Sussex-based start-up Kairos Global has been named as the Hospitality, Tourism and Events winner at the 2025 South East StartUp Awards.

Kairos Global is an experiential events agency that specialises in bringing brand activations to life. Founded in 2023 by Sam Southon, Kairos has already delivered a number of projects and boasts an impressive range of clients, including KP Snacks, Philips, BILSTEIN and more.

Sam Southon, founder of Kairos, said: “Kairos was created with the vision of making the events space better and while we’ve experienced some amazing successes thanks to our brilliant team, we’re still only just starting out. Winning 2025 South East StartUp Award is a huge privilege but it goes to show we’re on the right path.”

Supported by Airwallex, Join Talent and V-Rum, the UK StartUp Awards were established to highlight the success of start-ups across ten UK nations and regions and to celebrate the achievements of entrepreneurs in all sectors of the economy.

Entrepreneurship in the South East is thriving, fuelled by a dynamic mix of innovation, talent, and ambition. As one of the UK’s most economically active regions, it is home to a diverse community of founders building high-growth businesses across sectors such as technology, health, creative industries, and sustainability. Entrepreneurs in the South East are not only creating jobs and attracting investment but also developing solutions with national and global impact. With access to strong transport links, world-class universities, and a supportive business ecosystem, the region continues to be a powerful engine for new ideas, economic growth, and long-term resilience.

According to Professor Dylan Jones-Evans OBE, creator of the UK StartUp Awards, this surge in start-up ambition reflects a new generation of entrepreneurs who are not only identifying opportunities but are also building innovative, resilient businesses that are shaping the future of the regional economy.

“When we set up the StartUp Awards, our aim was clear: to recognise the incredible individuals building new businesses across the UK. While large firms often dominate the headlines, it’s the start-ups – the bold thinkers, problem-solvers, and doers – who are quietly driving meaningful change from the ground up. That spirit is especially strong in the South East, where entrepreneurs are combining ambition with innovation to build businesses that deliver both commercial success and positive impact. Whether launching tech-driven solutions, creative ventures, or purpose-led enterprises, these founders are helping shape the future of the economy.”

“I’m delighted that “Kairos Global has won their category at the awards and I’m looking forward to having them join the ‘best of the best’ from the South East competing at the UK final later this year.”

All regional winners in their category will now progress to the UK StartUp Awards final, taking place at Ideas Fest on September 11th (dubbed the “Glastonbury for Entrepreneurs.”) along with the winners from nine other nations and regions.