Entries open for the Social Enterprise Awards 2026

Making a social impact in Northern Ireland? Applications are now open for the Social Enterprise Awards 2026

Northern Ireland Social Enterprise is inviting organisations to enter the Social Enterprise Awards 2026, which celebrate the achievements of social enterprises across the region.

The Awards recognise individuals, teams and organisations that deliver positive outcomes for communities, people, the environment and wellbeing, and offer an opportunity to showcase impact from the past year.

Social enterprise awards categories

There are 17 categories you can enter, including:

• Best New Start-Up
• Community Based Social Enterprise
• Rural Social Enterprise Award
• Credit Union of the Year – (up to £25m)
• Credit Union of the Year – (over £25m)
• Environmental/Circular Economy Social Enterprise of the Year
• Best Use of Social Media
• Consumer Facing or Product Based Social Enterprise
• Social Impact Award
• Young Person of the Year
• Emerging Leader of the Year
• Leader of the Year
• Social Enterprise Building Diversity, Inclusion and Equality Award
• Social Value Partnership
• Outstanding Team Award
• Social Enterprise of the Year – up to £500k
• Social Enterprise of the Year – over £500k

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on Friday 23 October at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast.

Join the How to apply for the 2026 Social Enterprise Awards webinar on Friday 10 June and apply for the Social Enterprise Awards 2026.

First published 1 June 2026