PROJECTS AWARDS
Project Success Categories
Digital Transformation in Rail
- Celebrating projects that incorporate cutting-edge technology, digital platforms, or automation to enhance operations, customer experience, and efficiency in the rail sector.
- Example Projects: Smart ticketing and payment systems, Real-time train tracking apps, Implementation of digital signalling and network control systems
Sponsored by:
Excellence in Rail Freight Development
- Recognizing projects that enhance the capacity, efficiency, and sustainability of rail freight services.
- Example Projects: Expansion of freight terminals, Development of intermodal freight hubs, Upgrades to rail freight infrastructure
Outstanding Rail Project
- Honouring the design, construction, or refurbishment of significant rail projects including bridges and infrastructure that enhance safety, connectivity, and the aesthetics of the rail network.
- Example Projects: Major rail construction projects, Refurbishments, Strengthening and safety upgrades
Track Innovation or Expansion Project of the Year
- Honouring projects that expand, upgrade, or innovate track systems, enhancing capacity, safety, and speed across the network.
- Example Projects: Construction of new rail tracks, Replacement of old tracks with more efficient materials, Installation of innovative track technology to improve speed and safety
Best Rolling Stock Innovation
- Recognizing projects focused on the design, manufacture, or upgrade of rolling stock, improving performance, passenger experience, and energy efficiency.
- Example Projects: Development of hybrid or fully electric trains, Upgrading of rolling stock to meet sustainability goals, Innovation in passenger comfort and train design
Excellence in Light Rail Development
- Celebrating projects that advance light rail systems, offering an efficient, sustainable, and reliable alternative to other forms of urban transport.
- Example Projects: Development of new tram and light rail systems, Expansion of urban light rail services, Integration of light rail into existing urban transport networks
Outstanding Metro System Development
- Recognizing metro system projects that improve urban mobility, with a focus on capacity, frequency, and state-of-the-art infrastructure.
- Example Projects: Construction of new metro lines, Extension of existing metro networks, Modernisation of metro stations and facilities
Best Station Revamp or Redevelopment Project
- Honoring projects that transform and modernize train stations, providing improved passenger facilities, accessibility, and aesthetic appeal.
- Example Projects: Major station renovations, Enhancing station accessibility for people with disabilities, Expansion of passenger services and amenities at stations.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Sponsorship is available for the Rail link LOOKOUT Awards 2026 at headline event level and across individual award categories.
Taking place in Cork on 5 November 2026, the awards form part of the wider Rail Link industry calendar and provide a formal setting to recognise achievement across the rail sector.
Sponsorship offers brand visibility before, during and after the event, including inclusion in official event communications, presence at the Gala Dinner, and representation within post-event coverage and recorded highlights.
For details on sponsorship packages and availability, please request the sponsorship pack here .
