Lord Stafford Awards held at Worcester for first time

Jul 22 2008

The region’s biggest innovation awards are heading to Worcester for the first time in its history, it has been revealed.

Now in its 11th year, the Lord Stafford Awards will come to a glittering finale at Worcester Cathedral, with more than 300 high-profile guests set to celebrate ‘innovative’ partnerships between companies and universities.

The decision to move the competition outside of Birmingham reinforces the area’s growing reputation for enterprise and will highlight the increasing role of knowledge in today’s business environment.

Lord Stafford, award patron, was delighted at the choice of venue: “Technology is playing a major role in the evolution of the Worcestershire economy and we are increasingly seeing more companies come to the fore with innovative ideas and products – bringing the awards to the area can only reinforce this.”

He continued: “There are hundreds of business functions held every year and we always strive to make our awards evening that little bit different. In Worcester Cathedral we feel we have found a venue that matches the spirit of the Lord Stafford Awards.”

Funded by Advantage West Midlands, BT, MAS-WM, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber and Coventry University Enterprises, the Lord Stafford Awards has received a record number of entries this year.

The categories open to businesses and universities are impact through innovation, achievement through innovation, entrepreneurial spirit and knowledge transfer champion.

Each winner receives a cash prize of £5,000 and extensive marketing and promotion in both regional newspapers and trade press.

Lord Stafford said: “Last year, Worcestershire was well represented at the awards.”