Launched to tackle the root causes of digital exclusion in Leeds, the Ball has raised thousands for community organisations doing vital work.
Now in its fourth year, the Leeds Digital Charity Ball is far more than a glitzy night out. Yes, there’s glamour, entertainment and a buzzing crowd of digital leaders – but at its heart, it’s all about purpose. And thanks to the generous support of sponsors, its impact is growing every year. Here’s why this event really matters.
A sparkling night with a deeper meaning
Held annually in Leeds, the Digital Ball brings together the region’s digital and tech communities for a night of celebration – but there’s a powerful purpose behind the event. Attendees get to enjoy an unforgettable evening of fine food, live entertainment and networking, all the while raising money for an issue that affects millions – digital exclusion.
In a world where being connected means everything, many people in Leeds are still left behind. The Digital Ball helps close that gap. Each year, all proceeds go directly to the Leeds Community Foundation, supporting grassroots groups who are changing lives through access to tech and digital education.
It’s this combination of feel-good fun and real-world impact that makes the Ball such a key fixture in the city’s digital calendar. And with the event consistently selling out, one thing’s for sure – the Leeds digital scene is firmly behind the cause, and this momentum is only growing.
Generating real impact for real people
Funds raised by the Leeds Digital Ball are channelled into carefully selected local projects via the Leeds Community Foundation. These projects span the city, reaching people who are too often excluded from the digital world – whether that’s due to a lack of access, confidence or opportunity.
In East Leeds, Burmantofts Community Friends launched a weekly support club for older residents, providing one-to-one coaching and even a device lending library. In Armley, The Highrise Project used their grant to run creative digital art workshops, helping residents develop skills and confidence.
At Meanwood Valley Urban Farm, adults with learning disabilities are using digital tools as part of their daily work with animals and conservation. City-wide, organisations like Smart Works Leeds and Your Back Yard are delivering digital coaching, cafe-style drop-ins and practical support to help people gain independence, get jobs and stay connected.
The businesses driving change in Leeds’ digital landscape
None of this would be possible without the backing of the Ball’s sponsors – businesses who believe in giving back and supporting inclusive progress. Their contributions go beyond funding the event, they are actively helping to shape a fairer digital future.
Gold sponsors Addleshaw Goddard bring legal excellence and advocacy to the table, while The Bridge is a consultancy built around empowering people through tech. Long-standing supporter and Platinum sponsor, Hippo champion human-centred design and inclusion at every level.
Silver sponsors are equally as committed. Schroders Personal Wealth supports financial inclusion alongside digital access. Corecom Technology Academy is closing the skills gap by training the next generation of tech talent. hedgehog lab and BGF are investing in both innovation and communities, making sure growth and impact go hand in hand.
Together, these sponsors aren’t just helping fund a fantastic event – they’re helping to change the landscape of digital Leeds for generations to come. You can see a full list of this year’s sponsors on the Leeds Digital Charity Ball homepage.
Interested in sponsoring future events?
It’s not too late to get involved in supporting digital inclusion in Leeds. If you’d like to sponsor future events or become a digital partner, follow the link below to register your interest.
