The awards celebrate business-academic people and partnerships behind ground-breaking innovations. The finalists were chosen by a specially selected panel of judges who were looking for collaborations that show innovation, impact (societal or economic), and transformation, along with recognising the people contributing to business-academic partnerships.

The Bettii Pod Ltd, and West College Scotland collaborated on the innovative design and development of Bettii, a menstrual cup washer and sanitiser which can be installed in away-from-home cubicles.

On being selected as a finalist for the ‘Innovation of the Year’, Sara Rae, Assistant Principal of Enterprise and Skills at West College Scotland, said "We are honoured to be named as finalists in the Scottish Knowledge Exchange Awards 2024 for our collaboration with The Bettii Pod Ltd. Working together, we wanted to make a positive impact on menstrual health and hygiene, while promoting eco-friendly practices and accessibility. Being named a finalist for this prestigious award is recognition of the hard work of our partnership and the ingenuity of our solution, benefitting women and society."

The winners will be announced at The Royal Conservatoire of Scotland in Glasgow on 14 March.