Welcoming Barclays Eagle Labs as a Headline Partner for Venturefest South’s 10th year
As Venturefest South marks its 10th year, it’s an important moment to reflect not just on how far the event has come, but on the partners who have helped shape that journey along the way.
This year, we’re pleased to welcome Barclays Eagle Labs as a Headline Partner for 2026. Having supported Venturefest South in previous years, their continued involvement – and increased commitment – reflects the value of building long-term relationships within the region’s innovation community.
Supporting innovation at scale
Barclays Eagle Labs has built a strong reputation for supporting entrepreneurs, startups and scaling businesses across the UK. Through a combination of workspaces, mentoring, and access to networks, they help founders navigate growth and unlock new opportunities.
That kind of support plays an important role in strengthening the wider ecosystem. It’s not just about individual businesses, but about creating an environment where ideas can develop, connections can form, and progress can happen more consistently.

A shared focus
There is a natural alignment between what Barclays Eagle Labs does and what Venturefest South aims to achieve. Both are focused on bringing people together, supporting innovation at different stages, and helping ideas move forward through collaboration.
Having Barclays Eagle Labs involved as a Headline Partner this year builds on that shared focus, adding further depth to the conversations and opportunities the event creates.
Why this year matters
Over the past decade, Venturefest South has brought together more than 50,000 innovators and businesses, helped create over £250 million in opportunities, and built a community of more than 15,000 people across the region.
Reaching 10 years is a significant milestone, but it also signals what comes next. With partners like Barclays Eagle Labs playing a leading role, there is a clear opportunity to continue growing that impact and expanding what the event can offer.
Looking ahead
This year is set to bring together a wide range of perspectives, from early-stage founders to established organisations, all contributing to the region’s evolving innovation landscape.
We’re really pleased to have Barclays Eagle Labs involved as a Headline Partner for 2026 and look forward to the role they will play in shaping this year’s event!
Join us at Venturefest South 2026
If you’re building something, exploring an idea, or looking to connect with others across the region, Venturefest South is well worth being part of.