Last night's Tastebuds Collaboration Awards was a real reminder of why I love what I do. To have a room full of businesses, academics and innovators, all brought together by one thing – collaboration – was something truly special.
I'm still smiling this morning (and afternoon).
I felt incredibly proud. Proud of the businesses who were brave enough to open their doors, share their challenges and embrace new ideas. Proud of the researchers turning science into real-world impact. Proud of the students who stepped up and delivered fresh thinking and meaningful results. And proud that Tastebuds continues to create opportunities for these partnerships to flourish.
The emotion in the room was impossible to miss (including Alexander Tosh laughing fit!).
A huge congratulations to all of our winners:
🏆 Innovation Project of the Year – Norwich University of the Arts & BrocStar
🏆 Business-to-Business Collaboration of the Year – KORUTEK ENGINEERING & Rezylix
🏆 Academic-to-Business Collaboration of the Year – BeanTastic Hummus & Quadram Institute
🏆 New Product Development Award – Norfolk Mushroomery & Candi's Cupboard
🏆 Student Collaboration of the Year – Wildly Tasty & Norwich Business School
🏆 Outstanding Collaboration Award – Boudicca Brewing & Humber Doucy Brewing Company
My biggest takeaway? Innovation doesn't happen in isolation. It happens over coffee meetings, shared ideas, difficult conversations, unexpected introductions and partnerships that grow into something much bigger than anyone imagined.
My heart is full, my head hurts, my voice is a little hoarse, and my love for this industry and community grows daily.
Huge thank you to our sponsors (not just for funds, but for the kind words and support you always show us). Norwich Business School Amir M. Sharif Connected Innovation Rebecca Halfhide Creative Sponge Lovewell Blake Chris Solt Alan Brailsford QIB Extra
One sponsor place has been taken for 2027, who will take the next? 👀
