Leeds Digital Festival Awards 2026 shortlist revealed
14th September, 2026
The shortlist for this year's Leeds Digital Festival Awards has been announced, celebrating the individuals, start-ups, scale-ups and initiatives driving Leeds' tech sector forward.
Ward Hadaway is proud to co-organise the awards, in partnership with byProduct, which showcase the very best of the city’s talent and innovation. This year’s shortlist reflects the breadth and depth of the region’s digital economy, spanning everyone from ambitious early-stage founders to established businesses and the individuals championing skills and inclusion across Leeds.
Eleven categories are up for grabs this year, including Entrepreneur of the Year, Start-up of the Year, Growth Company of the Year, Tech4Good, Best Tech Place to Work, and Leader of the Year, alongside awards recognising rising talent, innovation, equality and diversity, and outstanding teams.
The full shortlist can be viewed on the Leeds Digital Festival Awards website.
Bill Goodwin, partner at Ward Hadaway and one of the hosts of the Leeds Digital Festival Awards, said: “Congratulations to every business and individual who has made this year’s shortlist. The calibre of entries gets stronger every year, and it’s a genuine reflection of just how much talent and ambition there is in Leeds. Making the shortlist alone is a real achievement, and I know how much hard work and dedication sits behind each of these nominations.
“We’re looking forward to celebrating with everyone on the shortlist at the awards on 1st October, and to marking another fantastic year for the city.”
The Leeds Digital Festival Awards take place during the Leeds Digital Festival, and recognise the people and organisations helping to cement Leeds’ reputation as one of the UK’s leading tech hubs. The ceremony will take place on 1 October 2026, bringing together the region’s business community to celebrate this year’s winners.
For the full shortlist, category details, and information on how to attend, visit the Leeds Digital Festival Awards website.
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