Tech4Good South West

Empowering Communities through technology, collaboration, and innovation

About

Tech4Good South West is a regionally rooted network bringing together charities, technologists, funders, and civic leaders to co-create technology that works for people and planet.

We exist to bridge the digital divide, strengthen digital confidence, and ensure the benefits of innovation are shared widely across communities in Bath, Bristol, Exeter and beyond.

Our Mission

To ensure everyone - regardless of size, sector, or resources - can access the tools, networks, and skills needed to harness technology for sustainable social impact.

Why We Exist

In a rapidly evolving digital world, many voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) organisations are at risk of being left behind. At the same time, there’s growing momentum among startups, funders, and civic actors who want to apply technology to real-world challenges, but lack the local insight or trusted pathways to do so.

We act as a connector, catalyst, and support system—fostering collaboration and capacity-building at the intersection of tech and social good.

Our Core Areas of Activity

1. Digital Skills Academy

We build the digital confidence and capabilities of individuals, teams, and VCSE organisations.

From foundational skills to responsible AI, we offer workshops, mentoring, and collaborative learning tailored to real-world needs.

Examples include:

  • Tech Skills for Good pilot with Aviva

  • Training as part of digital inclusion and innovation initiatives

  • Practical resources to build resilience and scale

2. Advisory & Peer Networks

We create space for shared learning, practical problem-solving, and expert support.

Our networks bring together cross-sector allies - from small charities to big tech - to share insights, build partnerships, and grow stronger together.

Our approach is:

  • Place-based and community-led

  • Neutral and agnostic, focused on shared purpose

  • Designed to elevate lived experience and underrepresented voices

3. Bespoke Programmes

We design and deliver targeted initiatives that respond to regional challenges and opportunities, moving from talk to tangible action.

These include co-design labs, strategic coalitions, and applied research projects that drive systems change and enable inclusive innovation.

Flagship examples:

  • AI Living Lab – co-creating real tools with charities and technologists

  • Bath Digital Divide Collective – a coalition addressing digital exclusion

  • Inclusive Innovation Mapping – research spotlighting who is being served (or left out) of the local innovation ecosystem

Our Values

  • 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

Join Us

Tech4Good South West is powered by a growing network of members across sectors. Whether you’re a VCSE organisation, 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.

Explore Plans & Join Today

Have questions or ideas? Book a T4GSW Connect Call with Annie – a 25-minute chat for new and existing members to connect, share updates, and explore how we can support your journey in tech for good.

Where to find us

Where we meet

Based in the South-West of the UK, our event hubs are currently Bath, Bristol and Exeter, and our online community platforms.

Follow our event Calendar for our latest events, and from partners focused on tech for good

Join our LinkedIn Group and follow our LinkedIn Page for regular updates and event listings.