West Midlands Telecoms Showcase

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When: 22 January 2026, 09:30 - 13:00

Where: The Crescent, Birmingham, B37

Cost: Free

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This event will bring together local authorities, telecoms providers, innovators, and public sector partners to spotlight how the West Midlands is leading the way in future telecoms innovation, fixed and mobile infrastructure deployment, and digital connectivity.

With contributions from regional leadership and industry, the Showcase will explore the unique role the West Midlands plays in accelerating digital transformation across the UK – from testbed to rollout, and from lab to live deployment.

Attendees will hear directly from those at the forefront of the region’s telecoms ecosystem – including leading voices from local government, research institutions, and SMEs – and will learn how new approaches to connectivity are enabling smarter communities, digital public services, and inclusive economic growth.

Registrations will be organised by UK Telecoms Lab for security purposes.

Agenda 

We are delighted to welcome Robert Franks, of WM5G, as our keynote speaker. Robert will share insights on the region’s progress in 5G deployment, emerging innovations, and the opportunities for scaling digital connectivity to drive economic growth.

techUK is also pleased to feature contributions from Jo Cavan, CEO of the UK Telecoms Lab, and representatives from Wolverhampton Council, offering perspectives on telecoms assurance, regional innovation, and the role of local authorities in enabling next-generation connectivity.

A full agenda will be shared imminently. 

Who should attend? 

This event is ideal for: 

  • Local and regional government stakeholders 
  • Telecoms providers and infrastructure innovators 
  • SMEs and digital solution providers 
  • Academic and research institutions 
  • Central government and regulators interested in regional growth models 

Why the West Midlands? 

Home to one of the UK’s most ambitious regional innovation programmes, the West Midlands is a testbed for the future of telecoms. From 5G-enabled manufacturing and connected care to advanced digital infrastructure and new R&D investment at the UK Telecoms Lab, this is a region building the blueprint for scalable, inclusive connectivity. 

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