About Us
Our Story
Block W’s mission is to close the gender gap in the tech and digital sectors in Ireland. Gender based disparities in digital skills is an issue affecting women’s participation in the digital economy and technology sectors deepening existing inequalities, impacting talent pipelines and impeding inclusive economic and social development.
Vision
BlockW will help to change the future by fostering diversity, inclusion and equality for women and girls in emerging technologies. We connect, advocate for, and promote women and girls in emerging technologies and aspire to inject diversity into tech bringing about a future where women and girls are aware of the significant benefits emerging technologies can bring and can avail of the innovative learning on offer.
Values
At the heart of our work are the following core values.
- Inclusivity
- Excellence
- Sustainability
- Transparency
- Accountability
- Good Governance
History
Block W was founded in 2018 as a female-led network to close the gender gap in the uptake of blockchain technologies amongst women. BlockW was created in the context of well-established gender gaps in the uptake, use and progression of digital skills from early STEM subject choices through to advanced digital work, leadership and entrepreneurship.
We respond to the growing need for a forum to raise awareness of emerging technologies and to ensure that women and girls are not left behind as these fields evolve, while also strengthening the evidence base to inform and influence policy and investment decisions. BlockW was established as a company limited by guarantee in 2023 and was designated as a charity in 2025.
We Achieve Our Mission By
Partnerships and Advocacy
Through strategic partnerships and advocacy Block W creates awareness of and access to emerging technologies.
Showcasing role models & leaders
BlockW showcases role models and leaders in tech and digital through a range of events.
Research
BlockW undertakes and supports research to generate data-informed insights to guide decision making, policy development and funding priorities.
Bridging the Gap
Empowering Women and Girls for the Future of Tech and Work
Despite major policy initiatives in government, business, academia and civil society women remain starkly underrepresented across the tech sector from school right through to employment.
In today's evolving digital landscape, it's not just experts who need to be proficient in digital skills and emerging technologies—it's everyone. The entire labour force must understand how these technologies will reshape industries and jobs, and take proactive steps to stay ahead.
Despite major policy initiatives in government, business, academia and civil society women remain starkly underrepresented across the tech sector from school right through to employment.
In today's evolving digital landscape, it's not just experts who need to be proficient in digital skills and emerging technologies—it's everyone. The entire labour force must understand how these technologies will reshape industries and jobs, and take proactive steps to stay ahead.