Open to B2B and B2B2C founders across all tech sectors, including agritech, edtech, medtech, AI, health, and beauty tech, the competition offers two tracks: pre-seed/seed-stage and pre-Series A to Series A and beyond. Applications are now open and will close on 2 March 2025.

A new chapter for Rising Stars

The UK tech sector is worth a staggering $1.1T, with 171 unicorns and a thriving ecosystem spanning all corners of the nation. Rising Stars 2025 aims to supercharge this potential, bringing together early-stage innovators from underserved regions and enabling them to scale through investment, mentorship, and networking.

With the merger of OneToWin, the programme has expanded its reach and prize pool. Regional heats will culminate in a Grand Finale at London Tech Week (9-13 June 2025), where the top 10 finalists will pitch their startups live to investors, media, and tech leaders for a share of the £3M prize pot.

What’s on offer?

  • £2M in Regional Prizes: Winners of the early-stage track regional finals can claim the Haatch Regional Investment Prize of £335K.
  • £1M Grand Finale Prize: Late-stage track finalists will compete for the ultimate investment prize at London Tech Week.
  • Mentorship and Networking: Finalists will receive personalised mentoring to refine their business pitches and gain access to the Founders Forum Group network, connecting with top global founders, CEOs, and investors.

A legacy of success

Last year’s Rising Stars winners exemplify the programme’s impact. Reading-based Novai, a medtech startup combating blindness with groundbreaking DARC technology, took first place. Belfast’s Vikela, a defence tech company revolutionising personal protection, and Cambridge’s Lambda Agri, a climate-tech innovator boosting greenhouse yields, rounded out the top three.

"The UK has a wealth of untapped potential in tech. Rising Stars 2025 brings new energy, investment, and resources to founders across all regions, empowering them to scale and thrive. By merging with OneToWin and expanding our partner network, this competition is set to be a game-changer for the UK’s innovation economy." Carolyn Dawson, CEO of Founders Forum Group

The power of collaboration

Key partners include Rigby Group, Haatch, Wealth Club, and other supporters like HSBC Innovation Banking, Amazon Web Services, and the British Business Bank. Regional organisations such as Manchester Digital, ScotlandIS, and TechSPARK are providing grassroots support to ensure every corner of the UK is represented.

"Talent flourishes when met with opportunity. Rising Stars 2025 offers exactly that – unlocking transformative ideas from all corners of the UK and propelling them onto the global stage." Steve Rigby, co-CEO of Rigby Group

"Backing regional talent is critical to driving growth. By committing £2M to Rising Stars, we aim to empower innovators to build the UK’s next wave of tech success stories." Scott Weavers-Wright OBE, co-founder of Haatch

Apply now

Applications for Rising Stars 2025 are open until 2 March 2025. For more information and to apply, visit the Tech Nation Rising Stars website.