#empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025 India Edition: Winner Announcement
Women in Cloud proudly announces the winners of the #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025 India Edition, a distinguished recognition celebrating women technology leaders, entrepreneurs, mentors, and allies whose work is advancing access, innovation, and impact within India’s rapidly expanding AI and cyber economy.
Hosted as part of WICxSaksham, this year’s India Edition spotlighted rising and established changemakers whose leadership is powering India’s transformation into a Cyber-Strong, AI-Ready, and Viksit Bharat. Finalists were selected for their proven ability to accelerate talent, build opportunity pathways, and contribute to India’s digital future through purpose-driven leadership.
#empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025 India Edition: Finalist Announcement
Women in Cloud is proud to announce the Finalists of the #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025 India Edition. The finalists are a powerful group of leaders whose work is shaping India’s present and defining its future in AI, Cloud, Cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, leadership, and community impact.
They represent more than achievement. They represent vision, resilience, innovation, and action in a time when India is taking bold steps into its role as a global digital powerhouse.
From boardrooms to startups, classrooms to communities, each finalist embodies what it means to build, lead, mentor, innovate, and create access for others.
From Book to Scholarship Model: OPULIS Awards 10 AI Innovator Scholarships Across 9 Continents
When OPULIS launched, it wasn’t just a book; it was a blueprint for democratizing access. Every collector’s edition purchased became a bridge to opportunity through the Book-to-Scholarship Model, unlocking Microsoft AI Innovator certifications for women around the world.
Today, we celebrate a historic milestone: the first 10 recipients of the WICxAI Innovator Scholarship, representing seven countries and five continents, from Canada to Kenya, India to Brazil. Each of them embodies OPULIS’s mission: to transform access into action and leadership into legacy.
OPULIS becomes the No. 1 Bestseller on Amazon within hours of its launch
OPULIS, the landmark collector’s edition coffee table book endorsed by Microsoft and the Microsoft Alumni Network, has officially become an Amazon #1 Bestseller within hours of its global debut.
Honoring 50 women tech leaders who shaped Microsoft’s evolution into the AI era, OPULIS stands as both a tribute to history and a blueprint for the future.
Women In Cloud at Microsoft Ignite 2025: Where Market Makers Meet to Shape the Future of Go-To-Market Growth
To all Microsoft customers, partners, and ecosystem leaders in the San Francisco area, you are invited.
Women in Cloud is honored to join Microsoft Ignite 2025 as one of the Top Global Community Partners, hosting three high-impact activations designed for executives and innovators who are ready to create and move markets with Microsoft and the community
HeirAid AI: How Arulselvi Amirrthalingam Turned a Legal Burden into an AI-Powered Act of Kindness
When Arulselvi Amirrthalingam first learned about the AI Innovation Challenge, she didn’t see it as a competition. She saw it as an experiment in possibility, a test of whether artificial intelligence could be guided by human empathy.
“I’ve always believed that technology’s highest purpose is to make life more equitable,” she says. “The Challenge gave me a chance to prove that innovation and compassion can coexist.”
Her idea, which would later become HeirAid AI, started with a simple question: What if legal guidance could be as accessible as a conversation?
Announcing #WICxSaksham2025: Creating Cyber-Ready Minds. Securing AI Futures. Powering Viksit Bharat.
India stands on the cusp of a historic transformation. To accelerate its path to a $7 trillion economy by 2030, the ambition to build a Viksit Bharat, a developed, self-reliant, and digitally advanced nation, demands a revolution in talent readiness, digital resilience, and inclusive growth.
In response, Veeam® Software, a global leader in data protection and ransomware recovery, together with Women in Cloud (WIC), has launched the Saksham and Sakshar Bharat Initiative under the Bharat CyberSuraksha Mission, a landmark three-year national workforce development program to certify 1 million people in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud, and Cybersecurity.
AI Access for All: OPULIS Global Launch to Award 100 AI Scholarships Worth $1 Million to Train and Certify Future Innovators
Women in Cloud announces the global launch of OPULIS: Women Powering Microsoft’s Trillion-Dollar Shift, a collector’s edition book featuring leadership strategies and celebrating 50 women who helped shape Microsoft’s evolution into the AI era. Microsoft and the Microsoft Alumni Network officially endorse the publication.
As part of this historic launch, $1 million in Microsoft AI Innovator Scholarships will be awarded through the Book-to-Scholarship Model, a first-of-its-kind initiative turning book ownership into a career opportunity.
Become a Professional AI Innovator with Microsoft Certification: Apply to Unlock Your Scholarship ($6500 Value)
Imagine This…
A world where every woman, no matter where she begins, has the chance to thrive in the age of AI. That’s the vision behind the OPULIS Committee’s mission: to ignite 1,000 AI careers through our Book-to-Scholarship model, so women everywhere can access professional AI Innovator opportunities and be personally coached to achieve economically stable, purpose-driven careers.
On October 28th, as we officially launch OPULIS: Women Powering Microsoft’s Trillion-Dollar Shift, we’re not just unveiling a book; we’re lighting a movement. Every 10 books purchased funds a Microsoft AI Innovator Certification Scholarship, helping women gain the skills, mentorship, and community they need to succeed in the AI economy.
AI Innovation Challenge Opens – $25,000 in Prizes for the Boldest Minds This Fall
Microsoft and Women in Cloud are excited to announce the AI Innovation Challenge – Fall Edition 2025, a unique opportunity for individuals looking to redefine their professional identity and position themselves as leaders in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.
As Matthew Calder , Sr. GTM Manager at Microsoft, shares:
“The Innovation Challenge is a catalyst for unlocking opportunity, showcasing talent, and driving inclusive innovation. Our work with Women in Cloud reflects a shared commitment to empowering communities through access to cutting-edge tools, mentorship, and certification pathways. It’s exciting to be shaping the future of AI together.”
One Night, Once-in-a-decade moment: Why October 28th Belongs on Your Calendar
Most events you attend? They blur together. A few hours, a few photos, and by next week they’re gone.
But every once in a while, there’s a moment you carry for life. When we set a Guinness World Record together, many of you said, “Next time, I won’t miss it.”
This is the next time.
Only the Influential Will Own It: 10 Irresistible Reasons You Must Have OPULIS in Your Hands Now
Don’t just own OPULIS—elevate yourself and four others into the most influential network of our time. This isn’t just a book purchase. It’s an invitation to step into history, influence, and legacy together.
Dear Future Me: Add Your Voice to the OPULIS Time Capsule
Every generation leaves behind markers of who they were, what they dreamed, and the legacy they hoped to build. For us, that marker is the OPULIS Capsule Project: Dear Future Me.
This once-in-a-generation storytelling initiative is more than a time capsule; it’s a living archive of our collective imagination, hope, and leadership.
On October 30, 2025, during the OPULIS Global Launch, the capsule will be sealed with stories, visions, and commitments from changemakers around the world. It will remain untouched until 2035, when it will be opened to remind future leaders what we dared to envision today.
#empowHER50: How Most GTM Campaigns Miss the Human Story And The 100 Digital Spotlights That Changed Our Approach Forever
In an age of relentless product pitches and feature wars, a quiet revolution has begun. It’s not about what you sell, it’s about who you elevate. Our empowHER50 campaign delivered in just 3 months:
- 100 Digital Spotlights
- 4M+ total impressions
- proving that human storytelling is the most powerful engine for a Go-To-Market strategy.
Women in Cloud, in partnership with Veeam India, launches ‘Saksham and Sakshar Bharat Initiative’ to Build a Cyber-Resilient Bharat
India stands on the cusp of a historic transformation. To accelerate its path to a $7 trillion economy by 2030, the ambition to build a Viksit Bharat, a developed, self-reliant, and digitally advanced nation, demands a revolution in talent readiness, digital resilience, and inclusive economic growth.
In response, Veeam Software, a global leader in data protection and ransomware recovery, together with Women in Cloud (WIC), has launched the ‘Saksham and Sakshar Bharat Initiative’ under the Bharat CyberSuraksha Mission.
This is a landmark 3-year national workforce development program to certify 1 million people in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Cloud, and Cybersecurity, designed to unlock secure digital livelihoods and propel India’s leadership in the global AI-powered economy.
#WICxESG2025: Claim Your Seat at the Billion-Dollar Table
What if You were the one creating a Billion-Dollar Idea?
Every few years, we hear about a breakthrough that reshapes industries, creates new markets, and leaves the rest of us wondering: “How did they see it before anyone else did?”
Uber turned unused cars into a global transit system. Airbnb turned spare bedrooms into a billion-dollar hospitality business. OpenAI turned code into conversations that billions now rely on daily.
These weren’t just products. They were ideas that changed the rules of the game.
Women in Cloud Unveils OPULIS: A 50-Year Tribute to Women of Significance Driving Microsoft’s Trillion-Dollar Market Shift
As part of celebrating Microsoft’s 50th Anniversary, Women in Cloud, with endorsement from Microsoft and the Microsoft Alumni Network, proudly unveils OPULIS, a stunning global coffee table book honoring 50 women whose leadership, innovation, and vision helped shape Microsoft’s evolution and who are now championing the democratization of computing and AI access for the next generation.
Launched under the #empowHER50 campaign, OPULIS will debut globally during Microsoft Giving Month in October 2025. The making of OPULIS was never about creating a vanity list. It is a legacy tribute, a powerful signal to every Microsoft woman, today and for the next 50 years: You belong. You have an impact. Your story matters.
Celebrating Five Years of Bold Leadership: Women in Cloud and Kyndryl Announce 2025 #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Award Winners
Women in Cloud, in partnership with Kyndryl, proudly announces the winners of the Fifth Annual #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025, a distinguished recognition honoring women technology leaders, Impact film makers, entrepreneurs, and allies, showcasing their transformative work in empowering access for women in the AI-powered economy while accelerating corporate ESG and UN SDG goals.
Now in its fifth year, the #empowHERaccess Awards received an impressive 200 nominations across 10 award categories, spotlighting changemakers around the globe who are forging equitable paths within the technology industry.
Announcing the 2025 #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards Finalists
We’re proud to unveil the official finalists for the fifth annual #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025, a global recognition platform celebrating women leaders, tech entrepreneurs, impact filmmakers, and allies who are transforming the AI-powered economy for good.
This year, we’re taking the stage across the United States and India, spotlighting the invisible contributions that make a visible impact across AI, Cybersecurity, Film, Sports, Wellness, and Tech.
#ICONSEmerge: AI Executive Readiness Summit 2025
We’re at the dawn of a bold new enterprise paradigm, the one where intelligence is no longer siloed in systems or departments. Every executive now can deploy AI at scale, build revenue engines powered by machine learning, and prepare their workforce to become agent bosses, AI-enabled team leaders who direct workflows, augment decisions, and co-create with technology.
Welcome to the age of the Frontier Firm, where companies operate with exponential capacity because they’re led by people who are both human and highly intelligent, with AI as their co-pilot.
DevSecOps: The $23 Billion Opportunity You Can’t Afford to Miss
The world of software development and cybersecurity is evolving at lightning speed. With AI, cloud, and automation rewriting the rules of innovation, DevSecOps has emerged as the future-proof career path—projected to grow into a $23 billion industry by 2028.
Yet, for many students and professionals, DevSecOps remains unknown, misunderstood, and inaccessible.
Join the Microsoft AI Innovation Challenge June Edition – Win Up to $25,000!
Women in Cloud in collaboration with Microsoft is excited to unlock this AI innovation challenge opportunity for anyone to showcase their Azure AI skills, solve real-world AI challenges, and compete for $25,000 in cash prizes!
Announcing #WICxInspire 2025: The Leadership Convergence on GTM & AI
#WICxInspire2025 is the premier summit where founders, investors, and enterprise leaders converge to redefine go-to-market strategy and lead in the era of AI. Focused on AI innovation, cross-sector partnerships, and community-powered acceleration, this immersive summit brings together the boldest minds shaping the next era of business.
Through high-impact keynotes, interactive panels, curated networking, and real-time showcases, #WICxInspire2025 will unveil scalable GTM playbooks, breakthrough funding strategies, and proven partnership models driving growth in today’s AI economy.
It’s Official — We Made History, Together!
We did it! Thanks to you, our incredible community, we’ve successfully earned the GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title for most users to take an online multi-level artificial intelligence lesson in 24 hours, with a total of 126,151 participants. As a team, we earned this title during the global kickoff celebration for the Microsoft AI Skills Fest on April 8, 2025, with learners of all levels, ages, and geographies.
#empowHERaccess Global Prestige Awards 2025: A Global Celebration of Women in AI, Technology, and Economic Leadership
The #empowHERaccess Global Prestige Award 2025 honorees represent the future of leadership in the AI-powered economy,” said Chaitra Vedullapalli, President of Women in Cloud. “These women are leading transformative initiatives within their organizations, driving innovation and measurable business outcomes. Companies with women in senior leadership roles are 30% more likely to outperform their peers, proving that visibility and recognition of these leaders are critical for building a thriving, inclusive AI-powered economy.
Launching #empowHER50: Celebrating Half a Century of Women Leaders Democratizing Computing Access at Microsoft
Women in Cloud (WIC) proudly announces the launch of the #empowHER50 campaign endorsed by Microsoft and Microsoft Alumni Network —a groundbreaking initiative dedicated to honoring and celebrating the contributions of past and present women leaders at Microsoft who have played a pivotal role in democratizing access to technology, opportunity, and growth.
How Women’s Inclusion Can Help Fill Global Cyber Talent Gap
Cybersecurity faces a 4-million global workforce gap, but limited access to education and training keeps many women from entering the field. 🚨
Without structured pathways, from early education to workforce readiness, the industry struggles to build a diverse and skilled talent pool. Increasing women’s participation requires breaking down these barriers, said Chaitra Vedullapalli, founder and president of Women in Cloud.
A Celebratory 5 Year Milestone for Women powering the AI economy!
The Washington State Senate honors Women in Cloud and IGNITE Worldwide for their monumental impact in advancing economic access, innovation, and representation for women in technology.
Should you use AI during job interviews?
I might be coming for your job, but what if you come for the job with AI first? There’s ongoing debate over whether job candidates should be using artificial intelligence tools to get an edge in interviews. We caught up with startup and recruiting leaders in Seattle for their take on the tricky issue of whether AI use is cheating or a desired skill
How ‘Women in Cloud’ Flips the Script on AI and Gender Bias
The issue isn’t the lack of investment in women-led businesses, it is the larger challenge of preparation and access.
While everyone’s busy fearing AI for wiping away jobs, something that demands equal stirring is AI deepening the existing gender inequalities. Since AI learns from historical data, when the training data reflects societal biases, AI systems inherit and amplify discrimination.
From hiring algorithms to wage prediction, models may deepen gender pay gaps.
The power of community for women in tech
In the fast-evolving tech landscape, community is crucial for women’s growth, economic empowerment, and success. Below we’ll explore how women in tech can leverage executive preparedness, mentorship and community to advance their careers and make meaningful contributions through the insights of four influential leaders involved in the Insider Circle programme from Women In Cloud.
Women In Cloud Named Finalist in CRN’s 2024 Women of the Year Awards
Women In Cloud is proud to share that CRN®, a brand of The Channel Company, has named them as a finalist in the Community Impact Award category of the 2024 CRN Women of the Year Awards. This prestigious award honors Women In Cloud’s commitment to fostering an equitable workplace and supporting excellence across the IT channel by generating over $100M in access for women and allies in the tech ecosystem.
Announcing the #WICxESG2024: AI & Sustainability Leadership Preparedness Summit
This year, we’re building on that momentum, and it’s nothing short of amazing. We are beyond thrilled to announce that EY has partnered with us as the presenting sponsor for our ESG Signature Summit. This partnership reflects a powerful alignment of values and commitment to driving sustainable change.
With EY by our side, this year’s summit promises to be even more impactful, pushing boundaries and inspiring leaders to embrace ESG as a core part of their strategy. We can’t wait to embark on this next chapter with all of you—together, we’ll continue to lead, innovate, and shape a more sustainable future.
Stella Foundation and Women In Cloud Partner to Accelerate GTM Success in the Enterprise Customer Ecosystem
Stella Foundation and Women In Cloud partner to boost GTM success with Cloud & AI certifications, B2B coaching, and leadership labs for tech companies.
Stella Foundation and Women In Cloud (WIC) announced a strategic partnership focused on accelerating Go-To-Market (GTM) success within the enterprise customer ecosystem. This collaboration unites innovative strategies and resources to empower companies through Cloud and AI certifications, enterprise B2B GTM coaching, and leadership development.
AnimationXpress and Women in Cloud partner to empower Women in Animation and AI talent development at AM Summit and Ann Awards
AnimationXpress and Women in Cloud are thrilled to announce a strategic partnership aimed at advancing the role of women in the animation industry and fostering AI skilling/talent development. This collaboration will support the upcoming Animation & More (AM) Summit and Ann Awards to honour outstanding achievements in animation and AI, celebrating their creativity, leadership, and impact in the industry.
Chaitra Vedullapalli is a Finalist for the 2024 Thnks Gratitude in Business Awards™
In celebration of World Gratitude Day on September 21, 2024, Thnks is proud to recognize the individuals and companies that are growing their businesses with gratitude and this year Chaitra is a Finalist!
“Expressing gratitude through personal notes, public acknowledgments, and collaborative celebrations has strengthened partnerships, increasing partner loyalty and expanding our Women in Cloud network. This culture of appreciation has significantly contributed to our business growth and enhanced relationship-building.” – Chaitra Vedullapalli
Vote for her!
Women in Cloud & Insight announce 2024 #empowHERaccess Prestige Award Winners
Women in Cloud, in partnership with Insight Enterprises, is proud to announce the winners of the fourth annual #empowHERaccess Prestige Awards, an industry platform to honor and uplift women and ally tech leaders and entrepreneurs creating a future with greater equitable economic access.
Now in its fourth year, the #empowerHERaccess Prestige Awards received a record number of nominations, 200+ nominations ranging across 9 categories from 15 countries.
Women in Cloud‘s ’ICONS’ To Screen at Hollyshorts, Oscar-Qualifying Festival
The debut documentary from the Women in Cloud organization ‘ICONS’ has been selected to screen in the Oscar-Qualifying HollyShorts Film Festival on August 10, 2024, at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Empowering tomorrow’s leaders: EY announces collaboration with Women in Cloud for women’s leadership and development
In a move that is designed to reshape the future of leadership and workforce dynamics, EY Global Consulting and Women in Cloud have announced a collaboration aimed at accelerating leadership, upskilling and development for women in AI, cloud and cybersecurity. This collaboration is positioned to help dismantle barriers and create a pipeline of female leaders equipped to navigate and excel in the digital age.
Women in Cloud: The World Needs to Know Your Story
How the #EmpowHERaccess Awards are recognizing women in Cloud, AI, and Cyber.
Women in Cloud provides a platform for these changemakers to be recognized on a global scale. Cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity are at the forefront of a $7 trillion industry. Women in Cloud ensures women’s voices are heard and celebrated in these transformative fields.
Building Bridges: How Access Generation Drives Innovation
While there were subtle positive changes over the years, if you blinked you would miss them. It was when I was at Oracle doing my first consulting project at a bank, that I realized that the lack of diversity and inclusion I was experiencing was not due to a lack of talent from diverse communities, but rather a lack of access. At that moment my eyes were opened and I could see the problem clearly and more importantly, the solution.
The vital role of AI skills in women’s career advancement and practical steps to begin
With the unparalleled level of noise, confusion, and fear surrounding AI it can become overwhelming to parse out what news is sensationalised and what is true, especially when it comes to AI and the impact it has on the jobs market.
International Women’s Day: Expanding cybersecurity opportunities in the era of AI
To further develop women’s careers, Microsoft Philanthropies and Women in Cloud jointly sponsor the Women in Cloud Cybersecurity Scholarship to provide women with structured skills development, certification opportunities, and employability readiness coaching. By 2025, more than 5,100 scholarships will be awarded.
Forbes: Female Filmmakers Should Embrace Rather Than Fear of AI
Forbes just published an article summarizing the discussion and the event. Worth a read to hear from some of the amazing women who joined us on the panel.
Women In Cloud Sets New GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Title for Most Users in a Vision Board Video Hangout
Starting February 16, the 19th annual Oscar Nominated Short Films will be available in over 700 theaters globally and in 75-plus theatrical markets, including New York and Los Angeles. This is the only opportunity for audiences to watch all of the short film nominees in theaters before the 96th Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, March 10.Starting February 16, the 19th annual Oscar Nominated Short Films will be available in over 700 theaters globally and in 75-plus theatrical markets, including New York and Los Angeles. This is the only opportunity for audiences to watch all of the short film nominees in theaters before the 96th Academy Awards ceremony on Sunday, March 10. This year’s theatrical release also includes a new partnership with Women In Cloud, a global network of 100,000 women tech founders, executives, tech professionals and allies in 67 countries.
Building Opportunity: WICxAnnualTour 2024 Advances Women’s Leadership in Cloud and AI for Global Equity
The record-breaking event saw a staggering 632 users from around the world participating in the video hangout submitting a total of 503 approved vision boards. This new record stands as a testament to the power of digital engagement and the unifying force of creative collaboration.
Celebrating Success, Pioneering Progress: #WICxAccenture B2B Coaching Program Catapults Women Founders to the Forefront of Industry Tech Innovation
How 22 Women Tech Founders and 51 Accenture Executives Are Fostering industry partnership with #WICxAccenture B2B Coaching Program.
Women in Cloud Presents #WICxESG 2023: Sustainability & AI Digital Summit
omen in Cloud, alongside Accenture, is gearing up for its annual #WICxESG 2023 digital summit, a monumental gathering converging sustainability, artificial intelligence (AI), and the brightest women minds of our generation!
Chaitra Vedullapalli Recognized As Esteemed Honorees For the 2024 Women of Impact Award
Women Impact Tech is publishing a list in conjunction with American Business Women’s Day, honoring the accomplishments of businesswomen across the nation, pushing through barriers of male-dominated work spaces. The Women of Impact list pays tribute to the women who have made a significant influence on the technical profession, paving the way for other women in the field.
Chaitra Vedullapalli Named As a WPO 2023 Entrepreneurial Women of Impact Award
The Entrepreneurial Women of Impact Awards is a joint collaboration between the Women Presidents Organization (WPO) and Women Elevating Women (W.E.W.). The awards are generously sponsored by JPMorgan Chase Commercial Banking to recognize the outstanding professional achievements and community service of women of color entrepreneurs based in North America.
#WICXROLEMODELS: Celebrating the Vanguard of Women in India’s GovTech Sector
The nexus of government and technology has become the cornerstone of modern security strategies. Innovations in technology have placed defense on the cutting edge of technological advancement for decades. Today, this dynamic relationship is enjoying a renaissance, with a new generation of thought leaders emerging to shape India’s GOVTECH landscape.
Shaping India‘s Future: #WICxIndia 2023 Revolutionizes Women’s Leadership in the Cloud and AI Ecosystem
Women in Cloud, alongside Veeam, ET Edge (A Times Group Initiative), and Tech Observer, is proud to announce the launch of #WICxIndia 2023. This monumental initiative celebrates India’s groundbreaking cloud and artificial intelligence (AI) ecosystem while creating pathways for women’s leadership growth.
#Sashakti Samman: Women in Cloud and Veeam India Collaborate to Empower Women Leaders in Defense Tech and Government Organizations
Women in Cloud, in collaboration with Veeam® Software India, a leader in Data Protection and Ransomware Recovery is thrilled to unveil the #SashaktiSamman campaign, powered by TechObserver and supported by Veeam’s Women in Green and Women in Cloud initiatives.
Women in Cloud and Teradata Corporation Join Forces to Host #WICxInspire2023: Cloud B2B Partnerships Summit
Women in Cloud (WIC), a community-led economic development organization, is thrilled to announce their annual signature industry event, #WICxInspire, focused on B2B partnerships. Presented in collaboration with Teradata, #WICxInspire2023 is designed to empower women tech founders and cloud channel companies to build game-changing B2B partnerships that create new customer demand and opportunities, driving innovation in the tech industry.
Founders First Capital Partners Sponsors Women in Cloud to Foster Financial Opportunities for Women Tech Founders
The collaboration aims to provide the WIC community with access to non-dilutive financing options. Women business owners have statistically seen fewer opportunities to access venture capital or traditional bank lending to grow their businesses than their male counterparts. To combat this discrepancy, WIC and Founders First are working together to identify women business owners who could benefit from growth capital.
Women in Cloud Partners with Insight for Third Annual #empowHERaccess Awards
Women in Cloud has partnered with Insight Enterprise, a Fortune 500 solutions integrator, to proudly announce the third annual #empowHERaccess Awards to recognize outstanding contributions to the tech industry.
Danny Trejo And Veronica Falcón Board Indie Sports Drama ‘American Underdog’
Exec producer Chaitra Vedullapalli brings to the film her vast network of Women-In-Cloud, in the organization’s initial foray into features via #MxW Ventures. Women-In-Cloud’s mission is to grant access to women and allies from the tech industry into entertainment to help shape meaningful narratives and ensure proper representation and visibility of otherwise marginalized groups.
Co-Founder & President of Women In Cloud, Chaitra Vedullapalli named in Top 50 ESG by Constellation Research
Executives Leading the Charge for a Sustainable Future Named on Earth Day
Women in Cloud and Insight Launch Scholarship Program for Agile Leadership Training
The partnership with Women in Cloud is part of Insight’s commitment to promoting gender diversity in the IT industry and empowering women to pursue careers in technology. “We believe that diversity is the key to innovation, success and advancements in technology,” said Andrea Perkins, Vice President, Digital Enablement, Insight.
Amplifying the impact of trailblazing women leaders
Since 2020, we have engaged and showcased more than 30 women-owned businesses as part of the Microsoft #BuildFor2030 Initiative. This initiative is focused on raising awareness and support for advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals by accelerating innovation, change-making, and the collective impact made possible with our global partner ecosystem.
Women in Cloud Launches #CloudCXO Summit Series To Showcase Women Tech Leaders Who are Industry Visionaries
The #WICxCloudCXOSeries will highlight women leading tech initiatives as role models for those in attendance to learn from and aspire towards, while creating access, representation and opportunities for all members.
Women In Cloud Recognized by Washington State Senate in Bill SR 8630 for Bridging Gender Representation & Access Gap in Tech
Senator Kuderer shared, “Year after year I speak in support of this resolution, calling out the main areas of major gender imbalance in the tech field, and that includes educational opportunities, access to venture capital, contract procurement and opportunities for promotion.
Women in Cloud and Veeam India Announce Partnership to Enhance Diversity and Inclusion in Cloud Data Management
According to recent statistics, only 26% of computing jobs in India are held by women, and in the field of cloud data management and security, women are even more underrepresented. WIC and Veeam India are committed to changing this by creating a more inclusive and diverse ecosystem in India for cloud data management.
Women in Cloud Launches Annual Subscription Program Focused on Cultivating & Celebrating Leadership
According to DDI’s 2023 Global Leadership Forecast, the percentage of women in tech leadership roles is trending down, currently at 28%. Launched a new annual subscription program, #WICxInsiderCircle Program, focused on cultivating and celebrating leaders in the $7 Trillion Cloud & AI Ecosystem.
MIND THE (PAY) GAP
The gender pay disparity and broken leadership ladder continue to disadvantage women of color, but a new generation of visionaries are picking up the slack and changing the face of the future
Women In Cloud Announces ‘Top 100 Women Tech Founders’ List: First 50 B2B Cloud SAAS and Services Founders are Named
The #WICxTop100 B2B Cloud SAAS and Services List is a spotlight campaign designed to accelerate brand awareness and sales for women-led tech solutions companies throughout the enterprise ecosystem.
Women in Cloud and Avanade Partner to offer International Women’s Day Hackathon
An ESG Integration Project with Women In Cloud Ecosystem
Ruth Rowan, Chief Marketing Officer at Avanade says: “At Avanade we believe that supporting women and gender equality is not only a moral, but also a strategic imperative for creating a more equitable and fair world.
Women in Cloud Is Making a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ Title Attempt While Helping Women and Allies Navigate Their Future
This immersive experience is ideal for women of all ages looking to change gears in their lives, whether transitioning from high school to college, college to career, employment to self-employment, employment to retirement, or those seeking a change in their career fields.
#WICxAnnualSummit 2023: A Global Summit Igniting Collective Responsibility & ESG Leadership To Drive Responsible Businesses
Women in Cloud announces the fifth Annual Summit beginning January 2023 as a three-week hybrid experience that will ignite the power of “Collective Responsibility” through purpose, innovation and excellence to accelerate ESG leadership and solutions to drive responsible businesses.
Buildfor2030: Accelerating Innovation
#BuildFor2030 is a call-to-action for partners to drive social impact with their technical solutions. Together with Microsoft, women entrepreneurs can create innovative solutions and create more economic access. Watch the video: https://lnkd.in/gv84XjQB
Fortune Mention: The female founders hoping to fix gender disparity in cloud tech
“There’s still a significant gender gap in cloud computing and the way that women are treated even once they break through leaves a lot of room for improvement,” says Vedullapalli. “So, even though we’ve made great strides for women in cloud, there’s still a long way to go.”
Women in Cloud Kicks-Off #WICxLEAD ESG Leadership Accelerator with Inaugural Cohort of Corporate Women and Tech Founders
Women in Cloud kicked off their new #WICxLEAD accelerator program, a turnkey solution for women leaders to define their leadership purpose and create impactful ESG strategies, operating models and reporting mechanisms that support women tech entrepreneurs in the supplier ecosystem.
Women in Cloud and Accenture Partner to Deliver World Class Coaching to Women Tech Founders
Women in Cloud and Accenture partner to deliver a first-of-its-kind coaching program designed to support women tech founders in accelerating their growth in the enterprise industry through one-on-one coaching from Accenture leaders.
Women in Cloud Announces WICxTop100 Founder Campaign to Spotlight Women Cloud Entrepreneurs Advancing ESG and Sustainable Development
Women in Cloud (WIC) announces the launch of their inaugural WICxTop100 Women Cloud Founder campaign recognizing women cloud founders who are developing innovative solutions that consider environmental sustainability and foster economic and social development.
Kyndryl Sponsors Women in Cloud to Accelerate Economic Access for Women in Technology
“At Kyndryl we firmly believe that we’re stronger together and are thrilled to partner with WIC to further our Inclusion, Diversity and Equity (ID&E) mission and extend our impact to the WIC community of women technology entrepreneurs and professionals,” said Harish Grama, Global Cloud Practice Leader at Kyndryl.
Forbes: How To Create The Ideal Corporate ESG Program To Better Support Women
Corporate accountability has received a lot of attention from investors and consumers, and it’s looking more and more like ESG will become a staple in the future of corporate operations.
Avanade and Women in Cloud Announce Partnership to Promote Gender Inclusion in Technology
Avanade and Women In Cloud (WIC), an economic development organization dedicated to advancing gender inclusion in technology, today announced their partnership to advance gender inclusion in technology through innovative networking and recruiting initiatives.
Women in Cloud Launches First-of-it’s-Kind Corporate ESG Women’s Leadership Accelerator
Next Generation Corporate ESG Women’s Leadership Accelerator.
Women in Cloud Announces the 2022 #empowHERaccess Award Winners
The empowHERaccess awards are a unique opportunity for women tech professionals to recognize those who have created access for them.
#WICxINSPIRE2022: Driving the Cloud Hyperscaler Partnership Revolution Among Women Tech Founders
WIC is on a mission to put women tech founders at the forefront of the Cloud Hyperscaler cosell partnership revolution by designing the WICxINSPIRE 2022 event to provide tech founders and leaders with the actionable insights they need to effectively co-build, co-market and co-sell with hyperscalers.
Women belong in tech – celebrating innovation in our industry (Microsoft Feature)
On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the potential of women and girls everywhere, and their ideas and innovations that are shaping our future. March is also Women’s History Month in the United States. Introduced in the late 1980s, this month is a celebration of the numerous, but often overlooked, accomplishments by women across history, culture and society. This is a time to reflect — and keep working to close equity gaps.
Seizing the opportunities of an inclusive economy (Microsoft Feature)
March is a time to reflect on the lives of women and girls around the globe with International Women’s Day celebrated on March 8 and Women’s History Month lasting all month in the United States. This year, I’m reflecting on how the COVID-19 pandemic has had major and uneven economic impact: 97 million people have fallen below the US$1.90 international poverty line since 2019, and 163 million more people are living on less than US$5.50 a day. These newly impoverished people are more likely to be women, children, and unskilled and informal workers.
WIC Portfolio Company Fyrii.ai, Developer Ecosystem Platform secures $450K by Right Side Capital Management
Fyrii is a unique developer ecosystem that enables technical experts and commercial organizations to launch and monetize their digital products at scale. With their latest funding from Right Side Capital, Fyrii will be able to accelerate its web3 capabilities and expand the platform’s footprint as an “innovation-as-a-service” model.
Women in Cloud: Creating a global network for economic access
As a woman, proving myself as not only capable but an expert in the field was a higher mountain to climb. Even today, high school girls my daughter’s age still think of tech as a man’s world. There is a critical need for influencers who will use their voice and position to elevate a new generation of innovators, leaders, and entrepreneurs.
Women in Cloud Center of Excellence Opens in India in Partnership with RV College of Engineering to Accelerate Cloud Talent Pipeline
Inaugurated on March 16th, 2022, named the Women in Cloud Center of Excellence in India, is designed to accelerate women and allies access to digital skilling, technology innovation and job placement by leveraging public-private partnerships.
Women in Cloud (WiC) Partners with Hello Alice to Launch “As-A-Service” Business Model Guides.
The global cloud computing market will reach $947 billion in 2026. It’s time to get in on it. Access the free WIC Cloud Solution Building suite of how-to guides. Available now in the USB Project Entrepreneur Community, each of these five step-by-step guides is ready to walk you through expert tips and insights. Between these and offer helpful tools, you will be able to bring your cloud-based idea to life — and to market!
Women in Cloud Partners with Coursera and Microsoft to Launch Additional 500 Scholarships Providing In-Demand Skills Training Towards Microsoft Azure Certification
Women in Cloud (WiC) is excited to announce through our collaboration with Microsoft and Coursera, it will distribute an additional 500 scholarships towards Microsoft Azure training and certification to those who have been affected by the pandemic and who are looking to join the tech workforce.
X0PA AI raises $4.2 million in series a funding to scale AI-Powered objective B2B hiring & selections solution
The world’s most objective hiring and selections platform plans to expand globally and innovate further with cutting-edge AI.
Two Insight Executives Earn WICxAllies Awards as Advocates of Women in Tech
Insight CFO Glynis Bryan honored with Advocate Award for fostering supplier diversity and Insight Canada’s John Dathan receives Overall Allies Award for advancing women in leadership
Third Annual Women in Cloud Day Celebrated with the Adoption of Bill 8637
Led by Senator Patty Kuderer of the 48th Legislative District, the Bill acknowledges Women in Cloud’s continuous achievements and international growth within the last year, including the increasing popularity of the WIC Annual Summit.
Insight Marketing Leader Protexter Named to Women in Cloud Board
Amy Protexter, Insight SVP of Marketing, will carry forward the company’s charter to collectively foster a diverse and inclusive environment to Women in Cloud’s gender-equity mission
Coursera and Microsoft collaborate to launch Microsoft Azure Fundamentals Specialization
A significant gender gap exists in cloud-based roles, with women accounting for only 12% of cloud computing workers worldwide. To help address this, Microsoft has partnered with Women in Cloud to provide over 600 scholarships for eligible Women in Cloud members in the US. Scholarship recipients will receive free access to the new Azure Fundamentals Specialization as well as Microsoft’s upcoming AI Fundamentals Specialization and Data Fundamentals Specialization, both scheduled to launch later in May.
#WICxALLIES 2022: Women in Cloud celebrates the first wave of Women in Tech Allies
The WICxALLIES Awards celebrates the achievements of three leaders who are building for inclusion through their everyday actions to bring more women into their network, organization and leadership roles.
WICxALLIES Award Winners for 2022:
Overall Allyship Award – John Dathan – General Manager and Senior Vice President, Insight Canada
Sponsor Award – Nathan Chung – Senior Consultant, Azure Cloud & AI, Microsoft
Advocate Award – Glynis Bryan – CFO, Insight Canada
Chaitra Vedullapalli Named As Forbes 1000 NEXT Entrepreneur
The Forbes Next 1000 list shines light on the ambitious sole proprietors, self-funded shops and pre-revenue startups in every region of the country—all with under $10 million in revenue or funding and infinite drive and hustle. Forbes and their partners at Square are thrilled to welcome Chaitra Vedullapalli to the Forbes Next 1000 class of 2021.
#WICxAnnualSummit 2022 Recognized by Bizzabo – 2022 Women In Tech Conferences: Empowering Events
Ready for the most authoritative list of 2022 women in tech events on the internet?
The number of women in tech events have been increasing year over year, further highlighting the importance of a more inclusive culture in tech. Especially given the findings our recent gender study, which found that 70% of event speakers are male.
We’ve established a thorough directory of the most prominent women in tech conferences happening in 2022. These events focus on empowering women through conferences that help attendees learn new skills, make valuable connections, discuss innovative trends, promote intersectionality, and access motivational leaders.
Women in Cloud Summit 2022 Will be a Harbinger of the Future for Gender Equity and Inclusive Tech Innovation
Women In Cloud 4th Annual Summit 2022 sees a stronger representation and focus by Fortune Brands and Emerging Companies To Influence Gender Equity and Inclusive Tech Innovation.
Women in Cloud and Indiaspora Launch Community Fundraising Campaign to Support Women in India
The campaign will raise funds to stabilize women and families impacted by COVID-19 who might otherwise fall into a cycle of poverty.
Women in Cloud, Microsoft, Coursera and IAMCP Partner to Provide Azure Training and Certification Scholarships to Women in India
Launches #empowHERfamily initiative to create a digital skilling ecosystem to skill Women in India for in-demand Cloud Jobs.
Women Technology Entrepreneurs Report Devastating Financial, Economic and Emotional Impacts of COVID-19
Read more about the impacts of COVID-19 on women technology entrepreneurs in 2021 and necessary steps Women in Cloud is taking to address these challenges.
Insight Unites with Women In Cloud to Accelerate Workplace Diversity in Technology
By joining the #WICxFortune100 Initiative, Insight deepens its commitment to strengthening a partner network built on diversity and inclusion
Women in Cloud Appoints Accenture’s Gina Fratarcangeli to its Board of Directors
Women in Cloud, a community-led economic development organization dedicated to advancing gender equity in the technology industry, has named Gina Fratarcangeli, Managing Director at Accenture, to its Board of Directors.
In this role, Fratarcangeli will be among a core team of advisors and influencers helping the not-for-profit organization drive its mission to generate $1B in net new global economic access for women entrepreneurs by 2030 through partnerships with corporations, community leaders and policy makers.
Women in Cloud, in partnership with M12 and IBM, honors eight role models at the inaugural #empowHERaccess Awards Ceremony
The #empowHERaccess Inaugural Awards celebrates the achievements of 8 winners who facilitated economic access and recovery for women affected by the COVID-19 pandemic and recognizes the contributions to the cloud ecosystems made by both individuals and organizations. The awards are supported by corporate and private brands such as M12, IBM, Microsoft, Accenture, Boeing, Insight and others.
Women In Cloud was named one of the Best Accelerators in Seattle by Benzinga
Women in Cloud is proud to announce that we have been recognized as the Best Women-Led Businesses Accelerator in Seattle by Benzinga Magazine. The “10 Best Accelerators in Seattle, Ranked” article highlights 10 local accelerators with different niches which provide access to training, funding, mentorship, and scaling for startups in a variety of industries. These accelerators were named the best because of their involvement in the local community, transparency, and implementation of practical standards. Women in Cloud was named top 7 overall and the best for female entrepreneurs because of its emphasis on using cloud hyperscalers, distribution channels, and partner resources to help women co-build, co-market, and co-sell to businesses.
Top 10 Most Successful Women in Cloud Entrepreneurs 2021 featured on Insight Success magazine.
The Insight Success Magazine has recognized the Women in Cloud Accelerator and the entrepreneurs who graduated from the Accelerator and went ahead to make an impact in society. The “Top 10 Most Successful Women in Cloud Entrepreneurs” Edition honors 10 women entrepreneurs from the technology industry who are shaping the future of the industry with their unique solutions. Checkout the Top 10 Most Successful Women in Cloud Entrepreneurs 2021 featured on Insight Success magazine.
The Urgent Need to Create Inclusive Access for Women to Join the Technology Industry
Women in Cloud partners with VFI to advance policy reforms around economic access and opportunities for women. There is an estimated $700 billion opportunity for enterprise cloud solutions, but fewer than 1% of enterprise cloud contracts globally go to tech firms founded by women. Women, tech companies, and enterprise tech customers are held back because of the lack of diversity in the tech sector. Research has shown that more diverse teams leads to greater creativity, innovation, and ultimately, profitability. Tech is missing the leadership, expertise, creativity, perspective, and passion of women. This week Voices for Innovation featured a guest blog to discuss the ongoing challenges that women face in accessing the tech sector. We showcased a great new VFI-supported WIC Azure Training and Certification Scholarship program that you may want to share this program with women looking to upskill or enter the tech sector.
Hitachi Solutions Partners with Women in Cloud Activate Economic Access Movement Among Fortune 100 Companies
Hitachi is supporting the #WICxFortune100 Initiative, a turnkey equity access program for Fortune 100 corporations to come together to collectively solve gender-equity challenges. Women in Cloud is committed to developing the next generation of women entrepreneurs and leaders in the field of cloud computing, to lead initiatives around cloud computing for gender parity; by supporting the #WICxFortune100 Initiative, Hitachi is committed to supporting the growth of the global economy through the advancement of gender inclusion.
A New Partnership is in Town! Women in Cloud and SHEROES Join Forces to Create Economic Impact
The pandemic brought out a new digital lifestyle we are all forced to embrace, while uncertainty and chaos looms over our heads. But as everybody is accepting the new normal, we have some exciting news to share. Women in Cloud and SHEROES are announcing a collaborative partnership to advance women tech founders and leaders in India to drive economic development goals.
Women In Cloud Partners With Innovation Women Visibility Bureau
“What makes Women in Cloud powerful is our community. By sharing our stories, we inspire innovation. By banding together, we change laws. By leveraging our personal networks, we create new opportunities. It is through collective action that we will help women entrepreneurs access $1 billion in economic access by 2030,” said Chaitra Vedullapalli, WiC co-founder and president.
Smart apparel startup B’zT wins Women in Cloud #CloudInnovateHer Pitch Challenge
The panel of judges voted for the final winner among the 11 women-led companies based on the originality of the idea, market feasibility, and use of cloud and AI in the technology solution.
Smart apparel startup B’zT that makes machine-washable tracking devices embedded in kid-friendly T-shirts and patches won the inaugural #CloudInnovateHer Pitch Challenge organized today (May 1) as a digital event by Women in Cloud, a global organization engaged in helping women tech entrepreneurs develop, showcase and win enterprise customers.
Women in Cloud kicks off New York cohort of Microsoft Cloud Accelerator
Build an enterprise-ready cloud business with Women in Cloud Accelerator
Did you know, Wendy Garcia Chief Diversity Officer at NY Comptroller’s office presented a proclamation on Jan 25th, 2020 to support Women In Cloud as a strategic program for advancing women tech entrepreneurs in New York. To advance the women tech entrepreneurs, WIC is launching cloud accelerator, 6-month program to assist women-led tech companies to strategically partner with Microsoft and their channel partners to get you ready to win enterprise opportunities in the private and public sector.
Drum Roll! Inaugural Global #CloudInnovateHER Pitch Challenge Winner: Automaton
Women in Cloud, is pleased to announce “Automaton” as the winner for the Inaugural #CloudInnovateHER Pitch Challenge. This pitch challenge was designed to showcase enterprise solutions developed by women tech entrepreneurs.
Announcing the finalists for the inaugural Women In Cloud #CloudInnovateHER Pitch Challenge
Women In Cloud is pleased to announce the 5 finalists for the Inaugural #CloudInnovateHER Pitch Challenge. This pitch challenge aims to help women tech entrepreneurs across the global market develop, showcase, and win enterprise customers.
Women in Cloud Summit 2020-The UN of Cloud Brands, Entrepreneurs, Technologists, Policy Makers & Global Leaders
Women in Cloud (WiC), a community-led economic development initiative supporting and promoting the growth of women in technology and entrepreneurial ventures, is hosting the annual Women in Cloud Summit 2020 at Microsoft Conference Center – Building 33, Redmond, Washington on January 25, 2020.
Women in Cloud Announces Second Annual Summit
Today the Women in Cloud organization announced the second annual Women in Cloud Summit. With the theme of “Accelerate,” this year’s Summit connects women-led cloud companies directly with cloud industry leaders to provide access to acceleration programs and opportunities to participate in thought-leadership sessions that support their business growth. Hosted on January 26th, 2019 in Redmond Washington, the Women in Cloud Summit call for speakers is now open.



















































































































