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The Institute of Economic Development (iED) has revealed the winners of its Annual Awards 2025 at a celebratory ceremony in Manchester.
More than 150 delegates gathered in the Grand Ballroom at The Lowry Hotel last night following the sold-out iED Annual Conference, Good Growth: Driving the UK economy with investment in our regions and communities. The Awards Dinner recognised outstanding individuals, teams and organisations across the full spectrum of economic development.
This year saw a record-breaking number of entries, with almost 60 submissions received for seven award categories, and shortlisted nominations were assessed by an expert judging panel in September. The glittering ceremony, hosted once again by iED Director and former Chair Bev Hurley CBE, honoured achievements across both the public and private sectors.
iED Award Winners 2025
Leader of the Year
Team of the Year
Rising Star of the Year
Social Value Initiative of the Year
Sponsored by The Growth Company
Most Innovative Project of the Year
Collaborative Initiative of the Year
Sponsored by Recurve Solutions
Outstanding Impact
Sponsored by Pegasus Group
The evening concluded with the presentation of the Outstanding Contribution to Economic Development award, bestowed posthumously on the late Sir Howard Bernstein.
Paying tribute, iED Chair Tom Stannard described Sir Howard as “a remarkable leader in economic development and regeneration”. As Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, Sir Howard played a transformative role in reshaping the city and driving the regeneration that underpins its modern success. He later served as Patron of the iED from 2017 to 2020.
Sir Howard’s son, Jonathan and daughter, Natalie, accepted the award.
iED Executive Director Nigel Wilcock said: “When we first created these awards during the Institute’s 40th anniversary celebrations, our ambition was clear: to recognise excellence – individuals, teams and organisations making a real difference in economic development across the UK. Every year since, the quality, innovation and commitment displayed has been extraordinary, and this year is no exception.
“Shortlisting the finalists was no easy task for our judges. My congratulations go to all those who were shortlisted, to each of our winners, and my sincere thanks to everyone who submitted entries. Their work showcases the diversity, creativity and impact of economic development in action – precisely what these awards exist to celebrate. It was wonderful to welcome so many familiar faces, along with new colleagues, to share in this special evening.”
-ENDS-
Contact: Phil Smith, Institute of Economic Development PR consultant, on 01778 218180 / 07866 436159 / phil@philsmithcommunications.co.uk.
NOTES TO EDITORS
The Institute of Economic Development (iED) is the UK’s leading independent professional body representing economic development and regeneration practitioners. Established over 40 years ago, the iED’s key objective is to represent the interests of economic development practitioners and ensure their views are widely expressed and noted. The iED is committed to demonstrating the value of economic development work for local and regional communities; the pursuit of best practice in economic development and the attainment of the highest standards of professional conduct and competence.
