New flagship conference 'TechTides' to put Derry on the tech map

A major new technology and innovation conference, TechTides, is set to launch in Derry this autumn, positioning the city as a rising hub for innovation amid the island of Ireland’s growing tech and startup scene.

Taking place on Tuesday, November 18 2025 at the Millennium Forum, the one-day event will bring together startups, investors, technologists and business leaders from across the island. With a dynamic programme of keynote speakers, panels, workshops and founder stories, TechTides is designed to spark new ideas, forge meaningful connections, and drive practical progress.

Founded in 2025, TechTides was created to connect communities, accelerate innovation and shine a light on the untapped potential of the North West. With the ambition to build a lasting legacy beyond the day itself, the conference aims to establish Derry as a key hub for technology and entrepreneurship. The inaugural theme, ‘Where Innovation Flows’, will explore three core strands: AI & Data, Social Impact, and Founders & Startups.

TechTides is the brainchild of Alastair Cameron, Derry-based entrepreneur and formerly co-founder of Startacus, who saw a clear gap in the region’s innovation calendar.

Commenting on the launch, Alastair Cameron said: “Derry is the fifth largest city on the island of Ireland and has a rich cultural and creative identity. Yet, it has long lacked a standout tech event that both showcases the innovation already happening here and attracts fresh impetus from across the sector.

“TechTides is set to change that. This conference has the potential to be a true catalyst as we seek to build real momentum – connecting people, creating networks, and laying the groundwork for a lasting legacy in one of the island’s most exciting regions.”

A world-class speaker line-up has already been confirmed, including a Director at Microsoft, Hermione Way (former Head of Communications at Tinder), and Ross Hompstead (Director of Technology at ASOS). They’ll be joined by additional high-profile speakers to be announced in the coming weeks, alongside local founders and emerging technologists sharing their journeys and insights. The event will also put future talent centre stage, with dedicated sessions designed to inspire and engage the next generation of innovators.

TechTides is backed by a strong network of regional supporters, with Alchemy Technology Services and Ulster University confirmed as headline sponsors, reflecting their leadership in innovation and skills development across the North West. Gold Sponsors include Hurree, North West Regional College, Payroc, Allstate NI, Matrix NI, AVEVA, The AMP Derry, British Business Bank, Hightop and the William J. Clinton Leadership Institute, all aligned in their support for Derry's growth as a centre for tech and entrepreneurship.

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A growing list of Community Sponsors includes Metadeck, Londonderry Chamber of Commerce, Create the City, Adepta Partners, Satori Accounting, Tech NI Advocates, Awaken Hub and Awaken Angels. 

Visit techtides.co for ticket information and full programme details.