Manchester’s leading tech innovators revealed – UKTN

Tech Climbers has revealed its latest shortlist of the best performing product-led tech businesses in Greater Manchester that are making an impact.

This week, the tech community gathered at the Cloud 23 cocktail bar in the heart of Manchester’s city centre as journalist Peter Stojanovic unveiled the 11 companies that made the official list and the 10 up-and-coming businesses that were listed as ‘Ones to Watch’.

Businesses were either nominated or self-entered to be assessed by an expert panel of judges, who evaluated the strongest examples of impact, innovation and investment across the Greater Manchester region.

Alongside the businesses who made the list, this year’s Greater Manchester Tech Climbers told the story of the collective pursuit of growth. Three quarters (75%) of companies that entered reported to be actively seeking funding, while 36% had plans of international expansion, noting the US and EMEA as key target regions.

The event was not only a celebration of innovative and growing businesses, but also a chance to reflect on Manchester’s tech landscape. 

During the event’s panel discussions, businesses explored what is needed to advance local startups in line with the ambitions set out in the Greater Manchester Strategy 2025–35. They highlighted how pioneering companies are attracting investment to the region and creating high-quality jobs not only in the city centre but across Greater Manchester’s wider communities.

Two of the climbers – Jyrney and React XR – made the move from last year’s ‘Ones to Watch’ list to this year’s main list following a a year of significant growth, highlighting how Manchester provides the conditions needed to nurture ambitious tech companies. 

The official list featured several newcomers, such as hospitality tech platform Hotal, who was also awarded this year’s Relentless Raiser for demonstrating remarkable business ideas that were on track to secure investment. 

Other key highlights include the Impressive Innovator award that was given to AI-powered background and onboarding platform Deploi and the winner of the Innovating with Impact award, community venue booking platform Vivify Venues, for showcasing cutting-edge innovation. Each business that made the list gains national recognition and joins a network of advisors and investors.

Powered by Tangerine Communications, UKTN is proud to support the campaign as a national partner alongsidetechuk, Hubspot, data city, and innovate . Headline partners include Corpay, Marks & Clerk, Rathbones, CG Professional,