The Construction Employers Federation (CEF) has unveiled the NI Construction Awards 2026, a refreshed iteration of its long‑running industry celebration, backed by headline sponsor Payapps.

Previously known as the CEF Excellence Awards, the programme has been a fixture since 1999. Now in its 27th year, it returns with a new name, new partners and a larger venue to better reflect the scale and ambition of today’s built environment.

For the first time, CEF will run the awards in partnership with the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) and the Mineral Products Association Northern Ireland (MPANI), uniting contractors, engineers and materials suppliers on one platform to broaden participation and strengthen sector connections.

-- Advertisement --

The 2026 gala will move to ICC Belfast on Thursday 1 October, enabling a bigger audience and an enhanced experience as interest across the sector continues to grow.

Entries are open now until the end of May. Categories will recognise excellence in innovation, project delivery, sustainability and workforce development, alongside three new honours: Design Excellence, Mineral Product Supplier of the Year, and Excellence in Asset Management.

Speaking on the launch, CEF Chief Executive Mark Spence said: "These changes represent more than a rebrand, they signal a new era of collaboration and ambition for our industry. By bringing together construction, engineering, and materials under one platform, we are creating a stronger, more representative awards programme. The NI Construction Awards 2026 will reflect that ambition, with a larger and more diverse audience, broader industry participation, and a premier setting at ICC Belfast."

The evening will be hosted by architect and television presenter George Clarke alongside presenter Claire McCollum.