Only two days left to submit your entry for the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026

Final entries are coming in across AI, workforce skills, and digital learning as the deadline approaches.

With two days remaining until the entry deadline, submissions for the ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 are continuing to come in across AI, EdTech, and workforce development.

The awards are designed to recognize platforms, institutions, and organizations delivering measurable outcomes across education and skills. Those entering represent some of the most active and impactful work happening across EdTech today, from improving access and outcomes in classrooms to supporting progression into employment. Entries are open globally and span schools, higher education, and workforce learning.

The deadline for submissions is Friday, 27 March 2026.

A broad set of categories across EdTech and AI

This year’s awards reflect where the sector is now, and where it is heading.

Categories span digital learning platforms, AI-driven tools, and systems supporting education at scale, alongside solutions focused on engagement, inclusion, and delivery.

Core categories such as Best Digital Learning Platform, Best Student Information System, and Best Student Engagement and Assessment Tool focus on how effectively technology is being used in practice, with clear expectations around usability, adoption, and measurable outcomes.

AI is a central focus, with categories including Best AI-Powered EdTech Solution and Best AI Tutor or Personalized Learning Agent recognizing how artificial intelligence is being applied to personalize learning, automate processes, and support decision-making.

There is also strong representation across subject and delivery innovation, including Best STEM Learning Solution and Best AR/VR Learning Solution, as well as categories recognizing support for educators and learners, such as Best Teacher Empowerment Tool and Best Special Needs Solution.

Coverage across schools, higher education, and global markets

The awards are structured to reflect how technology is being used across different parts of the education system.

Best Global K–12 Learning Solution and Best Solution for UK Institutions focus on alignment with curriculum, adoption in schools, and improvements in student outcomes.

Higher education is covered through the Higher Education Innovation Award and Best Use of EdTech in Higher Education, with a focus on student experience, teaching delivery, and institutional efficiency.

Best Use of EdTech in Schools and Further Education recognizes institutions that have successfully implemented technology to improve learning, operations, and engagement, with a clear emphasis on evidence and impact.

Increasing focus on careers, skills, and workforce outcomes

A significant part of this year’s awards focuses on how learning connects to real-world outcomes.

Best Career and Skills Development Platform recognizes tools that help learners build job-ready skills, gain credentials, and navigate career pathways, with judges assessing alignment to workforce needs and evidence of progression.

Best Workforce and Industry Collaboration Platform focuses on how education providers and employers are working together, including workplace training, industry-aligned content, and scalable delivery models.

Best Lifelong or Flexible Learning Solution reflects the growing importance of continuous learning, with a focus on accessibility, flexibility, and supporting learners beyond traditional education pathways.

Together, these categories highlight how organizations are moving beyond content delivery and focusing on outcomes that extend into employment and long-term development.

Company, impact, and individual recognition

The awards also recognize broader contribution across the sector.

EdTech Company of the Year (Global) and EdTech Company of the Year (UK) focus on innovation, adoption, and measurable impact over the past 12 months, while EdTech Start-Up of the Year highlights emerging companies demonstrating early traction and long-term potential.

The Global Impact Award recognizes initiatives improving access, equity, and outcomes in underserved communities.

EdTech Thought Leader of the Year (Global) focuses on individuals and organizations shaping the direction of the sector through research, writing, and advocacy.

An Editor’s Choice Award will also be selected by the ETIH editorial team, recognizing a standout entry that demonstrates clear value or originality.

Final window to submit

Entry costs £80 per submission, or £150 for two or more entries, and organizations can enter multiple categories where relevant. Submissions are reviewed by an independent judging panel with expertise across education, EdTech, and workforce development.

The shortlist will be announced on 13 April 2026, with winners revealed on 11 May 2026.

With the deadline now two days away, this is the final opportunity to submit an entry.