26 March 2026

Wool is one of the world’s most versatile and sustainable natural fibres.

Rooted in British heritage, it continues to evolve through innovation, research and design.

The Innovation in Wool Awards, supported by leading industry organisations, champion new ideas that strengthen the wool sector, from farm to fibre, manufacturing to end use.

These awards recognise projects that not only inspire, but deliver real impact for the future of wool.

If you are developing an idea that advances the use of wool and supports the future of British fibre, we encourage you to apply.

Submit your entry and help shape the next chapter of wool.

Innovation In Wool Awards

Eligibility

Entries are open to applicants worldwide.

All submissions must demonstrate:

  • The use of British wool fibre

  • A commitment to UK-based manufacturing

  • Clear value to British wool farming

  • Scalable potential, including projected wool volume in year one and future growth

Further development and commercialisation of the innovation must take place within the United Kingdom.

All entries will be subject to due diligence to ensure compliance with intellectual property, copyright and patent regulations.

Assessment Criteria

Entries will be assessed and shortlisted by a panel comprising representatives from:

The Woolmen’s Company, The Company of the Merchants of the Staple of England, Campaign for Wool and Chaired by Dame Mary Archer

Submissions will be evaluated against three principal criteria:

Relevance to the wool industry and sheep

Including innovations that enhance animal health, wool quality, or introduce new applications for wool.

Engagement with the textile industry

Demonstrating a connection to UK manufacturing and the broader global wool sector.

Pathway to commercialisation

Clear identification of the steps required to bring the innovation to market, including scalability within the UK.

Key Dates

  • Entry deadline: June 2026

  • Shortlisting: Ahead of September 2026

  • Final interviews: 16 September 2026, London

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend interviews, with full details provided in advance.

The decision of the judging panel is final.

Previous Winners

Recent winners have demonstrated how innovation can unlock new opportunities for wool—across material development, product design and agricultural advancement.

Their work highlights wool’s continued relevance as a natural, renewable fibre with global potential.

Explore the 2025 winners:

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