Awards Information

Following the success of last years inaugural IED awards to celebrate the 40th anniversary, the board have decided to bring them back for a second year! Another host of awards, with categories covering collaboration, innovation, excellence, impact and outstanding contribution. It promises to be an insightful, inspirational and uplifting occasion.

Recognising achievers in the public and private sector through 9 award categories:
 
Leader of the Year - Sponsored by WECD
Economic development professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and management in their role, and who motivate and inspire their team to achieve success through effective leadership.
 
Team of the Year - Sponsored by Copper Consultancy
Exceptional economic development teams who have gone above and beyond in ensuring the smooth running and effective delivery of economic development functions in their organisations.
 
Rising Star of the Year - Sponsored by AtkinsRéalis
Younger economic development team members aged 30 or under (as of 1st June 2024) who have demonstrated excellence, commitment and gone above and beyond in their early career.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year
Individuals who have strived to actively promote, celebrate and raise awareness of EDI, improving under-represented involvement in economic development in their organisation or externally.

Social Value Champion of the Year - Sponsored by Social Value Engine
Individuals who have championed and made a significant contribution to social value creation, developing best practice in their field and making positive impacts in their communities. 

Most Innovative Project of the Year  - Sponsored by Growth Maturity Index
Innovative economic development projects which have pushed the boundaries beyond traditional approaches and delivered additional beneficial outcomes as a result of the innovation.

Collaborative Initiative of the Year
Outstanding cross-sector economic development collaboration between two or more partners drawn from local authorities, private sector, third sector, business and academia.

Outstanding Impact - Sponsored by Key Cities
For projects delivered and concluded in the last five years, which demonstrate benchmarked evidence against other similar initiatives. Impacts could include environmental, social, business support (from start-up to growth and scale), rural development and regeneration.
 
Outstanding Contribution to Economic Development
Individuals who have made a sustained outstanding contribution to any field of economic development over a minimum of 20 years.

To sponsor an award contact Victoria Armstrong