Leeds is gearing up for a landmark moment in its tech calendar as the city’s digital festival returns this September, marking its 10th anniversary.
The 2025 Leeds Digital Festival will feature over 230 events, attracting global attention to the city’s digital scene.
This year will also mark the final festival under the directorship of BusinessCloud Northern Leader Stuart Clarke MBE, who has been involved since its inception.
He will move to a non-executive role as chair, with Deb Hetherington stepping into the position of festival director.
Launched to champion Leeds as a hub for innovation and collaboration, the festival has grown to become the UK’s largest open platform tech event and one of the longest-running outside London Tech Week.
Over the last 10 years, it has showcased more than 2,000 events organised by over 800 companies.
This year’s festival will run from 22nd September to 3rd October and celebrates all the tech achievements within the Leeds City Region, which includes Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees and Wakefield.
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It will reflect the widespread growth of AI in the region, with a wide variety of events addressing the practical application of AI across industries.
The programme will feature events covering AI in marketing, SEO, financial services and healthcare among others, alongside sessions on emerging technologies, skills and entrepreneurship.
The complete 2025 programme will be announced on 26th August, with confirmed venues including Nexus at the University of Leeds, Platform, Avenue HQ and Department at Leeds Dock.
“When we first launched Leeds Digital Festival, the ambition was to shine a light on the incredible talent, creativity, and innovation across the city’s digital sector,” said Clarke. “Ten years on, I’m proud to say we’ve done that and more.
“The festival has become a catalyst for collaboration, investment, and skills development, not just for Leeds but for the wider North of England.
“As I step back after this year, I am confident that the festival’s legacy will continue to inspire tech leaders and ensure that Leeds remains a driving force in the UK’s digital economy. It has been an honour to be part of this journey.”
The 2025 festival will be sponsored by organisations such as PEXA, CGI, Skipton Group, Accenture, Lloyds Banking Group, Genio, Nexus, Leeds City Council and all three of the city’s universities, as well as a wide network of associate partners.
Jenny Wood, group chief investment officer of Skipton Group, added: “Leeds Digital Festival reflects the innovation and collaboration that make our region thrive.
“At Skipton, we help people build better futures, from home ownership to financial wellbeing, and we’re proud to support this milestone tenth year in championing our vibrant digital community.
“By connecting ideas, talent and technology, we can make a real difference for the people and communities we serve.”