The Wales STEM Awards 2026 have officially launched, with entries now open for organisations and individuals driving innovation, research, education and skills development across Wales.
Now entering their sixth year, the awards are embarking on an exciting new chapter. The awards ceremony will take place on 1 October 2026 at Techniquest, Wales’ iconic science discovery centre, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
The move marks a significant evolution for the programme, with a refreshed format designed to better reflect the collaborative and innovative nature of Wales’ STEM sector.
Rather than a traditional black-tie dinner, guests will be welcomed into one of the UK’s leading science discovery centres, with opportunities to explore interactive exhibits, enjoy science-themed entertainment, hear from industry speakers and connect with fellow STEM professionals. The evening will also feature street food and a theatre-style awards presentation focused on the finalists and winners.
Entries are now open across categories including Innovation in STEM, Sustainability, STEM Company of the Year, STEM Woman of the Year and Rising Star of the Year, continuing the awards’ focus on recognising excellence across innovation, education, research, sustainability and industry impact.
New for 2026 are two additional categories. STEM Collaboration of the Year will celebrate partnerships between industry, academia and the third sector delivering meaningful impact across Wales. The Shaping the Future Award will recognise organisations and individuals pioneering emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, and developing solutions that will help transform the sector for years to come.
The deadline for entries is 7 August 2026.
Cardiff Metropolitan University returns as headline sponsor, alongside Wynne Jones IP, sponsor of the Innovation in STEM Award, and CSA Catapult, sponsor of Rising Star of the Year.
Category sponsorship opportunities remain available for organisations looking to align themselves with one of Wales’ leading celebrations of STEM achievement and connect with the businesses, educators, researchers and innovators shaping the future of Wales.
Martin McHugh, Chair of Judges, said:
“The Wales STEM Awards continues to showcase the incredible talent, innovation and ambition that exists across Wales. Every year we uncover inspiring stories of organisations and individuals making a real difference through STEM.
“The introduction of the new categories reflects the growing importance of collaboration and emerging technologies in solving challenges, driving economic growth and creating
opportunities for future generations. I would encourage anyone involved in STEM to consider entering.”
Liz Brookes, co-founder of the Wales STEM Awards, said:
“When we launched the awards six years ago, our aim was to celebrate the people and organisations making a difference through STEM. That mission remains exactly the same today, but the sector has evolved and so have the awards.
“Hosting the awards at Techniquest during its 40th anniversary year feels like the perfect fit. The new format reflects the energy, creativity and collaborative nature of the STEM community while creating more opportunities for people to connect and share ideas.
“We can’t wait to welcome the STEM community to this exciting new chapter for the awards.”
Last year’s winners reflected the breadth of Wales’ STEM ecosystem, from start-ups and global businesses to educators, researchers and STEM ambassadors. Winners included DVLA, Gavin Griffiths Group, Laser Wire Solutions, Nellie Technologies and Science Made Simple.
The Wales STEM Awards are jointly organised by Grapevine Event Management and communications agency jamjar.
