Awards for innovative women launched
A new award scheme to recognise Europe's most innovative women was launched in Brussels on 6 February. The awards are based on successful British Female Inventor and Innovator of the Year Awards, which have been running for seven years. The European version has been put together by a group of women politicians, inventors and innovation professionals led by MEP Baroness Sarah Ludford, and in conjunction with the European Union Women Inventors and Innovators Network (EUWIIN). EUWIIN was born out of the Global Women Inventors and Innovators Network, of which Bola Olabisi is CEO. 'Europe can't afford to ignore the lost opportunities for economic and social growth because of the continuing gender gap in traditionally male dominated areas,' said Ms Olabisi. 'EUWIIN will encourage more women to discover training, new perspectives and a range of experiences so that they - and Europe - reap the rewards.' Previous winners of the UK award include: Mandy Haberman, inventor of the Anywayup cup (a valved cup that controls the flow of liquid and prevents the user from spilling their drink); Adrianne Jones for her biodegradable tree shelter and seedling cover; and Deborah Leary, who developed Forensic Anti-Contamination Stepping Plates, allowing police to walk around a crime scene without contaminating evidence. The nominations for the first European awards are now open, and the winners will be chosen in May and June. Awards will be presented in 13 categories, including: lone inventor, lone innovator, exceptionally creative item, exceptionally creative, inventive, or innovative women in business, and posthumous award. The first awards ceremony will take place in Berlin, Germany, from 14 to 16 June.