Shortlist Announced for UKREiiF’s ‘One Big Idea’ Initiative

UKREiiF and Cartwright, a strategic marketing agency, have unveiled the shortlist for their ‘One Big Idea’ initiative, which aims to spotlight innovative concepts within the built environment sector. Nearly 100 submissions were received, showcasing a range of creative ideas designed to advance the industry.

The initiative is open to professionals at all levels, encouraging property and construction specialists to contribute their insights. The shortlist features three standout ideas from Kuram Gwakyaa, head of sustainability for Home Office and MOJ accounts at Mitie; Sally Grindrod-Smith, director of planning regeneration and communities at West Lindsey District Council; and Matt Drewitt, architect at the Government Property Agency.

The shortlisted proposals focus on critical themes such as carbon reduction, supporting the next generation, and addressing viability gaps in projects. Further details about these ideas will be shared during the Big Idea Breakfast at UKREiiF on Wednesday, 20 May.

Liz Cartwright, managing director at Cartwright and a judge for the shortlist, commented: “Our One Big Idea initiative was created to champion new and purposeful thinking from those in the industry. Across all submissions received there is no doubt that this kind of thinking was showcased in abundance. Our shortlisted ideas demonstrate not only originality but a true potential to move the industry forward. Each one is not a concept for its own sake but is grounded in real challenges and real opportunities. Offering space for these ideas to flourish is exactly what we here at Cartwright, in partnership with UKREiiF, have set out to do.”

The judging panel, which reviewed the submissions and selected the finalists, included James Bywood, marketing director at UKREiiF; Renee Preston, chief executive officer at Gallaway Construction; Shahi Islam, director of affordable housing at Homes England; and Rory Bates, built environment sector lead at SLR Consulting. The criteria for judging focused on creativity, originality, impact, value, and clarity of the ideas presented.

Following the Big Idea Breakfast, Cartwright plans to publish a ‘One Big Idea’ report that will narrate the stories of the winning entrants and include a broader selection of suggestions, along with additional insights gathered during the event.

James Bywood remarked: “UKREiiF has always been a place where ideas on how to grow and better the industry have the space to flourish. One Big Idea is allowing us to take this to the next level and there is no doubt that the results so far have been incredible. All the ideas submitted showcase vital thinking from different levels and experience on how the industry can grow to new heights and it’s safe to say that shortlisting to just three was no easy job. As the countdown to UKREiiF ticks down, seeing the three shortlisted ideas come to life at the One Big Idea breakfast is one of many parts of those three days in Leeds that our team here are looking forward to most – alongside generating those important conversations that will foster even more ideas for what’s next for the industry.”

This initiative marks a new chapter in the partnership, with Cartwright taking on the role of official storytelling partner for UKREiiF 2026 as part of a year-round agreement.

For further information about Cartwright, visit www.cartwrightagency.com, or to register for UKREiiF 2026, go to www.ukreiif.com.