Presented to an individual, business or organisation taking action to futureproof the forestry and wood sector through impactful research, innovative technology development, or skills-building initiatives.
This award is sponsored by Forestry and Land Scotland & Forestry Commission.
The Newton Tree Nursery Redevelopment represents a strategically important investment in the long-term resilience of the UK forestry and timber sector. By transforming outdated nursery infrastructure into a modern, high-capacity, biosecure growing facility, Forestry & Land Scotland has contributed to a more stable future forest resource that underpins woodland creation, restocking, and long-term wood supply for processors and markets.
Launched in 2025 at the UHI Scottish School of Forestry (SSF), this innovative, targeted programme tackles acute industry skills shortages. Fully funded and industry-backed, the training was delivered by SSF experts and targeted at young people and career changers. Funding was provided by Aviva Investors (supported by Par Equity) and equipment supplied by Scottish Woodlands - a powerful blend of industry, investors, and training providers.
The Institute of Chartered Foresters’ Springpod virtual work-experience programme is an accessible, interactive, and professionally designed digital experience, opening the sector to thousands of young people who may never have considered forestry as a viable, modern, and meaningful career path. Developed in collaboration with the Forestry Commission, this initiative directly strengthens the future workforce pipeline.
Rhizocore has recently secured £4.5 million in investment to scale its innovative approach to forestry and woodland restoration. The company specialises in the production of locally adapted mycorrhizal fungi to support woodland regeneration and tree planting success. Their flagship product, the RhizoPellet™ has delivered unprecedented results across numerous sites. This latest investment will allow the company to increase supply to meet future demand.
