Sixteen businesses and organisations from across the city have been announced as finalists for Gaillimh le Gaeilge's prestigious bilingual business award, highlighting the continued growth and visibility of the Irish language in Galway’s commercial and community sectors.
Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh 2026, celebrates excellence in the use of Irish in everyday operations and is delivered in partnership with the Galway Advertiser, TG4, and Galway Chamber.
Now in its twenty fourth year, this year’s shortlist reflects an impressive diversity of sectors, ranging from tourism and hospitality to digital services and healthcare. Among the finalists are businesses offering food and beverage experiences, alongside a company producing defibrillators complete with bilingual signage and instructional guides, illustrating the practical and accessible use of Irish in everyday settings.
The adjudication process began earlier this week when the moltóirí (judges ) convened to assess 22 nominations, ultimately selecting 16 finalists for the gearrliosta (shortlist ) following what was described as a particularly strong standard of entries.
Gearóidín Hynes, Project Manager with Gaillimh le Gaeilge, said, “We were delighted with the response to Gradam 2026. There is real pride in the commitment to seirbhís trí Ghaeilge shown by all the shortlisted businesses, a key part of building a truly bilingual Galway and supporting the city’s ambition to achieve Baile Seirbhíse Gaeltachta status.”
Speaking on behalf of the judging panel, Éanna Ó hÓgartaigh praised the overall quality of applications and the visible efforts being made across Galway to promote and normalise the Irish language in business environments.
He said, "All of the applications were very strong again this year and it was great to see all the work being done by them across the city to promote the Irish language. Congratulations to all of them!"
The Retail Experience category shortlist includes Kinvara Skincare and Just Art It, while the Tourism category features Daróg Wine Bar, Galway Food Tours, and Micil Distillery.
In the Customer Service category, McSwiggan’s Steak and Seafood Restaurant, Plámás, and Soundtrack & Podcast have been recognised, each demonstrating strong integration of Irish in customer interactions.
The Digital category includes DUINE, Irish Citylink, Smart Medical, The Little Siopa, and Thrive with Marian, reflecting the increasing importance of Irish language visibility in digital branding and communication.
Meanwhile, the Community and Culture category highlights Club Seoltóireachta Húicéirí na Gaillimhe, CREW Digital, and Tribes Press, showcasing organisations that contribute to cultural life while promoting Irish in meaningful ways.
An independent panel of judges will now continue the adjudication process, with visits scheduled to each shortlisted business before category winners and the overall recipient are selected.
The judging panel includes Éanna Ó hÓgartaigh, Margaret Jenkins of the Wild Atlantic Way team, and Seán Ó Maoilchiaráin of Galway Bay FM, bringing a broad range of expertise to the selection process.
Winners will be announced at a special ceremony on Monday, May 25, to be held in the Lettermore Suite at the Galway Bay Hotel in Salthill, where the Minister for the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary, will present the awards.
Organisers have also acknowledged the continued support of sponsors, including media, tourism, business, and education partners, whose combined contribution exceeds €43,000 and remains vital to the success of the initiative.
Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh is named in honour of Seosamh Ó hÓgartaigh, a founding member of Gaillimh le Gaeilge, and continues to recognise those who actively promote Irish as a living language within Galway’s vibrant business community.
