This event will form part of techUK’s Photonics sprint campaign, which will take place from September to December 2025. Please visit the link or email [email protected] for more information. 


Photonics, the science and technology of light, underpins many of the critical systems we rely on every day, from the internet and medical imaging to advanced manufacturing and consumer electronics. As innovation accelerates, photonics is increasingly central to the UK’s ambitions in fields like AI, quantum, defence and green technologies. 

With a market worth £18.5 billion and employing over 84,000 people, the UK photonics industry is the second largest in Europe and ninth globally, projected to nearly triple to £50 billion by 2035. This strength is built on a powerful foundation: world-leading research across more than 40 universities and a dynamic ecosystem of over 1,200 companies. 

For the UK to lead the next wave of photonics innovation, greater collaboration is essential — across disciplines, sectors and technologies. 

This event is your opportunity to: 

  • Connect with peers from across the UK’s thriving photonics landscape 
  • Hear from expert speakers about emerging trends and technologies shaping the future 
  • Discover new avenues for collaboration, innovation and commercial growth 

A key highlight of the afternoon will be the launch of the Photonics Sprint Campaign — a focused four-month initiative designed to accelerate innovation, spark cross-sector partnerships and identify scalable opportunities in photonics. Attendees will gain early insight into how to get involved and help shape its outcomes. 

Join us for an afternoon of ideas, networking and good conversation, along with refreshments, as we shine a spotlight on one of the UK’s most critical and fast-growing technology sectors. 

Agenda 

1:30-1:40pm

Welcome & Introduction from techUK 

Topic: Presentation on how to get involved in techUK's 4-month Photonics sprint campaign.

1:40-2:20pm

Guest Speakers

Expert insights on the UK photonics sector and where there is an opportunity for the UK to lead on photonics. 

 

2:20-2:30pm

Attendee Pitches / Intros 

30 seconds per attendee for anybody who would like to introduce themself to the group and flag what they're up to (participation optional). 

2:30-3:30pm

Networking 

A chance for attendees to chat in a relaxed setting over refreshments.

3:30pm

Close 


Click 'Book now' to secure your free ticket.


For more information about this event, please contact:

Rory Daniels

Rory Daniels

Head of Emerging Technology and Innovation, techUK

Ella Shuter

Ella Shuter

Junior Programme Manager, Emerging Technologies, techUK

Technology and Innovation programme activities

techUK bring members, industry stakeholders, and UK Government together to champion emerging technologies as an integral part of the UK economy. We help to create an environment where innovation can flourish, helping our members to build relationships, showcase their technology, and grow their business. Visit the programme page here.

 

Upcoming events

Latest news and insights 

Learn more and get involved

 

Tech and Innovation updates

Sign-up to get the latest updates and opportunities across Technology and Innovation.

 

Here are five reasons to join the Tech and Innovation programme

Download

Join techUK groups

techUK members can get involved in our work by joining our groups, and stay up to date with the latest meetings and opportunities in the programme.

Learn more

Become a techUK member

Our members develop strong networks, build meaningful partnerships and grow their businesses as we all work together to create a thriving environment where industry, government and stakeholders come together to realise the positive outcomes tech can deliver.

Learn more

Meet the team 

Sue Daley OBE

Sue Daley OBE

Director, Technology and Innovation

Laura Foster

Laura Foster

Associate Director - Technology and Innovation, techUK

Rory Daniels

Rory Daniels

Head of Emerging Technology and Innovation, techUK

Chris Hazell

Chris Hazell

Programme Manager - Cloud, Tech and Innovation, techUK

Usman Ikhlaq

Usman Ikhlaq

Programme Manager - Artificial Intelligence, techUK

Tess Buckley

Tess Buckley

Programme Manager - Digital Ethics and AI Safety, techUK

Elis Thomas

Elis Thomas

Programme Manager, Tech and Innovation, techUK

Harriet Allen

Harriet Allen

Programme Assistant, Technology and Innovation, techUK