A NEW awards scheme has been launched to recognise and reward innovative businesses across the Forest of Dean.
The Forest Economic Partnership has announced its inaugural Innovation Awards, backed by headline sponsor Watts of Lydney, as a way of celebrating the ingenuity and creativity driving the local economy.
Applications open on Monday, March 31, and close on Friday, May 31, with the winners to be revealed at the partnership’s stakeholder event on Wednesday, June 11, from 5:30PM to 7:30PM.
The awards will feature two categories: one for businesses with up to 100 employees and one for those with more than 100 staff. Each winner will receive a £1,000 cash prize and public recognition for their achievements.
John Thurston, Chairman of Watts of Lydney Group, said the company was proud to support the new initiative: "We are delighted to be the headline sponsor of the Forest Economic Partnership’s inaugural Innovation Awards, especially as my grandfather founded our business on his innovations, from diesel engines to automatic boilers.
Supporting forward-thinking businesses is close to our hearts, and this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the incredible ideas coming out of the Forest."
The awards are open to businesses across all sectors and are intended to shine a spotlight on those helping to drive change, boost economic growth and create opportunities across the district.
Cllr Johnathan Lane, vice-chair of the partnership, said: "The Forest of Dean has a proud legacy of innovation, and we want to celebrate those who are carrying that tradition into the future. These awards are not just about recognising great ideas – they’re about championing the people and businesses that are helping shape a stronger, more resilient local economy."
The partnership hopes the Innovation Awards will become an annual event, helping to build momentum for a thriving, diverse and future-focused business environment in the Forest.