Technology Connected has announced it will cease trading on 31 March 2026, bringing to an end 25 years at the heart of Wales’s technology sector.
Formerly known as ESTnet, the organisation has long described itself as the leading voice of the Welsh tech industry. Over a quarter of a century, it has worked to connect industries with emerging technologies, develop talent pipelines, influence strategic stakeholders and champion Welsh innovation on the global stage.
The decision follows confirmation that Industry Wales is to be dissolved, with Technology Connected operating within that group structure.
In a statement issued on 25 February 2026, the organisation confirmed it will begin an orderly wind down of operations.
The full statement reads:
“Dear Colleagues,
The Board of Directors of ESTnet Ltd, trading as Technology Connected, has formally resolved to commence an orderly wind down of the Company’s operations, with the intention that the Company will cease trading on 31 March 2026 and will subsequently be dissolved
.
This decision follows the recent announcement by the Welsh Government confirming the dissolution of Industry Wales. As ESTnet Ltd t/a Technology Connected operates within the Industry Wales group structure, this change has required careful reflection on our future Position.
After thorough consideration of the available options, the Directors have concluded that an orderly wind down represents the most responsible course of action. While this marks the end of the organisation in its current form, it does not diminish the impact, relationships and progress built over the past 25 years.
The Board is committed to ensuring that:• The wind-down process is managed in a structured, transparent and professional manner
• All statutory, legal, financial and contractual obligations are met in full
• Clear and timely communication is maintained with staff, suppliers and stakeholders
• The Company’s legacy and contribution to Wales’s technology community are recognised and respected
Between now and 31 March 2026, operations will continue in an orderly manner while plans for closure are implemented.
On behalf of the Board, we would like to place on record our sincere thanks to everyone who has supported ESTnet Ltd t/a Technology Connected over the past quarter of a century. The organisation’s achievements have been made possible through the dedication of our team, the commitment of our partners and members, and the strength of collaboration across the Sector.
We are immensely proud to have played a central role in shaping and championing Wales’s tech ecosystem. It is important to emphasise that this decision reflects structural changes within the Industry Wales framework and in no way reflects the strength, ambition or future prospects of Wales’ technology sector, which continues to demonstrate innovation, growth and resilience.
Should you have any immediate queries, please contact Avril Lewis at [email protected].
Yours sincerely,
Avril Lewis MBE
Managing Director
Technology Connected”
Over the years, Technology Connected has delivered a number of high profile initiatives that have helped shape the sector.
Wales Technology Awards
The Wales Technology Awards, previously known as the ESTnet Awards, have become one of the industry’s most respected celebrations of excellence. For more than a decade, the awards have recognised the organisations and individuals driving innovation across Wales.
Wales Tech Week
Wales Tech Week, created and delivered by Technology Connected, has grown into an international tech summit showcasing Welsh innovation to the world.
In 2025 alone, the event welcomed more than 4,200 attendees from over 50 countries, underlining the scale and ambition of the Welsh technology sector.
Beyond events, the organisation also played a key role during the pandemic through the Kickstart Scheme, securing fully funded employment opportunities for young people. Its first cohort saw 22 young professionals supported into structured career pathways in technology.
Managing Director Avril Lewis MBE has also served as a strategic advisor to the Cardiff Capital Region Skills Board, helping align regional skills plans with industry demand and future technology priorities.
While the organisation will close at the end of March, the Board has stressed that the decision reflects structural changes within the Industry Wales framework and does not reflect the strength or future of the sector itself.
As Wales’s tech community reflects on 25 years of activity, the legacy of Technology Connected is likely to be measured not just in events and awards, but in the networks, careers and global reputation it helped build.
