Celebrate community spirit and innovation in Wicklow!

Wicklow County Council is excited to invite expressions of interest from local community groups who would like to be considered for nomination to the 2026 IPB Pride of Place Competition, delivered in partnership with Co-Operation Ireland.

This much-loved annual all island competition, run in collaboration with local authorities, shines a spotlight on the incredible work happening in communities across Ireland. It celebrates the people who roll up their sleeves, work together, and make their local communities vibrant, welcoming, and inspiring places to live.

Pride of Place recognises and rewards communities who are making a real difference—big or small—to enhance everyday life where they live. Whether it’s improving local spaces, fostering inclusion, protecting biodiversity, or championing creativity, this competition honours the dedication that fuels community pride.

2026 Competition Categories

There are 13 categories this year, offering a place for every type of community initiative:

1.       Population 0 - 300

2.       Population 300 - 1000

3.       Population 1000 - 2000

4.       Population 2000 – 5000

5.       Population over 5000

6.       Creative Communities

7.       Climate Action and Biodiversity

8.       Community Youth Initiative

9.       Inclusive Communities

10.     Community Wellbeing Initiative

11.     Community Tourism Initiative

12.     Age Friendly Communities

13.     Urban Neighbourhoods and Housing Estates

Based on the expressions of interest received, Wicklow County Council will shortlist and nominate groups to represent the county in Pride of Place 2026.

Want to see what successful projects look like?
Visit: https://www.prideofplace.ie/ 

How to Apply

Expression of Interest Application form can be found below. 

Applications can be emailed to prideofplace@wicklowcoco.ie by the deadline: 

4:00pm Friday 24th April 2026

Please note that we are unable to accept applications submitted after the closing date.