We’re pleased to share the launch of techSPARK’s State of Tech in Bristol and Bath 2025 report. Now in its third edition, the report offers a snapshot of the region’s evolving tech and creative-tech ecosystem, shaped by data, interviews and sector-wide insight.
Download the full report by completing this form
To mark the launch, we hosted an evening reception at St Nicholas Church in Bristol, where we welcomed founders, investors, policymakers and community partners for a conversation about the region’s strengths, challenges and direction of travel.
Bristol and Bath’s tech sector remains one of the most productive in the UK on a per capita basis, with strengths across AI, immersive media, cybersecurity, fintech, climate tech and advanced engineering.
However, this year’s report shows that progress is uneven. While the startup base remains resilient, founders continue to face barriers when it comes to scaling, investment, infrastructure access and talent progression.
The report highlights an ongoing challenge around raising Series A/B capital. Founders spoke about difficulties securing later-stage investment, managing rising operational costs and accessing the right support for international expansion. There is particular demand in high-growth areas like AI, climate tech and applied research, but without clear pathways into growth finance, many businesses feel stuck.
The region is home to nationally significant R&D infrastructure, including Isambard-AI, MyWorld, QTIC and Bristol Robotics Lab. But these facilities are still underused by local businesses. Founders consistently reported low visibility, lack of practical access routes and uncertainty around how to engage with academic and applied research partners.
Additionally, while the sector boasts a strong culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing, there are growing concerns that a lack of experienced entrepreneurs staying in the region could limit high-growth opportunities. Encouraging a cycle of reinvestment—where successful founders mentor and support new startups—will be key to sustaining the ecosystem’s momentum.
The region is home to nationally significant R&D infrastructure, including Isambard-AI, MyWorld, QTIC and Bristol Robotics Lab. But these facilities are still underused by local businesses. Founders consistently reported low visibility, lack of practical access routes and uncertainty around how to engage with academic and applied research partners.
Additionally, while the sector boasts a strong culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing, there are growing concerns that a lack of experienced entrepreneurs staying in the region could limit high-growth opportunities. Encouraging a cycle of reinvestment—where successful founders mentor and support new startups—will be key to sustaining the ecosystem’s momentum.
“There’s a lot to be optimistic about in this ecosystem. The talent, creativity and research base are all here — and the community is strong. But there’s still work to do in connecting the dots and making the region easier to navigate and invest in.”
Richard Spilsbury, techSPARK Chair
Bristol and Bath’s tech sector has always been defined by its spirit of innovation, collaboration, and resilience. As we look ahead to the next chapter, ensuring that investment, policy, and talent strategies align with the region’s ambitions will be critical to maintaining growth and securing our place on the global stage.
Our thanks go to NatWest and Rathbones for supporting this year’s report.
If you’d like to discuss any of the themes raised in the report, or get involved in future roundtables and research, we’d love to hear from you.