Limerick City and County Council in partnership with the JP McManus Charitable Foundation is encouraging communities to once again go for gold in 2026 as one of Limerick's most successful environmental and community initiatives officially launches for another year.
Mayor of Limerick, John Moran, together with Helen O’Donnell of the JP McManus Charitable Foundation, officially launched Limerick Going for Gold 2026 at Moyross Enterprise Centre, inviting communities across the city and county to take part in the annual competition which promotes biodiversity, nature conservation, circular economy initiatives and sustainable living.
Now firmly established as one of Limerick’s flagship community programmes, Limerick Going for Gold continues to inspire local groups, residents, volunteers and organisations to work together to enhance their communities, improve biodiversity, protect the natural environment and create more sustainable places to live, work and visit.
As every year, significant prizes are on offer, with a top prize of €10,000 and additional awards of €7,000 and €5,000 available across a range of competition categories. Winners will be announced at the prestigious Limerick Going for Gold Gala Awards Ceremony later this year.
In addition to the prize fund of over €70,000, almost €80,000 in Environmental Improvement Grants is being distributed to local communities throughout Limerick. Grants ranging from €200 to €5,000 will support projects focused on biodiversity enhancement, litter management, circular economy initiatives, sustainable planting schemes and environmental improvement works, while also helping to protect and celebrate Limerick’s natural and built heritage.
Launching the competition, Mayor of Limerick John Moran said:
"Limerick Going for Gold is one of the finest examples of community spirit in action. Every year we see residents, volunteers and community groups investing their time, energy and creativity into making their local areas cleaner, greener, more sustainable and more welcoming for everyone. The competition not only enhances the appearance of our communities but also delivers lasting environmental benefits through biodiversity projects, pollinator-friendly initiatives and sustainable practices. I look forward to seeing communities across Limerick showcasing the incredible work taking place in every corner of our city and county."
Príomh Chomhairleoir, Cllr Catherine Slattery commented:
“The pride people take in their local areas is incredible, and this competition gives that energy a real focus and support. It’s not just about improving how places look, but about building stronger, more connected and more sustainable communities right across Limerick. Every year we see groups push themselves further, especially in areas like biodiversity, recycling and climate action, and that’s something we should be really proud of."
Director General, Limerick City and County Council, Dr Pat Daly said:
"Limerick Going for Gold continues to demonstrate what can be achieved when communities are supported to take local action. We are proud to support and celebrate the volunteers and community groups whose dedication makes this initiative such a success year after year."
Speaking on behalf of the JP McManus Charitable Foundation, Helen O’Donnell added:
"The success of Limerick Going for Gold is built on the commitment and dedication of local communities. Year after year, groups continue to raise the standard through innovative projects that support biodiversity, sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Foundation is proud to continue supporting an initiative that empowers communities, strengthens local pride and delivers positive environmental change across Limerick. We look forward to seeing the creativity, ambition and community spirit that will be on display throughout the 2026 competition."
Competition Categories
In 2026, Limerick Going for Gold will distribute over €70,000 in prizes across a range of categories, including:
- Tidy Towns Category
Open to groups who have entered the Tidy Towns 2025 National Competition. - Limerick Bee Friendly in Bloom
Open to all Tidy Towns groups, including those who have not entered the Tidy Towns 2025 competition. - Residential Areas
Open to estates and residential areas across Limerick that applied for the Limerick Going for Gold Environment Improvement Grant in 2025, including residents’ groups and associations in regeneration areas. - Endeavour Award
Awarded to the most improved Limerick entrant in the National Tidy Towns Competition. - Sustainability, Waste Prevention and Community Engagement (formerly Reuse Award)
Presented to a group, community or club recognised for preventing waste or promoting reuse initiatives. - Best New Entrant
Open to newly established community groups. - Community Youth Involvement
A new category recognising groups that encourage and empower young people to contribute innovative ideas and play an active role in shaping and strengthening their communities.
Judging Criteria
Applications for entries have now closed. Limerick Going for Gold 2026 adjudication will take place in August this year.
Judging will place a strong emphasis on biodiversity, wildlife habitats, pollinator-friendly planting, sustainability initiatives, the use of recycled materials, waste prevention and reduction, litter control, circular economy practices, the maintenance of green spaces and the overall presentation and appearance of participating communities.
A radio campaign with public voting will commence on Live 95 in August.
Limerick Going for Gold is a unique partnership between Limerick City and County Council and the JP McManus Charitable Foundation. The initiative is supported by Live 95, the Limerick Leader, Limerick Post, I Love Limerick, Limerick City Centre Tidy Towns, Southern Marketing Design & Media and community organisations throughout Limerick.