Nonprofit women’s tech community Girls in Tech is closing its doors after 17 years, according to a newsletter from founder Adriana Gascoigne.
Gascoigne said the decision was made with “sadness and devastation” and was not taken lightly.
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the closure of Girls in Tech. This decision was not taken lightly, and the sadness and devastation we feel cannot be overstated,” Gascoigne wrote. “For 17 incredible years, we have provided a welcoming community of empowerment, support, and inspiration for women in tech. Together, we have had a profound impact, helping women reach for the stars and excel in their careers, while working tirelessly to close the gender gap in tech globally.”
The group has reached more than 250,000 people in 35 chapters in 30 countries on six continents. It was founded in Silicon Valley, but Gascoigne moved the group to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2022 during the pandemic. I’ve interviewed her numerous times about the group’s mission and goals, and how it’s become more relevant in the fight against Silicon Valley’s “toxic culture.”
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“Girls in Tech has always been more than just an organization; it’s a community built on love – love of technology and love of each other. The passion to support, encourage and inspire one another is what truly sets us apart. I am incredibly proud of what we have built together and the lasting impact we have had,” Gascoigne said in the newsletter.
The group’s programs included a mentorship program, hackathons, coding bootcamps, the Girls in Tech conference, a startup challenge, a global classroom, a podcast, a blog, a job board, and a boutique. The group hosted thousands of in-person and virtual events, producing educational and engaging content.
“I am deeply grateful to everyone who has poured their hearts into building this wonderful community where women in tech can express themselves, learn, grow and be celebrated for who they are,” said Gascoigne. “A special thank you to all of our members who have created such a friendly, warm and collaborative environment and culture; to the Executive Directors and Advisory Board teams who have led our chapters; to our head office staff who have managed and grown the organization; to our sponsors who have funded our programs and events; and to our Board of Directors.”
Without elaborating, Gascoigne concluded by saying, “While Girls in Tech is closing its doors, the movement we started must and will continue. I encourage each of you to continue the fight to close the gender gap in tech. Our mission will live on in other forms, driven by the same passion and commitment that has always defined us. I will miss you all deeply. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey.”
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