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.
Innovative 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.
Marketing, Advertising & PR StartUp of the Year – Hide Marketing Agency
Hide Marketing Agency is a boutique marketing partner specialising in affiliate and influencer management, as well as brand-to-brand partnerships. They help businesses build impactful collaborations that expand reach and drive growth.
Medtech & Healthtech StartUp of the Year – Blüm Health
Blüm Health is a healthtech innovator blending healthcare expertise with cutting-edge digital solutions. They deliver high-quality software and consultancy to advance digital health worldwide.
Retail & E-Commerce StartUp of the Year – Birl
Birl is an award-winning SaaS start-up making sustainable shopping easy with a simple trade-in button that lets customers exchange pre-loved items for credit.
Rising Star Award – GLR ENERGY
GLR Energy is a trusted family-run business with over 20 years of experience delivering expert heating, plumbing, electrical, and renewable energy services. Their skilled team offers everything from boiler repairs to full installations, combining reliability with modern values.
Rural 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.
StartUp for Good Award – 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.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year – Eleanor Grace Dance
Eleanor Grace Dance is led by Eleanor, a Dance World Cup finalist with experience performing on the BBC and collaborating with top companies like Birmingham Royal Ballet and Beyoncé’s dance group. Her diverse expertise fuels a nurturing space where dancers of all styles can grow and shine.
Fintech StartUp of the Year & Judges’ Choice – Pet Trust UK
Pet Trust UK is on a mission to transform the dog industry by tackling the flaws in online buying and selling platforms that put pets and people at risk.
Manufacturing & Engineering StartUp of the Year & Judges’ Choice – Privy
Privy is dedicated to ensuring access to sanitary welfare facilities that prioritise dignity, privacy, and comfort for all users. Their mission is to create safe, inclusive spaces that meet essential hygiene needs.
Media & Entertainment StartUp of the Year & Judges’ Choice – BandShare
BandShare is transforming the music industry by connecting artists with new revenue opportunities and giving fans a chance to invest in emerging talent worldwide.
Massive congratulations to everyone who took home an award at the North West StartUp Awards, you’ve truly made your mark.
This celebration wouldn’t be possible without the people who bring it to life. A heartfelt thank you to Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, whose vision continues to shape the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape. To our brilliant host Calvin Eden, who lit up the room with energy, warmth and humour. And of course, to our sponsors and partners, Airwallex, Join Talent, V-Rum, and Inventya - your support helps us champion founders across the country.
With four stops behind us, the 2025 UK StartUp Awards tour is rolling full steam ahead. Next up:
17 June – Midlands (Birmingham)
18 June – South West (Bristol)
19 June – Wales (Cardiff)
24 June – South East (Reading)
25 June – East of England (Cambridge)
26 June – London
Thanks to all the amazing people who came together in Manchester. You made it a night to celebrate, and we’re excited for what’s next.
We hope to see you all at the National UK StartUp Awards Finals taking place at Ideas Fest September 11th.