáilte Ireland (Tourism ), Computer Troubleshooters (Customer Service ), Platform94 (Digital ), and Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe (Community & Culture ). Additional support comes from Údarás na Gaeltachta, which is sponsoring bespoke miniature Gradam sculptures for each category winner, designed by renowned artist Pádraic Reaney. Galway Chamber is sponsoring the overall Gradam winner.
Businesses and organisations based in Galway City can enter by completing a short online application at www.gleg.ie The closing date for entries is Thursday, 12 February 2026. Applicants may self-nominate or nominate another organisation, and the Gaillimh le Gaeilge team offers guidance and support throughout the process, helping participants take meaningful steps towards becoming truly bilingual businesses.
Now in its 24th year, Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh continues to honour the legacy of Seosamh Ó hÓgartaigh, a founding member of Gaillimh le Gaeilge, while celebrating the vibrant, living use of Irish at the heart of Galway’s commercial and cultural life.
