Upcoming SME Connect Events
Express Your Interest in our 2026 SME Delegations - From Paris to Berlin . . .
Following successful delegations to markets across the world this year, techUK are inviting members to join us once again in 2026.
Delegations are great opportunities to network, connect with businesses and investment agencies, and understand different countries’ tech ecosystems.
Our 2026 Schedule
France: 15-19 June 2026
France offers UK tech SMEs a thriving ecosystem, with Paris now Europe’s leading tech hub and home to Station F—the world’s largest start-up campus. The country's strong regional clusters in AI, biotech, fintech and deep tech alongside proximity and cultural ties, make France an attractive launchpad for UK companies seeking EU growth.
The delegation will visit some of France's regional clusters to understand the opportunities in this market. Attendance at Vivatech - France's leading tech event - will provide unparalleled access to global investors, corporates, and policy makers.
Germany: 29 June – 2 July 2026
Germany presents compelling opportunities for UK tech SMEs. With its robust tech hubs—Berlin, Munich, Hamburg— sectors like cleantech, AI, fintech, and healthtech are flourishing. Initiatives like the €10 billion Future Fund and the new Venture Capital Act provide grants, tax incentives, and equity support. Plus, accelerators and corporate partnerships—especially in industrial hubs—offer UK scale-ups a dynamic springboard into Europe.
Join this delegation as we visit some of these leading German tech hubs and meet with corporates, investors, and government officials to unlock the opportunities in this market. The delegation will also include access to GITEX Europe, Europe’s largest tech showcase with tailored startup-investor matchmaking, offering high-impact visibility, bespoke 1:1 meetings, and access to equity-free prizes to accelerate expansion across Europe.
Dubai and Qatar: 7-11 December 2026
Dubai offers UK tech ventures a business-friendly ecosystem anchored by free zones like Dubai Internet City, Silicon Oasis, and DIFC, offering 100% ownership, tax incentives, streamlined setup, and proximity to capital and innovation hubs in AI, fintech, logistics, and creative industries.
In Qatar, platforms like the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP)—a tax-advantaged free zone backed by Qatar Foundation—alongside innovation funding and academic collaboration, offer UK firms access to R&D, incubation, and regional market entry.
This delegation will explore these two key markets within the Gulf region as well as provide access to GITEX Global, the world's largest tech, AI, and startup event. The event provides direct access to over 1,200 investors from across 180 countries and features high-impact platforms like the Expand North Star startup showcase — driving visibility, funding, and expansion opportunities in the Gulf region.
Do you want to be part of it?
techUK are working with organisers to produce a series of engagements for tech SMEs and are looking for firms who meet the following criteria:
- you have an interest in expanding in the above markets.
- you accept that you will be responsible for booking your travel and accommodation, while techUK will organise the agenda, provide content and logistics support.
If you meet the above criteria and are interested in attending these delegations, please get in touch with [email protected].
Meet the Team
Ed Bevan
Ed Bevan
Ed is Head of SME Engagement and is responsible for shaping techUK’s proposition to our SMEs across the country, ensuring our policy work, market access activity and services benefit the SME community.
Prior to working at techUK, Ed worked in the at the Department for International Trade, engaging with a variety of businesses, particularly SMEs, to understand the benefits of Free Trade Agreements and act as case studies in press and social media. Ed has also worked in policy and public affairs within the voluntary sector, namely the Alzheimer’s Society and the Men’s Health Forum.
Ed holds a MA in International Relations from Leiden University, and in his spare time enjoys spending time with his son, travelling, and visiting historical sites.
- Email:
- [email protected]
Stephanie Barr
Stephanie Barr
Stephanie is the Programme Manager for SME Engagement and Nations & Regions at techUK.
Working across the two programmes, Stephanie develops activities to support the growth and development of tech SMEs and engages with members and stakeholders more broadly to help strengthen regional tech economies.
Prior to joining techUK, Stephanie worked for a political events company and as a Senior Caseworker for an MP. She holds an MA (HONS) in Politics from the University of Glasgow.
Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys travelling, climbing and playing squash.
- Email:
- [email protected]