Northern Tech Summit
About this Event
The Northern Tech Summit is happening in Sheffield on 21–22 October 2026, bringing together founders, investors, policymakers and ecosystem leaders from across the North of England.
Hosted at the world-famous Crucible Theatre, the summit will to explore how regional collaboration can accelerate innovation, investment and growth. This year’s programme will focus on strengthening connections between Northern ecosystems, sharing data-driven insights, and highlighting opportunities for the North to compete on a global stage.
Across two days, expect lively discussions on key challenges and opportunities facing the tech sector, a startup showcase and networking opportunities, and sessions shaped by regional priorities and insight.
The summit brings together a diverse audience of startups, scaleups, investors, public sector leaders and ecosystem specialists, creating space for meaningful collaboration and practical action. Hosted by TECH SY, the ecosystem development programme for South Yorkshire on behalf of SYMCA.
Agenda
Day one (Wed 21st) will be a fast-paced event at the Crucible theatre 10am - 3pm, with a focus on sectors and addressing challenges and opportunities for better tech ecosystem collaboration across the North.
There will also be a relaxed Startup Showcase event at Trafalgar Warehouse on day one from 3pm, with tickets sold separately. Head over to see local tech talent and enjoy networking drinks.
Day two (Thu 22nd) 9am-3pm at the Crucible will tackle the key talking points that can connect ecosystems across the North - both on the ground and politically - to drive positive change and growth.
Sheffield Innovation Spine is the official fringe partner of the Northern Tech Summit 2026, with fringe events to be announced. The Spine is an energised urban innovation district spanning 190 acres across Sheffield city centre.
Day 1 Agenda
🕑: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Opening sessions TBA
🕑: 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM
What's Working in Northern Ecosystems?
Info: On Day One (21 Oct) we'll be bringing together ecosystem leaders from across the North for a discussion on What's Working in Northern Ecosystems? With Katie Gallagher, Deb Hetherington, Aoife Morrin, and Matt Snowden.
🕑: 12:15 PM - 01:30 PM
Lunch & Networking
🕑: 01:30 PM - 02:15 PM
Afternoon session TBA
🕑: 02:15 PM - 03:00 PM
Keynote: Tom Adeyoola
Info: Tom Adeyoola, Executive Chair of Innovate UK, will share insights from his own entrepreneurial journey, alongside his perspective on the opportunities for founders, innovators and tech ecosystems across the North.
Day 2 Agenda
🕑: 09:15 AM - 10:00 AM
Keynote & Dealroom Report Launch - Yoram Wijngaarde
Info: Yoram will be taking us through the latest intelligence on South Yorkshire in a new regional tech report by Dealroom, delving into the sectors, strengths, and spinouts, and what we do next with the data.
🕑: 10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Sessions TBA
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 6.00 to GBP 14.00
