What’s really driving UK tech as we head into 2026?

AI is changing how we work, global investment is evolving, and the UK tech scene is full of opportunity. Host Ben is joined by RSM’s own David Blacher and Georgie Bole to unpack the findings of RSM’s latest survey of UK tech companies, revealing how industry leaders are feeling about the future. Discover why London continues to shine as Europe’s tech capital, and how the UK’s unique blend of innovation and resilience is attracting investment from both sides of the Atlantic.

The conversation explores the evolving funding landscape, from private equity’s optimism to the government’s latest moves on R&D tax relief, and what it all means for startups and scale-ups alike. But it’s not just about money. Ben, David, and Georgie tackle the talent crunch, the real-world impact of AI on jobs and the urgent need to keep the UK’s tech workforce inspired and engaged.

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📖 Chapters

00:00:00 - 00:01:26 : Highlights of 2025

00:01:27 - 00:03:59: UK tech investment trends

00:03:59 - 00:06:01: Funding and private equity landscape

00:06:01 - 00:09:38: Workforce in tech

00:09:38 - 00:11:34: The impact of AI in 2026

00:11:34 - 00:13:40 : UK tech and US collaboration

00:13:40 - 00:14:08: R&D tax schemes and incentives

00:18:02 - 00:21:26: London's position as a global tech city

00:21:26 - 00:27:56: 2026 tech predications

00:27:56 - 00:29:00: Closing

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Whether you’ve tapped your phone at the checkout or clicked ‘donate’ after an emotive video, giving has never been easier. Charities have had to evolve with the consumer over the past decade: what was once spare change dropped into a collection box is now transforming into a fully digital, contactless experience.

But digital transformation isn’t without its challenges. As charities handle more sensitive data than ever, cybersecurity and data protection have become critical concerns.

So, how can they stay secure while embracing innovation?

In this episode, Ben Bilsland sits down with Hannah Catchpool, Head of Not for Profit and National Head of Inclusion at RSM UK, to explore how technology is reshaping the way charities fundraise and build trust with donors. They unpack the disruption of traditional giving, the growing influence of AI and why strong governance is essential to maintaining transparency and donor confidence.

🔗 Resources Charity digital skills: https://charitydigitalskills.co.uk/report/charity-data-and-resources/

Zoe Amar checklist: https://zoeamar.com/digital-guides-resources/artificial-intelligence-resources/ai-checklist-for-charity-trustees-and-leaders/

Charity Comms AI hub: https://www.charitycomms.org.uk/ai-hub

British Library cyber attack recovery report: https://www.bl.uk/about/cyber-attack

Techs role in fraud: https://youtu.be/2Te-02N9Xjc?si=6MDu-hvSoJLkSIgr

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📖 Chapters

00:00:05-00:01:25 — Introduction and RSM UK charity challenges

00:01:25-00:03:57 — The impact of cashless and contactless donations

00:03:57-00:07:29 — Online fundraising platforms: transparency, trust, and fees

00:07:29-00:08:42 — Digital giving trends

00:08:42-00:13:15 — The future of charities: technology, AI, and resource challenges

00:13:15-00:15:14 — Data, cybersecurity, and governance in charities

00:15:14-00:17:50 — Board skills, ethics, and the human touch

00:17:50-00:20:54 — Social media, digital exclusion, and reputational risks

00:21:02-00:25:33 — How charities are adopting artificial intelligence

00:25:33-00:28:19 — AI ethics, practical advice, and resources for charities

00:28:19-End — Closing remarks

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In part two of Ben Bilsland’s conversation with Nick Poole OBE, CEO of Ukie, they explore where the UK gaming industry is heading over the next 5–10 years.They discuss the growing role of AI in development, the rise of mobile-first and interactive experiences and how the sector is entering a new phase of innovation. From virtual route‑learning for train drivers to inspiring two of the biggest TV hits in recent years, Fallout and The Last of Us, industries around the world are starting to recognise the gaming industry’s wider potential.

But it’s not just tech that is evolving the world of gaming. More recently, consumer habits have shifted from combat and competition-driven titles to more collaborative and social experiences.And yes, there’s a Pac-Man fact you don’t want to miss.🔗 Links Read our latest gaming insights: https://bit.ly/4m8pdpD🚨 Never miss an episode Sign up to our media and technology preference centre to never miss an episode: https://bit.ly/3F4W52w📖 chapters00:00:12 - 00:02:58 : What's next for UK gaming?00:02:59 - 00:04:43 : How games have changed to meet the needs of the consumer00:04:44 - 00:06:24: Government support for the gaming industry00:06:25 - 00:07:32 : UK vs Global game development costs00:07:33 - 00:10:33: Gaming across industries 00:10:34 - 00:14:45 : AI in gaming 00:14:45 - 00:17:07 : AI ethics and UK leadership 00:17:08 - 00:19:22 : Getting involved in gaming: investment and talent 00:19:22 - 00:19:47 : Closing 📱 Follow us on social: LinkedIn - https://bit.ly/3Ab7abT Instagram - http://bit.ly/2W60CWm