Delivering Community Value With The SPARKies
The team agreed: the SPARKies is much more than an awards night. It’s a visibility platform, a growth environment and a rare moment for the community to reflect and celebrate.
Scott mentioned how the event helps showcase the South West’s genuine strengths in areas such as sustainability tech and deep tech.
Mike praised techSPARK’s wider role in economic growth: “It’s crucial for connecting a region that’s going to help power the UK’s innovation future.” And Gabrielle reflected on how the event motivates as well as celebrates: “It gives people a benchmark to aspire to, and a community to learn from.”
“techSPARK and the SPARKies are fundamental to the growth of the region. They foster connections and help drive the Southwest’s role in the UK’s economic future.”
Mike Ahyow, Partner, RWK Goodman
Reflecting On The Awards and Advice For Next Year’s Nominees
To finish off the interview with RWK Goodman, we asked if the team had any advice for next year’s attendees, nominees and shortlisters. Here is what they had to offer;
Mike: “Get in the food queue early! But seriously, talk to people. Everyone’s open to helping, from founders to investors to service providers like us.”
Scott: “Celebrate! Put your laptop away for the evening, switch off and be present. There are people in that room who can help you grow your business, from other founders who have had similar experiences, to advisors like us – catch them all while they’re in a good mood and willing to help!”
Gabrielle: “Lead with passion. Every winner this year was clearly driven by belief in their idea. That authenticity shows, and it gets noticed.”
It’s clear that Scott, Mike and Gabrielle had a great time at the SPARKies. They connected with inspiring founders, shared ideas with fellow ecosystem champions and celebrated the very best of tech in the South West.
Want to connect with the RWK Goodman team? Reach out to Scott, Gabrielle or Mike on LinkedIn to keep the conversation going, or to find out more about their services and support take a look at rwkgoodman.com/tech.

