Innovation Fest
18 - 22 May 2026
Celebrating creativity and innovation at Birmingham City University
Now in its twelfth consecutive year, Innovation Fest is a true experience, showcasing the creative talent from BCU. Designed to contribute to the knowledge economy, increase students’ employability by providing them with genuine portfolio material, and support the entrepreneurial talent of our students and future graduates.
Students from our Computing, Engineering and Built Environment courses are supported by industry leaders and BCU academics to develop and showcase their cutting-edge projects that could change the world.
Save the date for Innovation Fest 2026: 18 - 22 May
What is innovation fest?
As part of the university’s experiential learning program, students are encouraged to develop projects using the latest research, innovative philosophies, and practical solutions. This approach fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, enabling students to make a real-world impact and stand out in a competitive job market.
Industrialists and businesses are invited to attend the event, giving students the chance to showcase their research projects to potential employers and entrepreneurs, opening doors to future career opportunities.
Innovation Fest is more than just an exhibition of projects. It’s a platform that connects students with industry professionals, providing them with the exposure and networking opportunities necessary to succeed in their chosen fields.
2026 Event schedule
Explore STEAMhouse
Innovation Fest takes place in our brand new STEAMhouse building at our City Centre campus. Fancy a look around? Watch as Student Vlogger Caitlin takes you on a whistle-stop tour of the building and its facilities.
Welcome to STEAMhouse, the new home of Computing and Digital Technology. Let's take a look around. STEAMhouse has many teaching rooms across four floors which are open and mouldable and offer agile learning. This is Challenge Hub, STEAMhouse's major event space. Many external and internal guest speakers have been invited to STEAMhouse sessions - just in this very room such as the Mayor of Birmingham, the Vice Chancellor, guest speakers and the Chambers of Commerce. There's also been many cool events such as Careers Fair and Innovation Fest. It's a great opportunity for students network with local businesses and professionals, right next to where you'll be studying. This is STEAMhouse's production space it's used by local businesses to print, prototype and manufacture products. It's a great opportunity for students to network with business professionals, especially if they're aspiring entrepreneurs. This is the co-working space where businesses can meet, network and collaborate. It's in the heart of STEAMhouse right next to the Business Incubator and the teaching rooms. This is the STEAMhouse incubator, home of many businesses with their own office space. Being so close to teaching facilities opens up so many opportunities for students to get involved. This is one of STEAMhouse's innovative classrooms which offers open spaces for you to learn. There's also lots of comfy study areas for you to come and catch up on your work. Just look at this amazing environment.
Innovation Fest Archive
Take a look back at Innovation Festival projects from past years, and see student stories come to life.