South West of England Digital Conference

SW of England Digital Conference 2026 (opens in new tab)

The South West of England Digital Conference took place on 9 July at the Firepool Digital Centre for Innovation in Taunton, bringing together SMEs, educators, digital specialists and students for a full day of practical learning and future‑focused digital insight.

Attendees took part in hands‑on workshops across three tracks – Talent and Digital Skills, AI for Business and Digital Solutions – alongside keynote sessions, a Future of Work panel and rapid‑fire case studies in Digital Lab Live.

The day explored the digital skills and tools organisations need to navigate fast‑moving change, with real examples from companies across the region. Conversations centred on AI adoption, workforce development, emerging technologies and the practical steps SMEs can take to unlock value from digital innovation.

The conference also featured a breakfast roundtable with the Women Pivoting to Digital Taskforce and the launch of the new SW Connector platform, connecting employers with emerging talent across the South West.

Three tracks

"This is about turning ambition into action. We want to help businesses across the South West understand how digital transformation can directly benefit their bottom line – whether that's through smarter use of AI, more efficient operations, or building the right team to take them forward. It's practical, focused on outcomes, and built for SMEs who want to get things done."

Dan Pritchard, Co-founder of Tech South West

SW of England Digital Conference 2025: Powering Your Business Growth (opens in new tab)

Transform Today, Thrive Tomorrow: Practical Solutions for SMEs

Brought to you by Tech South West and Associate Partners including Microsoft, Howden, South West Institute of Technology and South West Business Council.

On 18 June 2025, over 150 delegates gathered for the South West of England Digital Conference at Exeter College's Digital and Data Centre, a day packed with practical digital solutions, expert insight and opportunities for SME growth.

The conference brought together founders, digital teams, educators and industry leaders to explore how businesses can unlock the benefits of AI, automation, data and digital leadership. Workshops tackled real-world challenges, from cyber risk and digital hiring to workplace culture and upskilling.

Delegates also explored the Tech Talent Zone, where education providers and industry shared practical ways to meet the region’s growing demand for digital skills.

Whether attendees came to spark new ideas or solve existing problems, the focus was clear, making tech work for businesses in the South West and turning ambition into action.

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Check out what we got up to in 2025

Hear from our community

"We enjoyed being part of the day and having the opportunity to share our expertise on culture and team performance. The workshops were varied and tackled issues facing businesses with some practical tips and things to reflect on. It was really well organised and ran like clockwork."

Jemma Maclean, Insight HRC

"The panel sessions were thought provoking and as always there was a great deal of knowledge in the room making for great conversations throughout the day with inspiring, knowledgeable people!"

Lindsay Lucas, Cosmic

"Tech South West have created a great formula to provide genuine insight and a space to connect for a diverse range of businesses and interests."

Gary Simpson, Simpl.fy

"This was one of the best that I’ve been to for a long time, great content, great speakers and great location."

James Cater, Biondin Advisory