Aquafin set out to make its innovation process smoother and to embed innovation more deeply within its culture. Although innovation had long been a strategic priority supported by leadership and the CEO, the process itself had become complex and difficult to navigate.

Together, we worked to simplify it, with the goal to build a transparent and inclusive approach that would encourage participation from everyone in the organisation and make innovation part of everyday work.

Our collaboration began with co-creation sessions to optimise and visualise the innovation funnel. The improved process was designed to be transparent, intuitive and easy to follow.

To make it more dynamic, we introduced the concept of innovation waves. Every six months, Aquafin launches a new strategic topic, supported by a series of specific challenges that invite creative solutions. These waves are shared internally across multiple channels to inspire employees to submit their ideas and take part in shaping the future of the company.

The first wave, centred around “The construction site of the future,” immediately sparked engagement and enthusiasm across teams. It became the foundation for a more structured and collaborative way of innovating.

To give every employee the tools and confidence to innovate, we created a comprehensive training programme. It began with a pilot session for a select group of participants and quickly evolved into a company-wide initiative. One of the key components was the “Learning to Pitch” course, which helped participants communicate their ideas clearly and convincingly.

The highlight of this journey was a pitch event that invited employees to present their ideas to the organisation. Those whose ideas were selected for further exploration or validation received additional coaching and guidance to develop their concepts. To support them along the way, we created a digital playbook filled with practical tools to help turn ideas into action.

To keep the spirit of innovation alive, Aquafin organised its first Impact Day. It was a day of inspiration, connection and celebration. Colleagues from across the organisation, especially the 'Impact Makers' came together to share ideas, explore new perspectives and celebrate the creativity that drives Aquafin forward.

Through interactive sessions and inspiring showcases, participants discovered how small ideas can grow into meaningful projects. Examples included recovering valuable resources such as phosphorus and reusing sewer heat for sustainable energy. Impact Day encouraged everyone to look beyond the familiar and think about how they could create tangible impact in their daily work.

Impact Day was more than just a celebration. It became a launchpad for the next wave of ideas, reinforcing the sense of community among innovators and setting the stage for future collaboration.

Over the past two years, the Impact Makers initiative has achieved remarkable results:

• 3 major innovation challenges launched
• 61% growth in users on the Yambla platform, now reaching 970 active participants
• 23 ideas pitched across the organisation
• 63 ideas selected for exploration, validation or implementation
• 23 employees trained as innovators and ambassadors of change

These results show how a well-structured and engaging innovation process can turn creative potential into tangible progress.