Celebrating Innovation: AwakenHub Members Skinakin, Numerasee, and Taylor Yates Win National Award

Celebrating Innovation: Awaken Hub Members Shine in National Awards

We're delighted to share the exciting news of three outstanding members from our AwakenHub community who have been honoured for their groundbreaking innovations at the prestigious Innovate UK awards.

Skinakin: Revolutionising Eczema Relief

Led by Claire Brannigan, Skinakin, based in County Antrim, has been recognised for its pioneering work in designing a unique range of eczema relief suits for children. These suits are more than just clothing; they're a lifeline for families grappling with the challenges of eczema. By improving sleep quality, reducing itch, and preventing skin damage caused by uncontrollable scratching, Skinakin is making a tangible difference. The award from Innovate UK will propel Skinakin's mission forward, supporting the development of their therapeutic clothing range and a new technology platform to manage this prevalent condition affecting 20% of children in the UK alone. Claire Brannigan says, ‘I am really grateful to win this National Innovate UK award, and also for the encouragement and advice I have received locally so far, especially from Awaken Hub.  Women are underrepresented in innovation and business, particularly here in Northern Ireland.  Being able to tap into such a strong network of female founders and witness their journeys and successes has been essential.  Being part of this community has built confidence in my own venture and increased my aspirations for future growth.’

Support like this is much needed as Innovate UK estimates that, to achieve the UK’s full economic potential, 400,000 more innovators need to be supported, from entrepreneurs to engineers. Research shows that female entrepreneurs could add £250 billion to the UK economy with equal access to funding and proper support, according to the Business and Trade Secretary and Minister for Women and Equalities, Kemi Badenoch. 

Numerasee: Transforming Math Education

Numerasee, led by Katrina Bradley, Founder and Director of Numerasee , has been hailed as a 'Game Changer' in the innovation stakes, securing a prestigious award from Innovate UK along with a business support package, mentoring, and £15,000 in funding. Their vision? To unlock every child's math potential through a dynamic blend of proven past, present, and future teaching approaches. With a mission to make home the key to success in math education, Numerasee is poised to revolutionise how children learn and engage with numbers.

Numerasee shared their excitement: "I can’t wait to get started, in bringing the vision of the project to life, and share my journey with you. Immensely proud to be one of the 7 female entrepreneurs from Ireland, recognised and endorsed for our innovation and potential, receiving investment of a quarter of a million collectively."

Taylor Yates: Powering the Future with Renewable Energy

Founders Karen Yates and Ellen Yates, Taylor Yates have also been celebrating their award from Innovate UK. Taylor Yates is a British luxury brand, founded with a Beautiful Purpose: authentic, socially conscious and sustainably focused.

These awards not only recognise the incredible talent and innovation within our community but also highlight the vital role of support networks like AwakenHub in nurturing and empowering entrepreneurs to drive positive change. Join us in congratulating Skinakin, Numerasee, and Taylor Yates on their well-deserved success!