Leeds has solidified its position as the UK’s leading tech hub outside London, with new data revealing 853 tech companies are now based in the city. Released ahead of the 11th annual Leeds Digital Festival, figures from The Data City show Leeds hosting more tech firms than Manchester, Edinburgh, or Birmingham.
The data highlights that the local sector is growing at an estimated 8.3% per year, outpacing the 8.1% national average. Additionally, 13% of Leeds tech businesses are classified as high-growth with annual growth rates exceeding 20%, bringing the sector’s total contribution to £1.67 billion in gross value added.
Running from 21st September to 2nd October 2026, the open-platform technology festival features 221 events. The 2026 schedule covers artificial intelligence, fintech, cybersecurity, data ethics, and green tech, with sessions hosted by brands including PizzaExpress, Yorkshire Tea, and the Financial Conduct Authority.
This year marks the first full festival under Director Deb Hetherington, who succeeded founder Stuart Clarke MBE following his transition to festival chair.
“Over the past decade, Leeds Digital Festival has established an extraordinary platform, and today Leeds stands as a genuine powerhouse for tech innovation,” said Deb Hetherington, Festival Director. “This 11th edition is designed to showcase the massive economic impact our regional sector creates.”
Headline sponsored by CGI, the festival is supported by regional partners including Skipton Group, SCC, Leeds City Council, Nexus, ALT Legal, Accenture, and the FCA.
“As the technology ecosystem in Leeds continues to expand, our investment in regional tech capability has never been more important,” said Jenny Wood, Group CIO at Skipton Group. “Skipton Group is proud to support an event that directly stimulates local economic stability and digital advancement.”
