Northern Tech Awards 2026 shortlist features eight Leeds-headquartered companies across healthcare, AI, cybersecurity, and fleet technology
Eight Leeds-headquartered technology companies have been named in the 2026 Northern Tech Awards Top 100, the annual ranking of the fastest-growing tech businesses across the North of England and Scotland. The shortlist, compiled by technology advisory firm GP Bullhound and now in its thirteenth year, ranks companies by verified revenue growth over the past three years. Winners will be announced on Wednesday 23 April at a ceremony at the Imperial War Museum North in Manchester.
Why This Matters For Leeds
Eight companies from a single city making the Top 100 is a strong showing and reflects the breadth of Leeds’ tech sector. The range of sectors represented (healthtech, AI, cybersecurity, loyalty, fleet management, public sector digital) is impressive. For the city’s investment and talent narrative, having eight companies independently verified as among the fastest-growing in the North is useful evidence.
The Leeds Companies on the Shortlist
Healthcare software company behind the SystmOne platform, which holds more than 50 million patient records across the NHS. The largest Leeds company on the shortlist by scale.
Employee-owned tech consultancy specialising in AI, data, and digital delivery for the NHS and regulated sectors. One of few employee-owned models in a sector dominated by PE-backed consultancies.
BGF-backed cybersecurity training platform. Clients include Leeds United FC and the University of Cambridge.
Digital services provider for the public sector, with its headquarters and event campus in Leeds.
AI-led business data platform that maps emerging economic sectors using real-time data. Founded in Leeds in 2018 and used by local authorities and government bodies.
API-first enterprise loyalty platform with clients including PepsiCo and Burger King. Raised £11.2 million in venture capital in 2025.
UK’s leading tech-driven business mobility provider with revenues of £191 million. Headquartered on Richardshaw Lane.
Leeds-based digital services consultancy completing the city’s eight-strong representation on the shortlist.
What the Northern Tech Awards Measure
The awards rank companies by verified revenue growth over three years, with a minimum threshold of £500,000 in revenue. Companies must submit audited or director-certified accounts to qualify. The ranking does not disclose underlying revenue figures — only growth rates — but the entry criteria mean every company on the list has demonstrated sustained, measurable commercial traction. Previous winners include Skyscanner, The Hut Group, Matillion, and LADbible. The 2026 awards are sponsored by HSBC Innovation Banking, Inflexion, Squire Patton Boggs, and London Stock Exchange among others. Leeds has previously hosted the ceremony in 2015 and 2021.
- See the full short list at: https://www.gpbullhound.com/events/northern-tech-awards/
