Carmel and Martin Naughton have been named Philanthropist of the Year by The Community Foundation for Ireland. The award was made in recognition of the couple’s significant and strategic philanthropic investment in many areas of Irish life.

American company Xilinx was named Corporate Philanthropist of the Year.

Chuck Feeney received the foundation’s Brian Wilson Award to recognise the incredible philanthropic contribution made to Ireland through The Atlantic Philanthropies, which will come to a close in 2016.

Martin Naughton made his fortune with electrical appliances, with Glen Dimplex one of his most notable brands.

Carmel and Martin Naughton were nominated by The Royal Irish Academy. CFI said the couple have been generous and strategic donors for many years,providing enduring support for areas where they are passionate including the arts, education and the promotion of engineering, science and technology.

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The Naughtons have given significant funding to The National Art Gallery; scholarships in STEM subjects through The Naughton Institute; and have made a major contribution to the history of art and architecture in Ireland through their support for The Royal Irish Academy.

According to CFI, while Ireland has a strong tradition of charitable giving, it has had relatively few large scale and strategic philanthropists such as Carmel and Martin Naughton.

The Community Foundation for Ireland manages over 60 donor advised funds and made grants of €5m in 2015.