Inspiring Change: Meet the Winners of the 2026 Cambridge Social Innovation Prize

The Cambridge Judge Business School has announced the winners of the 2026 Cambridge Social Innovation Prize, celebrating the remarkable achievements of mid-career social innovators who are making a significant impact across the UK. This annual award recognizes extraordinary founder-CEOs of social enterprises that are dedicated to creating positive social change.

Empowering Communities and Individuals

This year, the prize recipients are recognized for their innovative approaches to urgent social issues, ranging from food insecurity to support for survivors of violence. Each winner has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing the well-being of individuals and communities, showcasing the transformative power of social innovation.

Meet the Winners

• Danielle McKinnon – Founder of Eat, Sleep, Ride, a charity that uses horses and community-based programs to support the personal development, well-being, and leadership skills of young people in disadvantaged communities.
• Nathan Atkinson – Co-founder and CEO of Rethink Food, which collaborates with schools to combat food insecurity while promoting food education and healthier futures for families.
• Lucy Hebberts – Head of GINA, a social enterprise dedicated to providing specialist counseling and advocacy for survivors of sexual violence and abuse.
• Matt Parfitt – Founder and CEO of Grace Enterprises, which creates employment opportunities for individuals facing barriers to work, including homelessness and addiction.

Support and Recognition

The Cambridge Social Innovation Prize not only gives the winners a cash award of £10,000 for personal and professional development but also provides mentorship and resources from a vibrant community of social innovators. This comprehensive support aims to help these leaders scale their impact and further their missions.

A Testament to Impact

The impact of these social entrepreneurs is profound. Nicole Helwig, the executive director of the Cambridge Centre for Social Innovation, accentuated the importance of their work, stating that the winners exemplify the ability of social innovation to address some of society's most pressing challenges. By empowering the next generation and transforming lives through their unique approaches, they are paving the way for a brighter future.

The recognition of these individuals underscores a vital message: even in challenging times, there are dedicated people committed to making the world a better place. Their stories inspire others to pursue careers rooted in social and environmental impact, fostering a culture of innovation and compassion.