Delaware, let’s celebrate: You picked these 5 winners for your 2023 Technical.ly Awards

Voting was open for the 2023 Technical.ly Awards throughout the last 10 days of November. And during that time, you turned out, with over 8,000 votes logged across our markets.

It all started with a nomination process where you, the community, sent in nominations for Delaware in our five categories: Invention of the Year, Tech Community Leader of the Year, CTO of the Year, Tech Company of the Year and Culture Builder of the Year. From there, we built an amazing list of nominees.

We’re glad we at Technical.ly didn’t have to select the winners because it was an incredibly strong pool of nominees. Collectively, that group showcased how much talent, passion and hard work went on in Delaware’s tech ecosystem in 2023.

(While you’re here: Check out Technical.ly’s 2024 editorial calendar, featuring 12 themes we’ll dedicate extra reporting to in the new year, and consider nominating a person or company for one of our RealLISTs. RealLIST Startups returns at the top of the year!)

So, who won in Delaware? Without further ado, the winners are:

Invention of the Year — Toivoa

When founder Laura Randa learned telemedicine is not accessible to people with disabilities, she created this app designed for disabilities and social connection.

Tech Community Leader of the Year — Ryan Harrington and Hec Maldonado-Reis, Data Innovation Lab

This pair of technologists lead Tech Impact’s Data Innovation Lab, where they leverage data and technology for social good.

CTO of the Year — Francis Johnson, Tech Impact

Johnson oversees the delivery of all technology infrastructure projects, cybersecurity, compliance and support services for Tech Impact. His work focuses on helping nonprofits serve more constituents and communities efficiently and securely.

Tech Company of the Year — Compact Membrane Systems

Newport-based Compact Membrane Systems manufactures tech that aims to change the world by reducing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by chemical manufacturing plants by 95%.

Culture Builder of the Year — Shanais ‘Shana’ Hilliard, CSC

The diversity and belonging program leader at CSC, Hilliard is passionate, innovative and resilient, inspiring colleagues through her actions while helping to create brave and safe spaces for employees to grow together.