Welcome to our weekly South West Tech News roundup, where you can get all the headlines from the past week in one place.
What has our busy tech and digital community been up to this week? From award wins and innovative breakthroughs to unmissable events and capital raised, take a moment to reflect on the hive of daily activity taking place in our region.
If you have a story to share, wizz it over to will@techspark.co – I look forward to hearing from you!
We The Curious Launches £150K STEM Access Programme for Bristol Pupils
In an exciting boost for future tech talent, We The Curious has announced a three-year schools programme to ignite a love for STEM among Bristol’s young minds.
Backed by £149,101 from the John James Bristol Foundation, the initiative will launch in September 2025 and aims to support 6,600 Year 3 pupils across BS1–BS16 postcodes, with a strong focus on schools with high free school meal eligibility.
Exacta Technologies Named New Bristol City Sleeve Sponsor
Bristol-based Exacta Technologies are now Bristol City’s official sleeve sponsor for the 2025/26 season.
The server specialists will feature on the sleeves of all first team kits including men’s, women’s, goalkeepers and third kits. It’s part of a multi-year deal that strengthens their connection with the club.
After a debut appearance during this season’s FA Cup ties against West Ham and Nottingham Forest, the partnership is now officially locked in.
Deeptech Duo Join SETsquared Bristol After Startup Competition Win
Two deeptech startups spun out of the University of Bristol are joining the SETsquared Bristol Propel programme after winning this year’s New Enterprise Competition.
Run by the University’s Basecamp Enterprise Team, the competition awards £35,000 annually to emerging ventures from students, staff and alumni.
Fidelis AI is developing synthetic data tools to fast-track autonomous systems, while EarTide is working on audio-based tech innovation. Both now join one of the UK’s most respected incubator communities.
Cyber Con Returns This October as Part of BTF+
The South West’s biggest cyber gathering is back. Cyber Con is returning this October and will be a core part of BTF+, the festival of tech, culture and creativity.
Expect a packed day of workshops, panel debates and 20+ industry-leading speakers, plus a showcase of the region’s most exciting cyber startups.
From deep dives to career connections, it’s designed to support and celebrate the full spectrum of the cyber ecosystem.
The techSPARK Mash Ups Are Back! Introducing Bristol and Bath AI x Byte Sized Cyber
Join us for an exciting mashup event combining the best of our AI MeetUp and Byte Sized Cyber series! This unique gathering is designed for Start-Ups, Scale-Ups, SMEs, and tech enthusiasts eager to explore the intersection of AI and cybersecurity.
Expect expert talks and panel insights on leveraging AI for business growth while keeping your systems secure. Get your questions answered, meet likeminded people and enjoy a drink and a slice of pizza while you’re at it.
