Gradam Sheosaimh Uí
Ógartaigh 2026
We invite you to join us in the promotion of the Irish language in Ireland’s Bilingual City.
Why enter the Gradam?
It is not essential to be a fluent Irish speaker to participate in this prestigious award.
National and international reputation
Bilingual Status
Gain Extensive Publicity
Benefits and Prizes
Free of Charge
What we look for…
The category winners will be chosen because of the consistent, successful and effective use of bilingualism in their company which makes them ‘stand out’ in their sector.
The company must show a strong commitment to the Irish language and demonstrate innovative ways and ideas for further use of the Irish language.
The categories are: Retail, Services, Hospitality & Tourism, Online Business and Other Companies
Prizes
The total value of the sponsorship prizes and benefits for the Gradam is more than €43,000, supported by local sponsors.
The Overall Winner will receive:
An Advertising Package to the value of €2,000 from the Galway Advertiser
A business package to the value of €2,000 from their category sponsor
An Advertising Package with TG4
A year’s membership with Galway Chamber* and Gaillimh le Gaeilge
A beautiful piece of sculpture especially designed by the renowned artist Pádraic Reaney for a year
The Category winners will receive:
A business package to the value of €2,000 sponsored by local businesses and institutions. [Listed below]
A replica of Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh especially designed by the renowned artist Pádraic Reaney
Extensive media publicity and acclaim for your business/organisation in the Irish and English language media
A short video of each business with emphasis on the bilingual work done, produced by MOLSCÉAL Gaillimh le Gaeilge.
Special Gradam label to highlight bilingual achievements.
What our previous winners have to say…
“The Irish language is at the core of Irish Socksciety.
When we heard Gaeilge first, we didn’t understand it, but we naturally felt the energy, poetry, warmth and storytelling that it carries. The grá was rooted in our hearts with the first words, and now we use Irish Socksciety and our stocaí as a platform to share our genuine passion for the language, and hopefully bring more and more people with us on that journey. This acknowledgment is an absolute honour, and yet another testament of the Céad Míle Fáilte, vibrancy, inclusivity and respect that Gaillimh represents. We are beyond excited and grateful to be recognised for our work and enthusiasm, and for creating a space to embrace Gaeilge in a fun and contemporary space for all. We showcase it domestically and globally, and will continue to do it one foot at the time for many years to come.”
Joanna Cziezka, Irish Socksciety
Key Dates and other info…
Key Dates
12th of February – Closing Date for nominations
31st of March– Deadline to complete the Gradam adjudication form
16th of April 2025 – Gearrliosta (shortlist) announced
Early May 2026– Judges visit the Gearrliosta
25th of May– Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh 2025 Awards Ceremony in the Galway Bay Hotel.
Judging Panel
To be confirmed
Terms & Conditions
Click here to read the terms and conditions for participating in Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh