Sustainability

Supported by:

The Finalists in the Sustainability category of the SFA Awards 2026 are:

• Burren Smokehouse
• Dingle Sea Salt
• Hemp Heros
• Hygeia
• Rock Farm Eco Tourism
• Tom Crean Brewery Kenmare

Congratulations to all finalists!

Judging Criteria for this category:
Please make sure you read the criteria carefully for each category as the judging process will follow the criteria set.

The Award for Sustainability recognises a company that demonstrates leadership in building sustainable practices into its own business, being both Environmentally Aware and Environmentally Responsible. The application will need to clearly outline the company’s environmental management system, how it is managed, funded and its impact on energy consumption and/or the environment – for example, across transport, energy, water saving, staff involvement training and/or community support.

Where energy/environmental efficiency projects or installation of new equipment has taken place, businesses will need to demonstrate innovation and measurable results. You will also need to show how sustainability has resulted in an improved competitive advantage and become a differentiator for your company. ( Note that this award is for companies’ own environmental / sustainability activities, not those they may have undertaken for clients).

Entry Requirements:
Award entrants must comply with the following entry criteria:

• All small businesses may enter up to a maximum of 50 employees. (This includes staff employed in the company on a fixed-term contract basis in excess of 12 months, and part-time staff who work in excess of 20 hours per week but excluding temporary agency workers).
• Be in operation at least 2 years in the Republic of Ireland.
• Not be a branch of another business.
• Franchises can enter.
• Businesses/individuals can be nominated by other associated professionals (e.g. professional advisers, training providers, accountants etc.).

2026 Prize Package:

All Finalists

• A comprehensive strategic masterclass weekend sponsored by Skillnet Ireland which will include communications, media and presentation skills training
• An interview/profile in a specially commissioned Irish Independent Awards Supplement
• Free participation in SFA Business Connect Event
• Three complementary tickets to the Gala Awards Ceremony
• A finalist certificate

Category Winners

• Award trophy - presented at a Gala Awards Ceremony
• Free membership of the Small Firms Association for 2026

Overall Winner

• The Overall Winner will be presented with a winner trophy at the RDS for the Gala Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 05 March 2026