There’s nothing quite like a North West crowd.
Last night in Manchester, the 2025 UK StartUp Awards lit up the city and the fourth stop on this year’s tour didn’t disappoint. The energy was amazing, the room was full, and the stories behind the start-ups were something else.
That’s the North West in action.
From solo founders chasing a long-held dream to teams building solutions rooted in lived experience, the businesses we celebrated weren’t just impressive, they were deeply connected to the communities around them.
Leading the way in the North West, Fearless Adventures Academy was named StartUp of the Year for their outstanding work and vision. Congratulations for a well deserved win!
And now, we’re off to Birmingham next. But first, let’s hear it for the North West! A huge shout out to our North West winners. You made it your night.
Our 2025 North West StartUp Winners in Manchester.
Here’s the full list of winners of North West StartUp Awards:
AI StartUp of the Year – Sum Vivas
Sum Vivas is redefining customer experience through AI-powered digital humans, lifelike, engaging avatars that deliver 24/7 support, drive efficiency, and build stronger connections.
Business to Business StartUp of the Year – Arcube
Arcube is a passenger intelligence platform helping airlines like Etihad turn post-flight moments into powerful loyalty drivers. By using data and AI to convert unused miles into personalised offers, Arcube keeps passengers engaged and coming back.
Business, Consulting & Management StartUp of the Year – The Wave Effect
The Wave Effect delivers bespoke leadership coaching that prioritises well-being, performance, and long-term growth.
Cleantech StartUp of the Year – Algaverse
Algaverse is a biotech start-up using algae to tackle global challenges like carbon capture, nutrient recycling, and sustainable agriculture.
Consumer Products StartUp of the Year – Sonic Dental
Sonic Dental creates science-backed cleaning solutions designed specifically for Invisalign users, making oral appliance care simple, hygienic, and stress-free. With a focus on innovation and standout customer support, they’re setting a new standard in dental aftercare.
Consumer Services StartUp of the Year – Scholar Saver
Scholar Saver is building the “Duolingo of student finance” an AI-powered platform that helps students stay in university, manage money confidently, and build long-term financial resilience. It is finance made simple, supportive, and actually useful.
Creative StartUp of the Year – Studio Arlo
Studio Arlo is the design studio shaking things up. It’s where bold branding, UX/UI, and standout digital content come to life. With a reputation for industry-sharp wit and work that cuts through the noise, Studio Arlo is anything but ordinary.
Digital StartUp of the Year – Scholar Saver
Scholar Saver is building the “Duolingo of student finance” an AI-powered platform that helps students stay in university, manage money confidently, and build long-term financial resilience. It is finance made simple, supportive, and actually useful.
Education & Training StartUp of the Year – Fearless Adventures Academy
A multi-award-winning bootcamp provider on a mission to open doors for future talent. By delivering fully funded, mentorship-driven programmes, they empower people to launch digital careers, build confidence, and thrive in the real world.
Equity-Backed StartUp of the Year – Roadern
Roadern is revolutionising road asset management with an AI-powered platform that makes inspections and maintenance planning fast, simple, and cost-effective. Their end-to-end solution helps road authorities manage infrastructure with just a few clicks.
Global StartUp of the Year – Sonic Dental
Sonic Dental creates science-backed cleaning solutions designed specifically for Invisalign users, making oral appliance care simple, hygienic, and stress-free. With a focus on innovation and standout customer support, they’re setting a new standard in dental aftercare.
Green StartUp of the Year – One Energy
One Energy helps homes, businesses, and communities access energy-saving grants and switch to renewable solutions. With a clear mission and a “One Target, One Energy” approach, they’re making sustainability simpler and more accessible across the UK.
Health & Wellbeing StartUp of the Year – Period Reality
Period Reality is a global movement redefining women’s health by educating and advocating for living in sync with natural biorhythms. They empower individuals and organisations to create inclusive, cycle-aware environments where everyone can thrive authentically.
Hospitality, Tourism & Events StartUp of the Year – Birch Stays
Birch Stays offers a curated collection of beautiful holiday homes paired with bespoke packages and activities. They create authentic, affordable getaways with personalised service that makes every stay effortless and memorable.