The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 officially open for entries, celebrating global excellence in education technology

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 are now accepting entries across 23 categories, highlighting innovation and impact in K–12, higher education, workforce learning, and lifelong development.

We are excited to announce that entries are now open for The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026. These awards celebrate excellence in education technology across K–12, higher education, workforce learning, and lifelong development.

This is the first edition of what we believe will become one of the most anticipated events in the EdTech calendar. The categories are designed to recognise both product innovation and the effective use of technology within education institutions and companies.

Categories spanning the full EdTech ecosystem

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 feature 23 categories, reflecting the breadth of the education technology market:

1. Best Digital Learning Platform

2. Best Global K–12 Learning Solution

3. Best Solution for UK Curriculum Enhancement

4. Best Use of EdTech in Schools and Further Education

5. Best Use of EdTech in Higher Education

6. Higher Education Innovation Award

7. Best Student Information System (SIS)

8. Best STEM Learning Solution

9. Best AI-Powered EdTech Solution

10. Best AI Tutor or Personalized Learning Agent

11. Best AR/VR Learning Solution

12. Best Student Engagement and Assessment Tool

13. Best Teacher Empowerment Tool

14. Best Special Needs Solution

15. Best Career and Skills Development Platform

16. Best Workforce and Industry Collaboration Platform

17. Best Lifelong or Flexible Learning Solution

18. EdTech Company of the Year (Global)

19. EdTech Company of the Year (UK)

20. EdTech Start-Up of the Year

21. EdTech Thought Leader of the Year (Global or UK)

22. Global Impact Award

23. Editor’s Choice Award

A full description for each category, along with downloadable entry forms and direct submission links, is available on the awards categories page.

The awards are open to entries from across the UK, the Americas, and internationally, reflecting both our editorial coverage and the global nature of innovation in education technology.

Independent judging panel

Entries will be assessed by a panel of independent judges with expertise across education, technology, and workforce development.

The judging panel will be announced shortly and will assess submissions against four key criteria:

• Innovation – originality, forward-thinking, and disruptive potential

• Impact – measurable outcomes for learners, educators, or institutions

• Scalability – potential for growth and adaptation across different markets

• Relevance – addressing current and future challenges in education and training

Key dates

• Entries close: Thursday, 7 November 2025 at 5pm BST

• Shortlist announced: Tuesday, 12 November 2025

• Winners announced: Tuesday, 14 January 2026

On 14 January, we will release an online awards video announcing winners and featuring expert commentary on the key themes and innovations identified across the entries.

Winners and shortlisted entries will also be featured in our first print magazine, which will be distributed at the BETT 2026 conference.

Supporting independent journalism and events

Here at ETIH, we love bringing our readers exciting opportunities like this. In order to keep delivering independent news, in-depth insights, and events that connect the global EdTech community, there is a small charge for entries.

A single category submission costs £80, while two or more entries can be submitted for a discounted total of £150. We will not charge schools for their entries in the school-specific categories to ensure that schools have a platform to be celebrated alongside technology companies.

Payment can be made securely via the ETIH website. Once payment and the completed entries have been received, entrants will receive official confirmation that their submission is in the running.

Hints for a strong entry

• Define the problem or opportunity the project addresses

• Reference wider industry trends or research

• Explain clearly what was done, how it was done, and why

• Provide evidence of impact, including both quantitative and qualitative results

• Outline both hard and soft benefits, from measurable learning gains to improved engagement or efficiency

• Where possible, include case studies or testimonials to bring the story to life

Why these awards matter

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 are designed to do two things. First, to celebrate the projects, platforms, and people making a tangible difference in education. Second, to highlight the kinds of innovations that will set the direction for the sector in the years to come.

We recognise that the best results often come from thoughtful adoption and integration, not just the latest tools. With the awards covering the full lifecycle of education technology, from K–12 to higher education, workforce training, and lifelong learning, we aim to set a new benchmark for recognising excellence in the sector.

How to enter

Entrants can download an entry form or submit directly via the links beneath each category on the awards page. Each entry must be tailored to the award it is submitted for, and payment must be made before entries are confirmed.

Sponsorship opportunities

The ETIH Innovation Awards 2026 will attract leading names from across the global EdTech sector, making them a valuable platform for visibility and engagement.

We offer a range of sponsorship packages that can include category sponsorship, event branding, editorial features, and promotion across our online and print channels.

If you are interested in supporting the awards and connecting with our audience of education decision-makers, innovators, and industry leaders, please email emmacate@edtechinnovationhub.com to request our sponsorship pack or complete the form below.