Prolific North’s popular Tech Start-ups to Watch list and event is back for 2026 – and we’re on the hunt for the next generation of promising tech businesses across the North of England and Scotland.
Backed by Bruntwood SciTech, this year marks the fifth edition of the initiative, which continues to identify and celebrate some of the most exciting emerging tech companies across the regions that deserve a place on everyone’s radar.
Over the years, we’ve followed the progress of businesses featured on our previous lists, which first launched in 2021, from Manchester-based proptech Housr, which secured $10m to fuel its international expansion, to Sheffield’s Tickets for Good, which has expanded into Germany.
READ MORE: Check out last year’s list here
Now, we’re looking for the next wave of start-ups with the potential to make their mark.
The selected companies will be revealed exclusively at a special roundtable event in Manchester on 9 December 2026, bringing together the businesses behind this year’s list to share their journeys so far, the challenges of scaling, and their ambitions for the future.
Think your company should make the list? It’s entirely free to enter – submit your nomination here before 2 November 2026.
Who can apply?
We’re looking for tech companies based in the North of England or Scotland that were incorporated on or after 1 January 2021.
The final list will be compiled through extensive research carried out by Prolific North’s editorial team, alongside input from trusted, independent observers of the Northern tech sector.
While Prolific North’s editorial team will be conducting its own research, submitting your company via this form by 2nd November is the best way to ensure you’re considered for the final list.
What are we looking for?
Submissions will be assessed against the following criteria:
- Traction and product-market fit: We’re looking for proof that your company is genuinely solving a problem for a defined group of customers; this can include user feedback, pilot programmes, customer retention rates, ARR, number of active users, etc.
- Team & leadership: Tell us about the people behind the idea. We’ll be looking at the background and experience of your founding team, your current team size, and your growth plans.
- Scalability and business model: Show us your vision for the future. This includes your plan to generate revenue, your growth strategy for the next 1-3 years, and your path to profitability or plans to access future funding.
Whether you’re building something new, gaining traction with customers or preparing for your next stage of growth, we’d love to hear your story.
Don’t forget: the deadline to submit your information for consideration is November 2nd. Good luck!
