Thursday, 11 September 2025
Cork Chamber of Commerce made history by winning first place in the “Best Collaboration of Chambers, Business and Government” category at the World Chambers Congress in Melbourne. The award recognised Cork’s innovative Local Green Deals model, developed with Cork City Council to drive sustainable, competitive growth through cross-sector partnerships.
Cork Chamber of Commerce has made history as the first Irish business group to win an award at the prestigious World Chambers Congress, held in Melbourne. The Chamber took first place in the Best Collaboration of Chambers, Business and Government category at the 14th edition of the event.
Hosted by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) and the World Chambers Federation, the World Chambers Congress is the only global awards programme of its kind, bringing together over 1,000 business and civic leaders from more than 100 countries.
Cork’s award-winning project, titled “Facilitating Sustainable & Competitive Growth through Local Green Deals,” was developed in partnership with Cork City Council. The project has already received EU-level recognition for its innovative approach to sustainable economic and urban development.
The Local Green Deal model brings together business, government, and civic stakeholders in formally signed agreements that include:
Measurable sustainability targets
Defined timelines
Shared accountability across sectors
So far, this approach has mobilised tens of millions of euros in green investments, involving partners from banking, academia, small enterprises, and more.
While sustainability is often driven by national or international mandates, Local Green Deals (LGDs) represent a ground-up, place-based approach to climate action. Inspired by the EU Green Deal but tailored to local realities, LGDs empower regions like Cork to:
Align economic competitiveness with environmental responsibility
Create binding, cross-sector agreements with measurable outcomes
Mobilise private and public investment into sustainable infrastructure
The success of Cork’s Local Green Deals model proves that cities don’t have to wait for top-down solutions, they can lead from the front.
The people who worked towards the pitch reflect on their success:
“This global recognition is a testament to the strength of collaboration in our region and the power of partnership with Cork City Council and our members. As SDG Champions, we are proud to have created a model that merges climate action with economic competitiveness.”
“This award is a reflection of what is possible when purpose meets partnership. Our model is not just Cork’s success, it’s a replicable framework for any city, anywhere. It proves that chambers are not only advocates of businesses, but can also be architects of sustainable and economic prosperity.”
Cork Chamber CEO Conor Healy highlighted the significance of the win not just for Cork, but for Ireland’s international reputation:
“Being the first Irish chamber to win an award in the history of the World Chambers Competition marks a historic milestone and reinforces Ireland’s growing reputation as a modern, progressive and sustainable place to do business.”
He added that this achievement brings pride not only to the Chamber, but also to the entire business community and Cork City Council, all working together toward a competitive and resilient future.
Historically viewed as advocates for business interests, chambers of commerce are increasingly playing transformational roles in advancing sustainability. Cork Chamber’s achievement signals a shift in what modern chambers can be:
Connectors between business, government, and civil society
Innovators piloting new policy frameworks like LGDs
Champions of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
This redefinition is essential in an era where businesses must be agile, accountable, and socially conscious.
The award represents more than recognition, it reflects Cork’s ability to deliver innovative, scalable models of sustainable growth, with the power to influence global best practices.
First-ever win for an Irish chamber at the World Chambers Congress
Validates the Local Green Deals as a replicable policy tool for other cities
Demonstrates the effectiveness of cross-sector collaboration in meeting climate and economic goals
This milestone not only positions Cork as a leader in climate-aligned economic development but also offers a blueprint for other regions looking to align sustainability with competitiveness. By leveraging strong local partnerships, Cork Chamber has proven that small regions can achieve big things, even on the world stage.
Businesses, local authorities, and chambers around the world can look to Cork’s success for inspiration. The Local Green Deals model proves that with measurable targets and genuine collaboration, it is possible to create lasting impact that benefits both the economy and the environment.
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