The Prolific North Tech Awards 2025 are judged by an independent panel of senior leaders from some of the most influential tech companies, investment firms, and innovation hubs across the North. Their collective expertise ensures that every entry is assessed fairly, rigorously, and with a deep understanding of the technology landscape.
- Al Alzein – General Manager, Dynamo North East
Al leads Dynamo North East, a leading not-for-profit tech sector membership organisation with over 100 company members. He supports the region’s growth by facilitating connections that lead to innovation and success and is an enthusiastic advocate for the tech sector across the North East. - Anna Heyes – CEO, Active Profile
Anna is founder of the initiative Tech Climbers and CEO at Active Profile, one of the region’s fastest-growing integrated communications agencies. As a Computer Science graduate and supporter of regional tech scale-up communities, Anna has advised many tech scale-ups, investors, and ecosystem support programmes on go-to-market communications strategies over the past 20 years. - Dr. Elizabeth Young – Investment Manager, Par Equity
Dr. Young brings a wealth of experience in identifying and nurturing high-growth tech ventures, ensuring that investments align with both financial and strategic goals. - George Mensah – Principal, Sure Valley Ventures (SVV)
George plays a pivotal role in identifying and supporting early-stage tech companies, focusing on scalable and innovative solutions that drive industry transformation. - Hannah Williams – Ecosystem Innovation and Growth Specialist
Hannah works to foster innovation and growth within the tech ecosystem, supporting initiatives that drive technological advancement and collaboration across the sector.
How Judging Works
Each entry is carefully reviewed by judges with expertise in the relevant category. Submissions are evaluated on innovation, impact, scalability, and overall quality, with detailed scoring to ensure every entry gets the attention it deserves. Once individual assessments are complete, judges come together to discuss the strongest entries and determine the shortlist and winners.
With a combination of tech leaders, investors, and ecosystem experts, this year’s panel brings a breadth of knowledge that reflects the dynamism and innovation driving the Northern tech sector.
See the full judging line-up here
Entries close on the 12th of September for the Prolific North Tech Awards so now os the time to get those entries in! If you have any questions or need any support, reach out to us on [email protected].
