From MK STEM Awards to Overt stem Awards

The Overt stem Awards will build on the success of the MK STEM Awards, expanding their reach across the Oxford–Cambridge Arc.

Our new platform recognises the individuals, businesses, educators, and communities driving innovation, shaping culture, and inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders.

Why Enter?

  • Gain recognition across one of the UK’s most dynamic STEM regions.
  • Celebrate your achievements with peers, partners, and future collaborators.
  • Inspire others through your story of innovation, inclusion, or impact.
  • Be part of a regional legacy that shapes the future of STEM.

“Receiving the Icon / Lifetime Achievement Award 2025 from the MK STEM Awards is more than a personal milestone—it’s a recognition of a journey rooted in purpose, persistence, and people.”

Dr. Idrees A Mohammed (PhD)

Deadline for nominations:
31 October 2025

Judging period:
01-15 November

Finalists Announced:
19 November 2025

Awards Gala Dinner:

03 March 2026

Awards Categories

We celebrate excellence across education, business, and community.

Click the dropdowns to view the individual awards

Education

STEM Education Trailblazer

Celebrates leaders transforming STEM teaching through innovative, inspiring approaches.

STEM Enrichment Initiative of the Year

Recognises programmes that expand STEM learning beyond the classroom.

Cross-Curricular STEAM Integration Award

Rewards initiatives blending STEM with arts for creative, interdisciplinary learning.

Education for Sustainable STEM Futures

Highlights projects embedding sustainability into STEM education and practice.

Emerging Talent & Career Journeys

Future Force in STEM – School Age (5–18)

Showcases school-age learners making an impact through STEM projects.

Future Force in STEM – Further/Higher Education (18–30)

Recognises students in higher education driving innovation and impact in STEM.

STEM Career Reboot Award

Celebrates individuals returning to STEM careers with resilience and achievement.

Industry, Innovation & Enterprise

STEM Research Excellence Award Rewards outstanding research advancing knowledge and practice in STEM.
STEM Start-Up (SEED) Recognises innovative early-stage STEM businesses with strong growth
Greentech / Sustainability Collaboration Celebrates partnerships delivering impactful green and
Changemaker / Lightbulb Recognises bold ideas or initiatives sparking meaningful change in STEM.
AI Impact Rewards impactful and innovative applications of Artificial Intelligence in STEM.

Mentorship, Equity & Inclusion

Mentoring Excellence in STEM

Celebrates individuals or organisations excelling in STEM mentorship.

Women in STEM Champion

Recognises outstanding contributions to advancing women in STEM.

DEI in STEM Award

Rewards initiatives creating more inclusive and equitable STEM environments.

STEM Ambassador Award

Celebrates individuals inspiring others through STEM outreach and advocacy.

Collaboration, Community & Regional Leadership

STEM Team of the Year

Recognises exceptional teamwork driving innovation and success in STEM.

Employer–Education Partnership

Rewards collaborations between employers and educators, enhancing STEM careers.

Arc Collaboration

Celebrates cross-regional partnerships advancing STEM in the Oxford–Cambridge Arc.

Special Recognition

Lifetime Impact in STEM

Honours individuals with a career-long contribution shaping STEM.

Overall STEM Champion

Awarded to the individual achieving the highest overall recognition.

Heartfelt Recognition (Founder’s Award)

A personal award of thanks from the founder.

Full awards entry guidance can be found here.

Get Involved

Sponsor the Awards

Partner with the Overt stem summit & awards and showcase your commitment to innovation, inclusion and regional impact. Be part of the summit and awards and position your organisation at the heart of STEM leadership across the Arc.

Become a Judge

The Overt stem Awards are built on credibility, fairness, and expertise. Our judging panel brings together leaders from education, industry, and community to ensure every entry is recognised with integrity.

By joining the panel, you’ll:

  • Play a key role in celebrating the achievements shaping STEM across the Oxford–Cambridge Arc
  • Gain insight into the most innovative projects, organisations, and individuals in the region
  • Be recognised as a thought leader and champion for excellence and inclusion

Email: meena@events-together.co.uk to find out more

MK Conferencing

The Venue

MK Conferencing is a top-class conference and meetings venue located just half a mile from Central Milton Keynes and one mile from the railway station, offering free parking for all guests!

The summit and awards will be held at:

MK Conferencing, Strudwick Dr, Oldbrook, Milton Keynes MK6 2TG

Contact us

Media Enquiries: anne@stratos.agency

General Enquiries: meena@events-together.co.uk