Nominations now open for Fiontraí Óg na Bliana 2026
Glór na nGael has opened nominations for Fiontraí Óg na Bliana 2026, an award that recognises young people who are bringing energy, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to the world of business through the Irish language. As part of GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann, the award highlights the growing role of Irish as a living, practical language in enterprise and innovation.
GRADAIM Gnó na hÉireann was established to encourage, recognise and applaud businesses and entrepreneurs for their efforts to use and promote Irish in commercial life in Ireland. Over recent years, the scheme has earned a strong reputation for giving public and practical recognition to businesses that place the Irish language at the centre of their signage, branding and customer service. Since its foundation, 455 businesses have received recognition through the scheme, highlighting both its growth and its impact nationwide.
As part of this wider initiative, Fiontraí Óg na Bliana shines a spotlight on young people who are demonstrating creativity, drive and entrepreneurial ability through the medium of Irish. Two awards will be presented in 2026: one in Rannóg 1 for young people aged 12 to 18, and one in Rannóg 2 for those aged 18 to 25, namely those who are over school age but under 26 in June 2026.
The award is intended for young people who show entrepreneurial flair and an innovative approach in their work, while also promoting a positive image of the Irish language and providing services to customers or clients through Irish. Entries may include a small business, a creative project, a digital service or an original new idea, but the essential point is that Irish is at the heart of the work.
Nominations will be assessed on the basis of a recommendation from a school or local community group. Nominators are asked to submit a report clearly outlining how the nominee demonstrates the relevant qualities. Following this, the scheme’s adjudicators will meet shortlisted candidates for a short interview.
The two winners will each receive a trophy, an iPad and three tickets to the 2026 awards ceremony, in addition to the title “Fiontraí Óg na Bliana de chuid GRADAIM”. The award offers an important national platform for young people who are opening up new possibilities for Irish in business and in the wider community.
Glór na nGael is encouraging schools, community groups and members of the public to nominate talented young people for this special award. Further information is available, and nominations can be submitted, at www.glornangael.ie/gradaim/fiontrai-og or by email to gno@glornangael.ie. The closing date for nominations is June 2026.
If there is a young person in your area doing fresh, creative and ambitious work through Irish, now is the time to recognise that achievement and bring it to wider public attention. The future of Irish-language entrepreneurship is already being shaped by the younger generation, and that work deserves to be celebrated.