The South West’s biggest tech celebration returns for 2026
Companies progressing technology and innovation across the South West of England are being put on alert as the Tech South West Awards 2026 officially opens for entries.
From trailblazing startups and game‑changing scaleups to inspiring leaders and teams driving global change, the awards shine a spotlight on those redefining what’s possible, tackling real‑world challenges and putting the South West firmly on the innovation map.
Following a standout event at Sandy Park, in Exeter last year, with more than 300 attendees and a packed room of innovators, this year’s awards will feature 21 categories showcasing the full spectrum of the region’s thriving tech sector.
And this year, the ceremony returns to Ashton Gate Stadium, Bristol, on Thursday 26 November.
Dan Pritchard, co-founder of Tech South West, said: "The South West's innovation story keeps getting stronger and the Tech South West Awards are back to help tell it. We're returning to Ashton Gate in Bristol for this year's ceremony, and we're already excited about what this region has to show. Every year the Awards remind me just how much is happening across cleantech, defence tech, quantum, health and so much more. The first step is nominations, so if you’re part of a team doing outstanding work, or know exactly who should be nominated, now's the time to step forward."
Now in its eighth year, the Tech South West Awards continues to celebrate the region’s fastest‑growing sector, recognising innovation and impact from every corner of the South West. Covering the whole region, from Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly through Devon, Somerset and Dorset to Bristol, Bath, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, the Awards showcase the breadth and strength of the South West’s thriving tech ecosystem.
The awards are once again proudly supported by headline sponsor Bishop Fleming, who have backed the event since its inception.
Dan White, Partner at Bishop Fleming, said: “We’re delighted to once again be the headline partner of the Tech South West Awards, reaffirming our commitment to supporting the region’s dynamic and fast‑growing tech sector. The awards play a vital role in recognising the creativity, ambition and technical excellence that continues to emerge from across the South West, and we’re proud to help celebrate the businesses and individuals shaping the future of the industry.
As a South West–based firm, Bishop Fleming has long worked alongside technology businesses at every stage of their growth, and we understand first‑hand the innovation and resilience that defines the sector. By supporting the Tech South West Awards, we’re championing the strength of our regional tech ecosystem and the people driving its success. We look forward to seeing the nominations and celebrating these achievements together in November.”
The 2026 Award Categories include:
AI, Best Place to Work, Best Startup, CleanTech, CreaTech, DeepTech, EdTech, FinTech, Growth, HealthTech, Innovation, Tech Investor of the Year, MarineTech, People’s Choice, Supporting Talent, Supporting the Sector, Sustainability, Tech Company of the Year, Tech for Good, Tech Leadership, THE Tech South West Award and Women in Tech.
The deadline for entries is Friday 3 July. Businesses and individuals can nominate themselves, a colleague, or another company making a difference. Entries are free, and the ceremony will take place later this year.
The 2026 winners demonstrated the South West’s world-class tech capabilities, with standout successes included:
Altilium Clean Technology (Devon) – winner of THE Tech South West Award and CleanTech and Tech for Good, for its world-leading work in sustainable battery recycling, helping decarbonise the EV supply chain and drive the UK’s clean energy transition.
Exacta Technologies (Bristol) - winner of Tech company of the year and the Growth category, for its strong strategic growth, innovative products, and 40% increase in headcount this year alongside a major new facility investment in the South West.
MVV Environment Devonport (Plymouth) - winner of the Sustainability category for its measurable environmental impact and large-scale renewable energy generation.
Techosaurus (Somerset) - winner of EdTech, recognised for making AI accessible to learners and scaling training opportunities across the region.
The awards are supported by Angel Investors Bristol, with category sponsors including: Cazenove, Natwest, RBC Brewin Dolphin and RWK Goodman.
Sponsorship opportunities are now available, offering brands the chance to connect with the region’s leading tech innovators and receive extensive exposure in the run-up to November’s ceremony.
Enter here - https://apply.techsouthwest.co.uk/
Entries close on Friday 3 July
For more information and to enter, visit: https://www.techsouthwest.co.uk/tech-south-west-awards-2026-bristol/
