Exeter at the forefront of regional innovation as local institutions make award shortlist

The South West’s technology sector will take centre stage in Exeter next month as the city prepares to host the Tech South West Awards 2025, with several Exeter-based organisations, including the University of Exeter, shortlisted for top honours.

The awards, now in their seventh year, celebrate innovation across the region’s science and technology communities, spanning Bath, Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset and Wiltshire. This year saw more than 300 entries across 25 categories, with judging led by a panel of over 30 regional experts at the Firepool Digital Centre in Taunton.

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The University of Exeter Degree Apprenticeships feature prominently in the shortlists, recognised in both the Commitment to Diversity category and the Supporting the Sector award, which celebrates organisations strengthening the region’s innovation ecosystem. Exeter Science Park also appears as a finalist in the same category, underscoring the city’s growing role in fostering technological collaboration and research-led enterprise.

Dan Pritchard, founder of Tech South West, said the quality of entries reflected the strength of the region’s innovation economy. 

“From early-stage start-ups to established scaleups, the shortlists shine a light on the ambition, creativity and impact of the South West tech community,” he said. “It’s inspiring to see such a breadth of innovation, from marine and space technologies to fintech, agritech, digital health and AI.”

Headline partner Bishop Fleming described the awards as a showcase for the region’s “vibrant and innovative tech community”, with firms and educators from Exeter and beyond driving progress through collaboration and creativity.

Among other local nominees are companies connected to Exeter’s fast-growing tech cluster, including those working in AI, sustainability, marine technology, and health innovation.

The winners will be revealed at a ceremony at Sandy Park in Exeter on Wednesday, 19 November, where the region’s top innovators will gather to celebrate their achievements and the overall Tech South West Award will be presented to one standout winner.