Atlantic Canadian Finalists: Toast Top 25 Women in Tech
The Top 25 Women in Tech award by Toast in partnership with BetaKit shines a spotlight on women shaking up the tech industry. This award is all about celebrating women who are not just succeeding but truly making a mark in tech. This year, four incredible fintech leaders from four Atlantic Canadian companies are among those we’re proud to cheer on.
ALICIA ROISMAN ISMACH, ATLANTIC FINTECH
Atlantic Fintech is the heartbeat supporting fintechs across Atlantic Canada, helping them to grow and reach global markets. Leading the charge is Alicia Roisman Ismach , our Head of Fintech. Alicia is a powerhouse with a track record of launching and scaling successful global fintechs, but beyond business, she’s a true community-builder. She bridges global fintech expertise with Atlantic Canada’s unique opportunities, fostering collaboration, mentorship, and diversity. With her inclusive leadership, international experience and passion for equity, Alicia is breaking down barriers, connecting founders with resources and networks, and driving real change. She’s a familiar face at major fintech events and a respected judge of national awards – proof of her lasting impact and inspiring dedication.
JANE CROWELL, PARTICLE CAPITAL
Particle Capital, based in Nova Scotia, fuels growth by connecting companies to capital markets, and Jane Crowell is the visionary CEO behind it all. Jane’s work is all about solving one of the toughest startup puzzles - fundraising. By linking Canadian founders with US investors, she frees entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best: building amazing products. Beyond the numbers, Jane is a fierce advocate for women in tech, mentoring female founders balancing their ambitions with family life. Her efforts create a more inclusive space where women can thrive and grow. She’s not just raising capital; she’s raising the fintech profile of Atlantic Canada and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
KATE FIRUZ, PAYTIC
PEI’s PayTic is transforming payment operations with smart automation, and Kate Firuz, their VP of Product, is driving innovation forward. Kate’s fintech journey is nothing short of inspiring: coming from a science background with immigrant roots, she’s one of the go-to experts in payments technology in Canada. She’s led innovations like card product launches and now is revolutionizing how banks manage payment operations, automating tedious manual tasks so teams can focus on growth. In a sector held back by outdated systems, Kate’s practical innovation is a game-changer, pushing the industry forward and empowering others to thrive.
RAJYALAKSHMI KOTAMRAJU, SNAPB2B
SnapB2B , a New Brunswick fintech success story, simplifies complex payable processes, with RajyaLakshmi (Rajya) Kotamraju at the helm as CTO. Rajya brings over 20 years of global tech experience – from India’s tech hubs to Wall Street – and now leads fintech innovation here at home. Her patented work in automation combined with strategic leadership is transforming payment orchestration and product strategy. Rajya is a passionate mentor and advocate for women in tech, committed to fostering diversity and collaboration. Her forward-thinking approach is contributing to Atlantic Canada becoming a global fintech hotspot as she continues to nurture talent and propel inclusive success.
These four remarkable leaders – Alicia, Jane, Kate, and Rajya – represent the vibrancy and strength of Atlantic Canada’s fintech community. They stand among many amazing women in the region who are fueling innovation, leading with heart, and showing the world what true tech leadership looks like.
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