Milton Keynes once again proved itself a hub of creativity, talent and collaboration as the MK Innovates STEM Festival returned to Middleton Hall in October.
The two-day festival, founded by Women Leaders UK in 2017, has grown into one of the region’s most dynamic celebrations of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). This year’s event, themed Connect to Innovate, brought together educators, employers, students and community leaders to tackle one of the UK’s most urgent challenges: the national shortage of STEM skills.
According to recent research, the shortfall in STEM talent costs the UK economy an estimated £1.5bn every year, with recruitment struggles, rising wages and lost productivity continuing to hold industries back. For MK Innovates, the goal was clear – to show that by connecting people, sharing ideas and making science accessible to everyone, Milton Keynes can play a vital role in closing that gap.
In preparation for this year’s event, Women Leaders UK secured funding from Milton Keynes Community Foundation to help deliver MK Innovates. The funding enabled students from across Milton Keynes, including those from less advantaged areas, to attend the festival by removing key barriers to participation. It also strengthened the event’s infrastructure so exhibitors could deliver high-quality, hands-on STEM experiences, and expanded outreach and engagement across schools, families and communities. This vital support helped ensure that MK Innovates 2025 was accessible, inclusive, and impactful for all.
A platform for opportunity and inclusion
The festival’s roots in promoting equality were evident throughout. Although originally established to encourage more women and girls into STEM, MK Innovates has evolved into a movement focused on accessibility and inclusion for all.
Over the two days, Middleton Hall was transformed into a buzzing showcase of innovation. More than 35 organisations, including MK College, Oracle Red Bull Racing STEMx, Network Rail, Niftylift, and Anglian
Water, NHBC MKFM , John Lewis & Partners , NatWest Group eLID Hub CIC , Sarah Thorne & Thorne Solutions, Code For Her, Women Leaders UK, and Engineered Life By Design ltd.
Dr. Susan Izadkhasti, Trustee of Women Leaders UK and Festival Lead, reflected on the event: “MK Innovates was created to encourage more women and girls into STEM, but today it’s about much more than that. We’re tackling barriers that prevent people, especially those from underrepresented and disadvantaged backgrounds, from seeing themselves in these industries. This event is a celebration of opportunity, a place where connections are made and futures are shaped.”
Two days of inspiration and connection
The opening day focused on adults and career changers, particularly women looking to transition into STEM roles. Visitors took part in CV and interview workshops, explored career pathways, and networked with some of the UK’s most forward-thinking companies.
The second day welcomed more than 1,000 local students from across Milton Keynes and surrounding areas. For many, it was their first direct experience of working with engineers, scientists and tech professionals, and the excitement was tangible.
Students engaged in everything from robotics challenges and coding activities to virtual reality experiences and sustainability projects, each designed to show how STEM shapes the world. Teachers praised the festival for giving young people the chance to see real-world applications of their classroom learning, and for introducing them to careers they might never have considered.
Collaboration driving change
MK Innovates would not be possible without the support of its sponsors, whose commitment to nurturing future talent mirrors the festival’s own values. HORIBA supported as Platinum Sponsor, HMGCC supported as Gold Sponsor, and Niftylift as Silver Sponsor.
Ifigenia Balkoura, Brand Communications and Engagement Supervisor, HORIBA UK Limited, said: “We’re proud to have been the Platinum Sponsor of MK Innovates 2025, an event that truly captures the spirit of collaboration, creativity and inclusion. Supporting this festival allows us to help ensure that every young person, regardless of background, can explore science and technology in an inspiring, hands-on way. It’s that moment when curiosity sparks, and a student realises what’s possible, that reminds us why STEM matters. It’s science with joy and fun.”
HMGCC CEO, George Williamson added: “We were delighted to be a sponsor of MK Innovates 2025. At HMGCC, we believe that diversity of thought in engineering and technology professions can only strengthen innovation. We have a duty to find missing talent and inspire those who may not have thought about a career in either STEM or keeping the UK safe.”
As a long-standing supporter, Niftylift has championed MK Innovates since its inception.
Karl Digby, Learning & Development Manager at Niftylift, said: “We’re proud to continue supporting MK Innovates and look forward to contributing to its ongoing success. It’s a fantastic platform for connecting education, industry and innovation, and a great example of what makes Milton Keynes such a forward-thinking city.”
The free-to-attend event ensured that students, teachers, families and career changers alike could experience the excitement of STEM first-hand.
For businesses, the festival provided a valuable platform to connect with the next generation of talent, showcase cutting-edge technologies, and highlight their commitment to diversity and inclusion. For visitors, it was a reminder that STEM is not just about science and engineering, it’s about creativity, problem-solving and collaboration.
As the festival closed, organisers reflected on another successful year, one that not only inspired thousands but also strengthened Milton Keynes’ reputation as a centre for innovation, education and opportunity.
MK Innovates continues to build bridges between schools, businesses and communities, ensuring that everyone, regardless of background, gender or circumstance, can connect, create and innovate.
Find out more about Women Leaders UK and MK Innovates by visiting our website here.
