Sinead Rhodes and Iona Beange are Scottish Knowledge Exchange 2026 finalists in four categories
Congratulations to our Institute for Neuroscience and Cardiovascular Research colleagues Sinead Rhodes and Iona Beange, co-founders of social enterprise EPIC Think Learn, who are shortlisted in four categories of the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards. EPIC Think Learn provides child-centred, research-based resources for parents, caregivers and teachers of autistic children and those who have ADHD, dyspraxia or were born prematurely.
Edinburgh spinout EPIC Think Learn dominates the shortlist of the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards 2026, reaching the finals in four categories of the awards, which celebrate academic and industry collaborations.
Co-founder of EPIC Professor Sinead Rhodes is a finalist for Knowledge Exchange Champion and co-founder Iona Beange is a finalist in the Knowledge Exchange Hero category.
Their social enterprise, which spun out from the University of Edinburgh in 2024, provides child-centred, research-based resources for parents, caregivers and teachers of autistic children and those who have ADHD, dyspraxia or were born prematurely.
Also a finalist in the ‘Making a Social Difference’ and ‘Research and Innovation in Digital Health’ categories, EPIC recently announced Scottish Government funding for 1000 places on its platform, reflecting its role in supporting those with children on long NHS waiting lists.
Dr Andrea Taylor, CEO of Edinburgh Innovations, said:
“It’s fantastic to see our spinouts and industry collaborations recognised in the SKEA nominations. EPIC, along with other University spinouts SeaWarm and the Aquallite partnership, represent impact across our three key mission areas: shaping the future of health and care, tackling the climate and environmental crisis and harnessing data, digital and AI for public good. We wish them all luck for the finals on March 19.”
Now in its 11th year, the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards, organised by Interface, recognise and reward innovative collaborations that deliver economic, environmental and social benefits for Scotland.
Andrea Taylor, CEO of Edinburgh Innovations, said:
“What stood out this year was the strength of collaboration across sectors. We’re seeing businesses, public bodies and third sector organisations working with colleges, research institutions and universities in ways that are delivering real impact for Scotland, from tackling net zero challenges to improving health and well-being.That’s exactly what these awards are here to recognise.”
The awards ceremony will take place at the Macrobert Arts Centre, University of Stirling, on 19 March.
