The SPARKies Awards from techSPARK, which celebrate the best of tech in the South West, have recognised the impact of University of Bath researchers and alumni across several shortlisted categories. Nominees include University of Bath spinout Forcetek and startup firm Kelpi.
Forcetek Bath has been shortlisted for Best Use of AI. The innovative spinout uses advanced technology to help coaches and sports professionals gain actionable insights, enhance performance, protect athletes, and identify talent with confidence. The team recently worked with the British Bobsleigh and Skeleton team, helping them secure gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Dr Dario Cazzola, Royal Academy of Engineering Enterprise Fellow and Founder of Forcetek from the Department of Health at the University of Bath, said:
Being shortlisted for Best Use of AI at the SPARKies is a real honour for the Forcetek team. Our work is rooted in University of Bath research, and this recognition means a great deal as it validates not just the scientific rigour behind it, but also the technology–market fit. We believe AI has the potential to genuinely enhance player welfare in sports science and injury prevention. We’re delighted that this work is gaining widespread recognition.
Startup firm Kelpi, co-founded by University of Bath bioprocess engineer Professor Chris Chuck from the Department of Chemical Engineering, has been shortlisted for Startup of the Year. The company creates sustainable packaging from seaweed. This award celebrates businesses achieving rapid growth alongside innovation and leadership.
Kelpi secured £4.35 million investment to launch its pioneering biomaterial technology in the food and drink, and cosmetics and personal care sectors in 2024.
Watch & Learn Productions, founded by University of Bath alumnus Ross Exton, has been shortlisted for the People’s Choice Award, which is decided by public vote and is open until 12 June. The winner will be announced on the night from the top four voted companies. He said:
There are so many amazing entrepreneurial stories across the South West, so it's an absolute honour to be nominated alongside some incredible powerhouses of tech, research and innovation. 2026 marks 20 years since I began studying undergraduate Chemistry at the University of Bath, and this year promises to be our biggest yet at Watch & Learn Productions.
Also from the Bath community, alumnus David Kelly, Co-Founder of South West–based digital technology agency Storm Consultancy, is shortlisted for Mentor of the Year for his significant impact in guiding, supporting, and empowering others. He was previously a recipient of the nationally acclaimed Queen’s Award for Enterprise in the Innovation category.
Winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on 16 July in Bristol.