We’re thrilled to share some exciting news – Gig Lab has been named Start-Up of the Year at this year’s Thinking Digital Conference.

Held at the stunning Glasshouse International Centre for Music, the event brought together some of the UK’s most exciting tech minds, innovators, and entrepreneurs for a two-day celebration of bold ideas and transformative thinking. And what an event it was.

Our Director, Victoria Smith, pitched her idea for Gig Lab at TusPark Newcastle Eagle Labs alongside nine outstanding innovators. Thanks to the incredible energy and support of the audience, she was voted through to the final round. She pitched again—this time at the full conference at The Glasshouse alongside the brilliant Aled Roberts of Deaken Bio and Rachel Boyd-Moss from The Offset Greenhouse.

To then be announced as the overall winner of the Thinking Digital Start-Up Competition was an unforgettable moment – one filled with pride, gratitude, and more than a little disbelief.

Victoria said: “It was an honour just to stand on stage with such inspiring people, let alone be voted the winner. The support from the audience and the wider North East community has been overwhelming.

“Huge thanks to the other finalists, Rachel Boyd-Moss and Aled Roberts who were an absolute joy to share the experience with. Supportive, inspiring, and kind to the core.

“And to everyone who voted, clapped, nodded reassuringly, or came up to say you were excited about Gig Lab, thank you! This win means the world. It proves people get the importance of grassroots venues, independent spaces, and building tech that truly supports them.”

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the organisers, judges, and everyone who voted, as well as a massive shout-out to the other finalists and all the startups who brought such passion and creativity to the competition.

The North East is alive with innovation, and we’re proud to be part of such a dynamic, driven, and supportive community.

Watch this space – Gig Lab is just getting started.