More than 300 guests from across Northern Ireland’s thriving technology sector gathered at Belfast’s Europa Hotel for the 2026 Women in Tech Awards, celebrating the individuals and teams driving innovation, leadership and growth across the industry.
Hosted by Women in Business and compered by radio presenter and podcast host, Jordan Arnold, the fifth annual awards ceremony recognised outstanding achievements across ten categories, highlighting the depth of talent shaping Northern Ireland’s tech ecosystem.
The prestigious Outstanding Woman in Tech Award, sponsored by VANRATH, was awarded to Lorna McAdoo, Chair of Software NI and Group Director ESG Version 1, in recognition of her exceptional leadership and contribution to the sector.
Among the evening’s other winners were:
Speaking following the event, Director of Women in Business, Caroline Coyle, said: “The Women in Tech Awards continue to shine a light on the breadth and strength of talent within Northern Ireland’s technology sector. This year’s finalists and winners represent the very best of innovation, leadership and ambition that is helping to drive the industry forward.
“It was fantastic to come together once again and celebrate these achievements in what was a truly memorable evening. Congratulations to all of our winners and finalists who are inspiring the next generation of talent in tech.”
The awards come at a time of continued growth for Northern Ireland’s technology sector, with demand for skilled roles remaining strong across areas including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and digital transformation.
Headline sponsor VANRATH, alongside category sponsors including Version 1, Pytilia, IQ&Co, Openreach, TP ICAP, BT Business, Graham Group, Vyta and Allstate Northern Ireland and industry partner Software NI, joined Women in Business in recognising the achievements of this year’s finalists and winners.
Commenting VANRATH Manging Director Barbara McKiernan said, “"Every year, the Women in Tech Awards highlight not only the outstanding achievements of women across the sector, but also the impact they have on the people and organisations around them. The finalists and winners represent the very best of innovation, leadership and resilience, and their success is helping to inspire future generations to pursue careers in technology. We are proud to support an event that celebrates these remarkable individuals and recognises the important contribution women make to Northern Ireland's thriving tech community. Congratulations to all of this year's finalists and winners on this well-deserved recognition."
All finalists will now join the Women in Tech Awards Alumnae network, providing ongoing opportunities for collaboration, peer support and professional development.
For more information visit:
https://www.womeninbusinessni.com/events/women-in-tech-awards
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