- 47% of attendees at Web Summit Rio 2024 were women, with 45% of startups led by female founders.
- The Women in Tech programme fosters growth, community, learning, and networking opportunities.
Empowering women in technology: A closer look at Web Summit Rio
The Web Summit Rio 2025, scheduled for April 27–30 at Riocentro, continues to spotlight the significant contributions of women in the technology sector. Building on the momentum from 2024, where women comprised 47% of attendees and 45% of startups were led by female founders, the upcoming summit aims to further enhance female representation and participation in tech.
The Women in Tech programme at Web Summit Rio is designed to provide a platform for women to engage in growth, community building, learning, and networking. The initiative includes a dedicated lounge, meetups, and sessions led by prominent female figures in the industry. Notable ambassadors such as Carolina Kia, Co-Founder of weme & bud, and Vanessa Poskus, CEO of Uppo, exemplify the leadership and innovation women bring to the tech landscape.
In addition to networking opportunities, the programme addresses critical issues facing women in tech. According to Web Summit’s latest report, over 75% of women surveyed believe they must work harder than their male counterparts to succeed, highlighting ongoing challenges in achieving workplace equality. By facilitating discussions on such topics, the summit fosters an environment conducive to meaningful change.
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The future of women in tech at Web Summit Rio
As Web Summit Rio 2025 approaches, the focus on empowering women in technology remains a central theme. The summit’s commitment to inclusivity is evident in its programming and speaker lineup, which features influential women such as Meredith Whittaker, President of Signal, and Rebecca Parsons, CTO of Thoughtworks.
The Women in Tech programme’s emphasis on mentorship and collaboration provides attendees with valuable resources to advance their careers. Through workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, participants can connect with peers and industry leaders, fostering a supportive community that extends beyond the summit.
Moreover, the programme addresses systemic issues within the tech industry, offering a platform to discuss strategies for overcoming barriers to entry and advancement. By highlighting success stories and facilitating open dialogues, Web Summit Rio aims to inspire the next generation of female tech professionals.
With its comprehensive approach to promoting gender diversity and inclusion, Web Summit Rio 2025 is poised to make a lasting impact on the technology sector. By continuing to support and elevate women in tech, the summit contributes to a more equitable and innovative industry landscape.