Double Win for Tees Valley SMEs in Social Impact Innovation Challenge

Believe Solutions and The Write One have been named joint winners of the Tees Valley Combined Authority (TVCA) Social Impact Innovation Challenge – an initiative aimed at driving social impact through procurement.

The Challenge, led by Edge Innovation Ltd and Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority and Tees Valley Business Board, is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. It sought SMEs with forward-thinking solutions that enhance social value in procurement processes, empower SMEs to participate, and drive measurable community benefits.

Originally intended to have just one winner, the challenge saw such impressive proposals from both Believe Solutions, based in Middlesbrough, and The Write One, based in Darlington, that judges decided to award two grants, one to each solution provider.

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: “It’s essential we support innovation and creativity across Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool as we continue to grow our economy and deliver well-paid, skilled jobs. This challenge will provide vital support for small and medium sizes business across our region while also delivering a positive impact in our local communities.”

Tony Underwood, Co-founder and Chief Care Enforcer at Believe Solutions, said:

“Believe Solutions exists to bridge the gap between business success and social good. By embedding high-performance social value into procurement, we are helping shape a future where companies not only meet their ESG commitments but actively transform the places they operate in. We are thrilled to be working on the Tees Valley Innovation Challenge alongside The Write One – demonstrating the beauty of collaboration in driving inclusive growth. Together, we can create stronger, more sustainable outcomes for communities across the Tees Valley.”

Aimee Philipson, Director at The Write One, said:

“With the upcoming changes introduced by the Procurement Act, the need for businesses to integrate social impact into their operations in a meaningful way has never been more crucial. Many businesses are already generating amazing social impact but aren’t receiving the recognition they deserve. Others are striving to meet social value requirements but lack confidence, whilst many simply don’t know where to start. This innovation challenge is a powerful opportunity to change that – combining the expertise of both companies to help businesses and communities thrive together. I can’t wait to get started.”

The winners, alongside TVCA, will showcase their solutions at the ‘Unlocking New Opportunities through Social Value’ event on Friday, 28th March at Riverside Stadium, Middlesbrough, where attendees will gain insights into upcoming TVCA contract opportunities and learn how to enhance their competitiveness in preparation. Book your free place here.