Challenge

To host the annual Tech South West Awards digitally for the first time during lockdown, bringing together tech businesses and individuals across the South West, raising the profile of the region’s tech sector and showcasing talent and achievements. 

Solution

Tech South West launched in 2015 alongside local tech clusters and companies to help connect, celebrate and showcase the sector, providing a platform for members to communicate and collaborate. The Tech South West awards were launched in 2019 to shine a light on the many tech success stories across the region.

In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic meant the awards had to take place online for the first time. The Astley Media team were determined to build on the success of the previous year and recreate all the excitement and networking opportunities of a physical event.

Astley Media managed every stage of the process to deliver a slick, engaging digital awards ceremony including planning, launch, marketing, sponsor engagement and event management.

Hopin was used for the event itself – the perfect platform for the dynamic, interactive and multi-faceted ceremony to suit the Tech South West brand.

Outcomes

Digital Ceremony

  • Registrations: 222
  • Attendees: 213
  • Total chat messages: 1200
  • Stage visitors: 189
  • Session visitors: 139
  • 17 Partners and Sponsors involved in Expo
  • Expo visitors: 63
  • 67 1:1 networking meetings
  • Average user rating of event: 10 out of 10

Media coverage

  • 30 articles – launch, announcing shortlist, winners revealed

Watch the recording of the digital event

“The Tech South West awards have become a highlight of the tech calendar for me. I was incredibly impressed by the execution of a virtual event this year and the energy and engagement it garnered from the community. The standard of all nominations was incredibly high – a great night all round.”

Vicky Hunter, Entrepreneur Engagement Manager – South West, Tech Nation (2019 Sponsor)

 

“Tech South West 2020 was a brilliantly engaging and entertaining event, to the extent that I almost forget it was virtual. The Neighbourly team were proud to be award winners amongst so many talented tech companies and people from across the south west region. We look forward to getting involved again next year. Thank you!”

Alice Whale, Digital Marketing Manager, Neighbourly (2020 Winner)