Cornwall Council Wins National Award for Good Growth Programme

Cornwall Council has picked up a national award for its work on the Good Growth Programme, which has been named the Most Innovative Project of the Year at the Institute of Economic Development Annual Awards 2025.

The awards were held at The Lowry Hotel in Manchester on 25th November following the Institute’s annual conference, Good Growth: Driving the UK economy with investment in our regions and communities.

A Record Year for Entries

Almost 60 submissions were received across seven categories this year, the highest number to date. Shortlisted nominations were reviewed by an expert judging panel in September.

The Most Innovative Project of the Year award celebrates economic development work that goes beyond traditional delivery and achieves additional positive outcomes as a direct result of the new approach.

What Makes the Programme Different

The £186 million Good Growth Programme supports local economic growth, job creation and stronger communities across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and managed by Cornwall Council.

Unlike typical economic programmes, funding decisions are based not only on economic impact but also on a set of Good Growth Principles, which focus on fair pay, inclusion and environmental sustainability. Funding recipients are expected to consider wider social and environmental effects such as paying the Real Living Wage and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

According to iED Director Bev Hurley CBE, who hosted the awards, “This submission demonstrates an outstanding and forward-thinking approach to public funding. Our judges were particularly impressed by the council’s innovative decision to embed social, environmental, and inclusive principles directly into funding agreements – an approach that not only exceeds UKSPF requirements but sets a new benchmark for local economic development. Cornwall Council’s Good Growth Principles provide a systematic and transformative model, showing how fairness, sustainability, and inclusion can be meaningfully integrated into every project.

“By devising a bespoke framework that challenges the norms of centrally devolved funding, the programme delivers significant added value far beyond central government expectations, especially in its environmental and social value outcomes. This is a really standout example of policy innovation in practice, with clear evidence of intentional additionality and a coherent commitment to delivering ‘Good Growth’ throughout.”

Cornwall Council Responds

Cllr Leigh Frost, Leader of Cornwall Council, said: “This is fantastic recognition for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly on the national stage and I am delighted that the Good Growth Programme has been acknowledged in this way.

“By making sure our principles of fairness, sustainability, and inclusion are at the heart of every funded project, Cornwall Council is redefining what economic development looks like. This innovative approach is delivering real benefits for local people, businesses, and the environment, and is positioning Cornwall as a real leader in progressive economic policy.

“The fact this year’s whole iED conference has been on the subject of Good Growth is a real testament to the sustainable, inclusive approach to economic growth that we have been pioneering here in Cornwall.”

Praise from the Institute

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.”

📷Bev Hurley MBE, Cornwall Council team, and iED Director Greg Ward who presented the award