Forest Economic Partnership announces winners of the inaugural innovation iwards
Winners have been revealed in the Forest Economic Partnership's first ever Innovation Awards, and you can see the pictures and read more right here.
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The Forest Economic Partnership (FEP) is delighted to announce the winners of its first-ever Innovation Awards, celebrating the pioneering spirit and ingenuity of businesses across the region.
The awards, sponsored by the Watts of Lydney Group, highlighted the remarkable quality of local enterprise, with 24 businesses submitting entries.
In a thrilling outcome for the ‘Under 100 Employees’ category, the judges awarded two joint winners after both companies received identical scores.
Innocrete 3D, which specialises in innovative 3D concrete printing, and Grazing Management, a leader in sustainable land solutions, were jointly awarded the top prize in this category.
The exceptional standard in this category also led the judges to recognise two ‘Highly Commended’ businesses: Wye Valley Flowers for their sustainable approach to floristry and Cinderhill Farm for their commitment to quality, traditional produce with an innovative twist.
In the ‘Over 100 Employees’ category, the award was presented to Hartpury University and Hartpury College, recognising their significant contributions to innovation within the education and land-based sectors.
The judging panel was thoroughly impressed by the calibre and diversity of the applications. The panel comprised Nicola Bird, founder and CEO of Accxel and chair of the Forest Economic Partnership; Wendy Jackson, director for sustainable economy for Forest of Dean District Council and director of the FEP; Johnathan Lane, Forest of Dean District Councillor and Director of the FEP; Dev Chakraborty, head of the new growth and enterprise team at Gloucestershire County Council; Ian Mean, director of the FEP; and John Thurston, chair of the Watts of Lydney Group and headline sponsor for the awards.
Nicola Bird, chair of the Forest Economic Partnership, said: “We were really impressed by the innovations showcased in the across the entries we received.
“It’s testament to the dynamic and forward-thinking business community we have here in the Forest of Dean.
“From Hartpury’s innovative leadership in the large business category to our joint winners, Innocrete 3D and Grazing Management, we’ve seen fantastic examples of how different sectors can drive progress, and we are thrilled to celebrate their success.
“Congratulations to all our winners and highly commended businesses.”
John Thurston, Chair of Watts of Lydney Group, main sponsor of the awards added, “Watts of Lydney Group has been innovating in the Forest of Dean since its conception.
“As part of the fabric of this community for generations, and we have always championed local enterprise. Sponsoring these awards has been a privilege.
“The quality of the entrants was really stong, and it gives us great confidence in the economic future of the Forest of Dean. We extend our warmest congratulations to all the winners on their well-deserved recognition.”
Read more here: New chair of the Forest Economic Partnership.
About the Forest Economic Partnership (FEP): The Forest Economic Partnership is a volunteer-led organisation dedicated to fostering a strong, sustainable, and diverse economy in the Forest of Dean. By bringing together businesses, local authorities, and community organisations, the FEP works to support economic growth, champion local enterprise, and create opportunities for the region.
This press release was sent to The Raikes Journal by the Forest of Dean Economic Partnership on 12 June 2025.
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