Tech4Good South West
Transforming communities through technology
About
Tech4Good South West is a regional network bringing together charities, technologists, funders, and community leaders to co-create technology that works for people and the planet.
Together we’re bridging the digital divide, strengthening digital confidence, and ensuring the benefits of innovation are shared across Bath, Bristol, Exeter and beyond.
Why we exist
We believe technology should serve people and the planet, but right now, there’s a digital divide in the UK.
The digital divide is the gap between those who can make the most of technology and those who are held back. It’s not just about having a device or internet connection.
It’s about:
Skills and confidence: Knowing how to use technology effectively and safely
Affordability: Being able to afford the technology, and use it sustainably
Availability: Having reliable infrastructure, especially in rural or underserved areas
Relevance: Having access to content and services that are meaningful
For individuals and communities, being digitally excluded means being cut off from education, jobs, healthcare, and civic participation. These barriers are even higher for marginalised groups. And while voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSEs) have the local knowledge and connections to help break down these barriers, they risk being left behind themselves as technology rapidly evolves.
For businesses, the digital divide means stalled growth, missed market opportunities, and falling behind competitors. While they may have the funds and resources to build and scale technology, they often lack the local insight and trusted relationships needed to make the tech work meaningfully for communities. The digital divide is a UK-wide problem, but it’s especially felt in the South West – despite the region’s reputation as a national leader in AI, creative tech, and life sciences.
Did you know...
Private investment in the region halved between 2021 and 2024, and public funding for accessible digital learning is also in decline
AI is the UK’s fastest-growing tech gap, yet 59% of companies aren’t upskilling in generative AI
Despite 23,700 charities in the region, few have access to AI expertise
From our own survey in 2025, only 3.4% of staff feel confident using AI
That’s where we come in. At Tech4Good South West, we unite changemakers of all shapes and sizes, ensuring everyone can access the tools, networks, and skills needed to harness tech for good.
Our mission and values
To ensure everyone - regardless of size, sector, or resources - can access the tools, networks, and skills needed to harness technology for sustainable social impact.
Community-first – we centre lived experience and grassroots needs
Ethical innovation – we support responsible, human-centred tech
Collaboration over competition – we connect, convene, and co-create
Regional pride, national relevance – we work locally with a view to national systems change
Learn more about what we stand for in our manifesto.
Our core areas of activity
1. Digital Skills Academy
We offer workshops, mentoring, and collaborative learning opportunities to upskill individuals, teams and organisations.
With a focus on real-world needs, functional skills and topics like ethical AI, we boost digital confidence and capabilities.
Whether you’re a nonprofit curious about digital inclusion projects or a tech professional with knowledge to share, there’s a place for you.
Get exclusive access to:
Expert help from skilled volunteers
Valuable digital inclusion and innovation training
Practical resources to build resilience and scale
2. Advisory and peer networks
We create welcoming spaces for shared learning, hands-on problem-solving and expert support.
Our cross-sector networks unite everyone from grassroots charities to global corporations, because we’re stronger together.
We focus on local needs, elevating lived experience, and centering underrepresented voices in tech for good initiatives.
Join our growing network:
Community-led and rooted in local needs
Inclusive and empowering, open to all
Focused on a shared commitment to delivering tech for good
3. Bespoke programmes
Our flagship initiatives turn talk into tangible action.
Through co-creation and design labs, strategic coalitions, and applied research projects, we’re driving real change and responding to regional challenges.
Whatever your background or size, there’s opportunities for everyone to play a part in community-driven tech projects in the South West.
Be part of the change:
Co-create real tools with charities and technologists
Join our powerful coalition tackling digital exclusion
Get valuable insight into the innovation landscape of the South West
Join Us
Tech4Good South West is powered by a growing network of members across sectors. Whether you’re a charity, startup, funder, student or policymaker - you have a role to play.
Membership starts from just £89/year
Support our work, grow your impact, and become part of a thriving regional movement.
Got a question? Book a T4GSW Connect Call – a 25-minute chat to discover more about our community and how we can support you in your journey in tech for good.
Where to find us
We’re a regional network based in the South West of the UK. We currently have event hubs in Bath, Bristol and Exeter, and a fully furnished co-working space in the heart of Bath, powered by our partners Runway East. We also work across our online platforms.
Follow our calendar for upcoming events and other tech-for-good activities.
Join our LinkedIn Group and follow our LinkedIn Page for regular updates and events.