We’re proud to announce the return of Digital Skills Festival, Greater Manchester’s flagship event connecting industry, education, and emerging tech talent. From Monday 2nd to Friday 6th February 2026, iconic cultural venues across the city will transform into hubs of innovation, inspiration and opportunity.
Now in its second decade, the Festival brings together employers, educators, policymakers and future talent to explore the most pressing topics shaping the digital workforce. With a bold focus on skills, diversity, leadership and opportunity, 2026 will see a programme of headline events and curated fringe activity designed to energise and unite the tech ecosystem.
Here’s what to expect:
Monday 2nd February – Future Innovators Day
We open the week by celebrating the region’s rising stars. This schools-focused event brings together students, teachers, and industry partners to showcase ideas, prototypes and solutions developed as part of our Greater Manchester-wide tech competition. A dynamic day that inspires the next generation of digital talent.
Tuesday 3rd February – Digital Her Day: Driving Diversity
A vibrant and inclusive day powered by our award-winning Digital Her programme. Expect action-learning workshops, panel discussions, and inspirational speakers all focused on creating fairer, more inclusive tech workplaces. It’s a space for collaboration, reflection, and action on DEI.
Wednesday 4th February – Talent Day: Pathways into Tech
Our flagship careers day, attracting over 2,000 attendees including students, graduates, bootcampers, returners and career switchers. Talent Day offers exhibitors and sponsors the chance to connect with future employees, deliver talks, support CV clinics and engage directly with the region’s most diverse digital talent pool.
Thursday 5th February – Digital Leaders Day & Digital Skills Feast
A day dedicated to senior leaders, policymakers and changemakers shaping the region’s digital future. We’ll host a series of invite-only roundtables and finish the day with our VIP evening dinner, Digital Skills Feast, bringing together 100+ influential guests for networking, insights, and the launch of our regional Skills Report.
Friday 6th February – AI Futures Day
AI Futures Day, new to the Digital Skills Festival for 2026, will explore the impact of AI on the future of work and the skills we’ll need to thrive. Featuring hands-on sessions, career insights and expert perspectives on where humans and machines meet, this new addition to the festival will delve into the practicalities of AI and future-proofing the workforce of tomorrow.
Fringe Events (Running all week from Monday 2nd February)
Partner-led fringe events will run alongside the main festival programme, diving deep into key areas such as AI, cyber, data and design. Expect innovation sessions, expert talks, community meetups and tech showcases across Manchester—creating space for meaningful conversations, collaboration, and skills sharing throughout the week.
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Whether you're a business looking to connect with future talent, a community leader championing diversity in tech, or an innovator ready to shape the conversation - this is your invitation to be part of something bigger.
Sponsorship packages are now open. Get in touch to find out how you can support the Digital Skills Festival 2026 and position your brand at the forefront of one of Europe’s fastest-growing tech communities.
Learn more about the 2026 festival
