Stirling-based sustainable housebuilder Hoose Ltd has won the 2026 HEAT competition. The result was announced on 18 September during Forth Valley Business Week.
Hoose beat 32 other entrants. Judges at the Dragons’ Den-style final were impressed by its plans for growth and its focus on sustainable design, local manufacturing and skills development.
About the competition
HEAT is delivered by Ceteris, with Central FM as media partner. It gives aspiring and established entrepreneurs across the Forth Valley a chance to refine their business ideas, build their pitching skills and access support to help them grow.
After an initial selection process, 20 businesses reached the semi-finals. Ten went on to pitch live to a panel of expert judges. Hoose Ltd took first place, Alloa-based Element Wellness came second, and Anne Andrew Nutrition finished third.
The top three share a prize package worth more than £15,000. It was donated by Central FM, STEP Scotland, Arm in Arm Accounting, Forth Valley College, Art is an Option, the University of Stirling Management School, Ceteris, Innovate360 Business Growth and Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce.
The judges’ verdict
The judging panel was:
- Zak Stark, Forth Valley College
- Lynn Harris, Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce
- Neil Mackinnon, Arm in Arm Accounting
- Dr Naja Mohd Yusof, University of Stirling Management School
They praised the quality of the entries and the strength of entrepreneurial talent emerging across Falkirk, Stirling and Clackmannanshire.
Judges highlighted Hoose’s use of locally sourced Scottish materials and its potential to strengthen supply chains, create jobs and develop the future workforce. They said the business could have a significant economic and social impact while reshaping how homes are built and lived in across Scotland.
The runners-up
Element Wellness was founded by former Royal Marine Brandon Vasse. It impressed judges with its investment in a new contrast therapy wellness destination in Alloa, and with a business model capable of attracting a wide range of members. Judges saw potential for the concept to be replicated at future locations.
Anne Andrew Nutrition was recognised for combining healthcare expertise with an innovative approach to nutrition and wellness services. Judges highlighted its potential to improve healthcare and wellbeing provision in local communities and to build a strong platform for growth.
Reaction
Mandy Campbell, Ceteris Business Adviser and organiser of the HEAT competition, said: “The calibre of businesses that entered this year’s competition was exceptional. Narrowing over 30 entrants down to a final three was incredibly challenging for our judges because of the creativity, passion and commercial ambition on display. Hoose, Element Wellness and Anne Andrew Nutrition each demonstrated not only strong business models but a clear vision for growth and positive impact within their communities. We are delighted to support them on the next stage of their journey and would like to thank all of our prize donors and Central FM for helping make the competition such a success.”
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Susi Sinclair, Director of Communications at Hoose Ltd, said: “Winning the HEAT is an incredible achievement for our team. We only launched our business in March of this year and the competition challenged us to refine our proposition and communicate our vision clearly. We’re passionate about delivering low-energy, regenerative housing solutions that provide healthy indoor environments, support Scottish manufacturing and deliver lasting benefits for local communities.”
She added: “The support and opportunities that come with the incredible HEAT prize package will help us accelerate our plans and take the next steps in growing the business.”
