Sheffield and South Yorkshire’s tech community thrives on connection. From informal get togethers over breakfast to packed-out evening talks, meetups are where ideas are tested, collaborations are sparked, and even careers can take unexpected turns. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a significant rise in the number – and variety – of tech-related meetups taking place across the region. With growing audiences and new organisers stepping forward, we thought it would be useful for all if we could compile a comprehensive directory and keep it up to date. That’s why we’re delighted to launch the Sheffield Digital Meetup Directory.
What is a meetup?
A meetup is, at its heart, a community-led gathering built around a shared interest. In the tech world, that might mean developers exploring a new framework, founders sharing lessons learned, creatives experimenting with emerging tools, or underrepresented groups finding connection and support.
Meetups are designed to be:
- Accessible – open to anyone with an interest in the topic
- Informal – welcoming and conversational in tone
- Community-driven – created by people who care about building connections for a stronger ecosystem
- Practical and inspiring – offering real-world insight, learning and support
They are often free (or low cost), volunteer-run, and powered by sheer enthusiasm for the subject matter.
Why a dedicated directory?
Our much-loved Sheffield Digital Events Calendar remains live and widely used, showcasing everything from meetups, conferences and drop-in sessions, to workshops and industry dinners. But as the meetup scene continues to expand, we recognised the need for something more tailored.
The new directory is:
- A searchable hub specifically for meetups
- A place where organisers can create profiles and promote their communities
- A way for attendees to discover events aligned with their interests
- A showcase for the depth and diversity of our regional tech ecosystem
Already, 15 meetups are listed, spanning Sheffield, Barnsley and Chesterfield. They range from community-focused groups like Sheffield Women in Tech and FaithTech, to specialist fields such as Sheffield AI and Front End Sheff – and many more.
Whether you’re looking to deepen your expertise, explore a new area, find your people, or simply see what’s happening locally, the directory makes it easier than ever.
Launched at our AGM
We officially launched the directory in February at the Sheffield Digital AGM, where a number of meetup hosts took to the stage to pitch their communities. From AI to inclusion, career development to founder support, the variety of speakers and topics perfectly reflected the richness of our local meetup landscape.
It was a great reminder that the strength of our ecosystem lies not just in our businesses, but in the generosity of the people who show up, share knowledge, and create spaces for others.
Built by the community, for the community
Sheffield Digital’s Sarah Lister, who organises several meetups herself – including the Meta Meetup, Mentors Meetup and our Individual Members Meetup – sums it up perfectly:
“Meetups are often where people take their first step into Sheffield’s tech community. They’re welcoming, informal and full of opportunity. Having a dedicated directory makes it so much easier for people to find their place and for organisers to reach new audiences. It really reflects how much our community has grown.”
Add your meetup, or find your next one
If you run a tech meetup in South Yorkshire, we’d love you to add it to the directory and create a profile. Just email Sarah to find out how.
If you’re curious, looking to learn, or keen to expand your network, take a look and see what sparks your interest. Explore the directory here: https://sheffield.digital/meetups/