Scottish STEM charity TechFest is celebrating a remarkable year of achievement, having reached more than 50,000 people across the UK in 2025 through its education, engagement and outreach programmes. The organisation’s year-round activities attracted 52,559 participants, marking one of its most successful years to date.
Dedicated to making Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fun, engaging and accessible for all, TechFest has continued to expand its impact across Scotland and beyond. In 2025 alone, the charity successfully reached 30 of Scotland’s 32 educational authorities, encouraging learners of all ages to explore the world of STEM while supporting educators and families nationwide.
Through collaborations with schools, local communities, education institutions and ambassadors, TechFest has inspired young people to develop new skills, build confidence and embrace STEM subjects.
Dr Martha Gavan, Managing Director at TechFest, said:
“Reaching more than 50,000 people in a single year shows great progress, and I’m incredibly proud of what our team has achieved. Those are not just numbers but a powerful reflection of the hard work and commitment that goes into everything we do, and of how impactful STEM can be when it’s made engaging, inclusive and fun.
“As we look ahead to 2026, I am hugely excited about what the future holds for TechFest, for STEM education, for Scotland and the UK as a whole. We have a real opportunity to build on this momentum, expand our impact and help empower the next generation to see STEM as something that’s truly for them.”
Several standout initiatives have contributed to TechFest’s expansive reach this year. The Primary Outreach programme — a lively catalogue of school workshops designed to make STEM engaging for young pupils — reached more than 15,000 participants across Scotland.
Meanwhile, the charity’s festive 24 Days of STEM challenge has also gone from strength to strength, inviting people of all ages to take part in interactive daily STEM activities in the lead-up to Christmas. The 2025 edition achieved a record number of participants, further demonstrating the growing enthusiasm for accessible STEM learning.
This milestone year coincided with Martha Gavan’s appointment as Managing Director, following more than seven years with TechFest, including four as Deputy Managing Director. Her leadership and vision are helping to shape the charity’s next chapter, building on firm foundations to enhance its national presence.
She added:
“With strong foundations, a clear sense of purpose and growing national reach, the organisation enters the coming year well positioned to continue making a lasting difference and ensuring STEM remains exciting, relevant and accessible for generations to come.”
TechFest’s progress has been achieved with the vital support of funders, sponsors and partners who share its passion for inspiring the next generation of STEM talent. The organisation continues to welcome new industry partners keen to support future skills development and help build a more STEM-literate workforce across the UK.
Anyone interested in collaborating with TechFest or learning more about partnership opportunities is encouraged to contact Dr Martha Gavan directly.
