Winners Announced for the Business & Finance ESG Awards 2026

The Business & Finance ESG Awards, held in association with headline partner Grant Thornton, returned to the Mansion House, Dublin, on 16 April 2026, bringing together leading organisations and policymakers to celebrate excellence in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance across Ireland.

Now in its fourth year, the awards continue to recognise the organisations and individuals driving meaningful progress in sustainability, social impact and responsible governance. This year’s winners reflect the growing maturity of ESG across Irish business, with organisations demonstrating measurable impact, innovation and long-term commitment.

The Grand Prix Award, the highest accolade of the awards, was awarded to Dalata Hotel Group (Dublin 18), recognising its outstanding ESG performance across multiple areas. In addition to securing the Grand Prix, Dalata Hotel Group was also recognised with the ESG Team Award, highlighting a deeply embedded, organisation-wide approach to sustainability, operational efficiency and stakeholder engagement.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of the ESG Leader Award to Marie Donnelly, in recognition of her exceptional contribution to advancing sustainability policy and driving Europe’s energy transition. A long-time advocate for climate action, Marie has played a central role in shaping European energy policy and continues to influence the global sustainability agenda through her advisory and governance roles.

Commenting on the awards, Janice Daly, Partner and Sustainability lead  from Grant Thornton said: “Supporting the Business & Finance ESG Awards reflects our belief that embedding sustainability into business strategy plays an important role in advancing responsible business leadership. This year’s winners have demonstrated how a considered and well designed approach to sustainability can deliver meaningful impact over the long term. In a period marked by ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty, their leadership shows the value of maintaining a clear, consistent focus on responsible business practices.”

Clare Kilmartin, COO, Business & Finance, said: “The 2026 ESG Awards winners demonstrate the depth of commitment, innovation and leadership that now defines ESG across Irish business. What is particularly encouraging is the shift from ambition to action, with organisations delivering measurable impact across climate, community and governance. The Grand Prix winner, Dalata Hotel Group, exemplifies how embedding ESG at every level of an organisation can drive both business success and positive societal change.”

The awards were adjudicated by an independent panel of expert judges, with entries reflecting the increasing importance of ESG in shaping resilient, future-focused organisations. From climate action and biodiversity to inclusion and governance, this year’s winners highlight the critical role of business in addressing global challenges.

The 2026 ceremony brought together senior leaders from across business, government and the sustainability community, reinforcing Ireland’s position as a leader in ESG innovation and practice.

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