Network Ireland Mayo launch Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026
NETWORK Ireland Mayo has announced that applications are now open for the prestigious Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2026.
This annual event celebrates the achievements, innovation and leadership of women in business and women in their careers, across Mayo and beyond, encouraging members to step into the spotlight and be recognised for their outstanding work.
The awards offer participants a unique opportunity to showcase their progress, affirm their dedication and inspire others within the Network Ireland community.
Mayo Branch president Orla Bakeberg has called on members to embrace their accomplishments: “This is your moment to stop questioning whether you are ready and start recognising just how far you have come. Your work matters. You do not need to wait for permission or have it all figured out. You simply need to take the next step.”
To capture the spirit and excitement of the awards, members are invited to view last year’s highlights via the awards page on the Network Ireland website.
The inspiring 2025 Awards video demonstrates the energy, camaraderie and buzz surrounding the event - serving as a spark for nominations and participation.
The 2026 awards feature a diverse range of categories:
Established Businesswoman
Emerging Businesswoman
Solo Businesswoman
Early-Career Employee
Advanced-Career Employee
STEM - Creative Professional
Networker of the Year (open to all members, including those entering other categories)
Members unsure of the most suitable category or with any queries are encouraged to contact the 2026 awards committee: Cora Mulroy (086 408 3345) – Established Businesswoman and STEM categories; Dee Ruddy (vice-president) (086 218 2837) - Solo Businesswoman; Lorraine Burnell (089 236 5176) - Creative Professional, Emerging Businesswoman and Career Employee categories.
All members are encouraged to apply for Networker of the Year, recognising the power of daily connections and collaboration within Network Ireland.
Finalists will benefit from significant brand awareness for their businesses through social media promotion, press coverage in The Connaught Telegraph and announcements on Midwest Radio.
The highlight of the awards season will be the Mayo awards gala night, scheduled for Friday, June 19, at The Erris Coast Hotel in Geesala. Accommodation details and exclusive rates will be circulated to members soon.
Orla Bakeberg, Mayo branch president for 2026, emphasised this year’s theme: Be Your Change.
Encouraging all members to acknowledge their achievements and take the courageous step to enter, she said: “Entering the awards is not just about recognition; it’s about celebrating the work you do and inspiring other women to follow your lead.”
Network Ireland Mayo invites all its members to step forward, be seen and be celebrated.
The application process itself is a testament to personal growth and reflection and every participant is applauded for their commitment.
For more information, to view award highlights, or to submit your application, visit the Network Ireland website or contact the awards committee directly.