Women in Tech North East has become a Community Interest Company.
The “transformative move” for the organisation, which was founded in 2022, to promote the participation and representation of women in the technology sector, is seen as a “significant step forward.”
“Becoming a Community Interest Company formalises our work and future-proofs our ability to drive positive change in the tech industry,” said Rachel Pattinson, co-director of Women in Tech North East.
“This not only provides a framework for sustainable growth, but it will also enable us to forge new collaborations and explore opportunities for ambitious funding and impactful projects that benefit the North East community.”
Those behind it say it has since evolved into a “cornerstone of connection, collaboration, education, skills and career development support” for individuals in technology. The community welcomes women, women-identifying individuals, and non-binary and gender non-conforming people who are comfortable in a space that supports the experiences of women in tech.
“We are really grateful for the support of our partners who have been instrumental in our journey so far,”added Kathryn Wharton, co-director of Women in Tech North East.
“Together, we have organised seven fully-booked community events across Newcastle, Gateshead, and Durham. Thank you so much to Newcastle University, Aspire Technology Solutions, Credera UK, Womble Bond Dickenson, Waterstons, Home Group, Gateshead College and Marra for believing in the work we do.”
Women in Tech North East’s development towards becoming a CIC has been supported by the North East BIC, the North East BIPC and Innovation SuperNetwork. Through START UP at Newcastle University, it has also secured its first funding this Spring to support start-up and marketing costs.
