UKRI’s Transforming Foundation Industries Challenge (TFI), delivered by Innovate UK, the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Economic & Social Research Council (ESRC), recognises the contribution of Women Innovators in Foundation Industries (WINFI), with the announcement of a shortlist for the first WINFI Awards.
Founded on International Women in Engineering Day 2022, WINFI was launched as a community of professionals and organisations who advocate and champion for women within the six foundation industries (cement, paper, chemicals, glass, metals and ceramics).
The WINFI Awards 2025 will showcase examples of innovation, vision, passion and determination shown by individuals, businesses and collaborations across the six foundation industries over the last few years.
The Award will be divided into three main categories:
- Rising Star (sponsored by Foundation Industries Ventures, FIVe)
- Net Zero Champion (sponsored by Clean Growth Fund)
- Most Collaborative (sponsored by Foundation Industries Sustainability Consortium, FISC)
Winners will receive a uniquely crafted award made from recycled waste foundation materials, provided by sponsors at Glass Technology Services, glass artist Lulu Harrison and ceramics & glass manufacturer Alusid.
Nominees range from a wide variety of roles including researchers, product developers, scientists and CEOs, representing start-ups, research technology organisations and multinational companies. The innovations they have undertaken cover exciting fields including 3D printing, new materials and chemicals development and circular manufacturing processes. Not only this, but nominees have overseen collaborations which extend from the UK to Europe and beyond, allowing their impact to be felt across the world.
Winners for each category of the WINFI Awards 2025 will be unveiled at a ceremony held in London as part of the wider Materials and Manufacturing Showcase on 19th February 2025. This event will showcase the impact of £1.75 billion of investment in materials and manufacturing, offering exclusive access to groundbreaking innovations and high-growth investment opportunities.