University of York Announces Winners of Enterprise Awards 2024

The University of York is proud to announce the winners of the prestigious Enterprise Awards 2024, recognising exceptional entrepreneurial talent driving economic growth and social impact in York and North Yorkshire. The awards ceremony, held last night at the historic Merchant Adventurers Hall, celebrated the remarkable achievements and contributions of businesses and individuals to the region's vibrant enterprise ecosystem.

Award Winners:

• Outstanding Business Growth - sponsored by Crombie Wilkinson:
• Lucy Pittaway
• Transformational Leader Award - sponsored by The Company of Merchant Adventurers of the City of York:
• Dan Westgarth, Station Cinema
• Community Changemaker Award - sponsored by LNER:
• Next Door But One
• One to Watch Award - supported by Barclays Eagle Labs:
• School Kitchen
• Inclusive Business Award - sponsored by Bridge Employment Law:
• Next Door But One
• Purpose Driving Profit Award - sponsored by Nestlé:
• Ellers Farm

Celebrating Enterprise and Innovation

The Enterprise Awards highlight the importance of innovation and adaptation in building resilient economies and communities. The winners exemplify growth, social conscience, and leadership, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and sustainability that defines York and North Yorkshire's business community.

Professor Kiran Trehan, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Partnerships and Engagement at the University of York, emphasised: "This year’s awards celebrate the unwavering spirit of entrepreneurialism, exemplary leadership, business growth, and commitment to social responsibility exhibited by businesses and individuals in our City and region. We are delighted to honour these outstanding contributors who are making a positive difference in their communities and industries."

Key Highlights:

• Lucy Pittaway was recognized for their remarkable business growth, demonstrating exceptional innovation and market expansion.
• Dan Westgarth of Station Cinema received the Transformational Leader Award for his visionary leadership and significant contributions to the local community.
• Next Door But One was celebrated for their outstanding community impact and inclusive business practices, receiving both the Community Changemaker Award and the Inclusive Business Award.
• School Kitchen was acknowledged as a rising star in the enterprise ecosystem with the One to Watch Award.
• Ellers Farm was honoured with the Purpose Driving Profit Award for successfully integrating social and environmental values into their business model.

Building on Strong Foundations

York and North Yorkshire boasts a thriving, engaged, and socially-conscious business community. The region's collective efforts in initiatives like the national Good Business Charter, York’s Pride of Place board, and BioYorkshire showcase a commitment to innovation, social issues and net zero goals. With cutting-edge R&D, accelerator programs, and a rich talent pool, the region is a fertile ground for innovation, growth and success.

The University of York is dedicated to promoting enterprise and entrepreneurship as key drivers for economic growth and social impact. Enterprise Works believes in the power of enterprise to be a driver for social change, and fosters a diverse, connected, and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem that extends into the regional community.