Founders and Industry Leaders Gather at Tech Derby 2026

Technology is changing how companies operate, hire staff and serve customers. Those changes were a key focus at the Tech Derby Conference 2026, held in Derby, England, during East Midlands Tech Week. The event brought together business owners, startup founders, investors, lecturers, students and technology professionals. Discussions focused on the challenges businesses face and the opportunities ahead. Organised by Tech Derby, the conference covered skills development, entrepreneurship, investment and business growth. Speakers also explored the responsible use of new digital tools.

Preparing People for a Changing Workplace

One of the keynote speakers was Professor Stephan Reiff Marganiec, Head of the School of Computing at the University of Derby. He spoke about the growing demand for practical digital skills. He also highlighted the role of universities, employers and community groups in preparing people for changing careers. The discussion focused on practical steps organisations can take today. These include helping people gain experience and remain competitive in the workplace. The conference also featured a presentation by Ajibola Shokunbi, founder of AudioInsight UK. He shared how his work in music education led to the development of software that supports learning and improves access to music training.

What Businesses Are Thinking About Today

Panel sessions focused on issues many businesses face today. These included investment, productivity, customer trust and the impact of technology on daily operations. Several speakers stressed the importance of knowing where technology can add value. They also discussed areas where businesses should proceed with caution. The conversations focused on practical experiences rather than future predictions.

Supporting Founders Across the East Midlands

For Tech Derby, the conference was another step in supporting founders and professionals across the East Midlands. The organisation runs regular meetups, workshops and founder programmes. These initiatives help people build businesses, develop skills and grow their networks. Chief Executive and Co-founder Akindayo Akindolani said the goal is to create more pathways into technology. This includes supporting people who are starting businesses, changing careers or building new skills. That commitment can also be seen in programmes such as the Tech Derby Startup Pitch Competition and Innovation Award 2026. The initiative gives early stage founders an opportunity to present their ideas and gain visibility within the local business community. The conference received support from East Midlands Tech Week, the University of Derby, British Business Bank, Mercia Ventures, LemFi and other organisations across the region. As interest in technology continues to grow, events such as Tech Derby help connect founders, educators, investors and business leaders across the East Midlands.