Forfusion has been awarded a King’s Award for Enterprise for Promoting Opportunity, recognising its work to widen access to careers in technology and help address the ongoing skills shortage across the UK digital sector.
One of only 185 organisations nationally to receive the honour in 2026, the Award reflects Forfusion’s approach to building practical, inclusive pathways into technology roles, at a time when demand for skilled people continues to significantly outstrip supply.
The recognition comes as Forfusion has moved from a fast-growing North East technology business into a company that is scaling both commercially and in the way it supports people into the industry. As it grows nationally, it has made developing talent and creating opportunity part of how the business operates day to day.
Headquartered in North Tyneside, Forfusion delivers secure, resilient, AI-ready infrastructure and IT services to public and private sector organisations across the UK. The business is in a sustained growth phase, having recently been named among the North East Fastest 50 businesses and recognised as North East Chamber of Commerce SME Business of the Year.
At the centre of its approach is the Civilian Work Attachment (CWA) scheme, which supports Armed Forces personnel as they transition into civilian employment. The programme gives people hands-on experience across technical and operational teams, alongside mentoring and practical career support.
The scheme sits within a wider people-focused approach at Forfusion, where developing talent, widening access to opportunity, and bringing people into technology from different backgrounds is part of how the business is run, not a separate initiative. Alongside its Armed Forces Covenant commitments, recognised with a Silver Award, the company also supports STEM engagement, early careers pathways, and skills development across the region.
Steven Forrest, Chief Executive Officer and Founder at Forfusion, said:
“Receiving a King’s Award for Enterprise is a moment of real pride for everyone at Forfusion. Being recognised for how we champion opportunity, particularly through our work supporting veterans into civilian careers, reflects our belief that innovation and growth are strongest when people come first.
We’ve built this business in the North East, and we’re proud that it now operates nationally while continuing to create meaningful pathways for talent to thrive across the sector.
We’re proud of the business we’ve built, and we’re just as proud of the people who make it what it is.”
The King’s Awards for Enterprise, previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise, were renamed in 2023 to reflect His Majesty The King’s commitment to continuing the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II in celebrating exceptional UK businesses.
Now in its 60th year, the King’s Awards for Enterprise remain the UK’s most prestigious business accolades.