The United Kingdom is on the hunt for the next big tech stars. The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has announced its first-ever global tech awards programme, the Unicorn Kingdom: Pathfinder Awards (UKPA), a programme designed to identify and empower promising tech companies with international aspirations.
The UKPA programme seeks applications from scale-up companies operating in key sectors: Artificial Intelligence, connected and automated mobility technology, cybersecurity, and digital trade solutions.
“These awards are a fantastic opportunity for tech scale-up companies to join the UK’s thriving $1 trillion tech sector,” declared UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson. “The program aligns with our government-wide commitment to fostering business growth by leveraging our highly skilled workforce and supportive regulatory environment,” he added.
John Humphrey, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, highlighted the burgeoning tech scene on the continent. “African startups are transforming the innovation landscape,” he stated. “The UKPA program offers an exciting opportunity for them to showcase their talent and potential on a global stage,” he continued, emphasizing the potential benefits for both African companies and the UK’s existing tech ecosystem.
In addition to the recognition the UKPA programme offers, winning companies will be treated to a tailor-made programme within the UK. This includes invaluable interactions with leading figures in industry and government, invitations to exclusive VIP events, and expert support through the DBT’s Global Entrepreneur Programme.
