Entries are now open for the first Overt STEM Awards 2026, with individuals, businesses, educators and community groups invited to showcase their achievements in STEM innovation across the Oxford–Cambridge Growth Corridor. The new STEM awards build on the momentum of recent Milton Keynes initiatives and highlight the region’s ambition to become a global hub for science and technology. This year’s programme reflects the theme Building the Future Together and supports wider collaboration across the Arc region while promoting innovation and excellence.
There are 22 award categories available, with entries closing on 16 January 2026. Finalists will gain visibility across one of the UK’s most active technology clusters. Additionally, they will help inspire future talent through stories that highlight inclusion, impact and the benefits of regional collaboration. All finalists will be recognised at a ceremony in Milton Keynes on 3 March 2026, where winners will be celebrated by peers, partners and potential collaborators. Consequently, the awards continue to strengthen Milton Keynes’ position as a leader in STEM engagement.
Alongside the ceremony, Overt STEM will host the region’s first STEM summit on the same day at MK Conferencing in Milton Keynes. Leaders from business, education, government and community organisations will gather for myth-busting discussions, hands-on workshops and live debates. These sessions will explore real experiences from across the region and highlight how the Arc can accelerate growth through shared knowledge. Furthermore, the summit aims to create new partnerships that will extend beyond the event itself, supporting long-term development of a world-class STEM event for the region.
Idrees Mohammed, recipient of the Icon / Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 at the MK STEM Awards, reflected on the significance of regional recognition. “Receiving the award is more than a personal milestone,” he said. “It represents a journey shaped by purpose, persistence and people.” His experience demonstrates how the awards highlight individual achievement while encouraging others to step forward and share their own contributions.
Overt STEM encourages businesses and individuals from across the Arc to take part and help shape the next chapter of the region’s STEM identity. As a result, the organisers hope to attract a wide range of entries that reflect the diversity of innovation taking place in the corridor.
Entries and further information are available at: events-together.co.uk/overt/awards-2026/
Follow Overt STEM on LinkedIn for updates.
