#FollowITUSSecureTechnologies

Dr Clare Ryan is the founder of ITUS Secure Technologies, a company committed to safeguarding small businesses from cyber threats. Originally from Derry, she has called Donegal home for nearly 20 years. Passionate about equipping organisations with the tools and knowledge to navigate the digital world securely, Clare blends her scientific expertise with a mission to level the playing field for entrepreneurs facing digital risks. As an active member of the AwakenHub community, she shares her journey, challenges, and insights as a female founder in the tech industry. Read on to discover more about her story, values, and aspirations.

To get us started - how would you describe yourself in 6 words or less?

Problem solver who enjoys a laugh 😊

Tell us about your business and what inspired you to start it:

I’ve always been passionate about championing the underdog—those with big dreams but limited resources. I started this business because I’ve seen the impact of cybercrime on small businesses firsthand. It is devastating, impacting the business owner's confidence as well as being financially draining. I believe every small business owner deserves access to the tools and support needed to thrive in a digital world filled with bad actors. By levelling the playing field, we want to empower these businesses to overcome cyber challenges, manage their digital risk, and focus on serving their customers to achieve lasting success.

Tell us a little bit more about you:

I’m a scientist first and foremost—I love problem-solving. (I was that nightmare child that kept asking, "But why?") In my early career, I worked in science outreach for Ulster Uni and Queen’s, where I carried out virtual autopsies and set fire to things for fun. (I once made four people faint at one of my events 😟). Outside of work, I’m a rugby mum, supporting my son during his U16 matches #GoLKRFC. I’m also partial to baking the odd wedding or birthday cake.

Fill us in on your founder journey:

My founder journey to date has been a mix of challenges and triumphs. On the positive side, it’s empowering to have our business win awards and have our product recognised among our peers. However, the journey has often involved overcoming stereotypes and biases, such as being underestimated or not taken as seriously as male counterparts. Networking opportunities can be both rewarding and daunting, as the cybersecurity community is increasingly supportive but still heavily male-oriented. Ultimately, it’s a journey of resilience and agility, and I’m still learning how best to process advice and guidance so that I only take the useful information forward. 😉

How has being part of the AwakenHub community helped your business?

Being part of the AwakenHub community has connected me with experienced founders, many of whom have provided invaluable insights on scaling a tech startup—from managing commercial contracts to establishing a strong team culture. The network is incredibly supportive, and the online sessions have helped refine our strategy to drive ITUS Protect’s growth.

Why are you a member of AwakenHub?

I’ve been a member of AwakenHub for many years. The reason I stay in 'the club' is the connection with like-minded female founders who are always willing to share knowledge on growing a tech startup and support each other through both the highs and lows. The virtual format makes it easy to engage, so whether I’m travelling for work or dropping the kids at sport, I can keep in touch with the wider network easily and benefit from their insights and experiences.

What is your 'ask' for the AwakenHub community?

We’re looking for non-profits and charities who could benefit from some free cybersecurity solutions to try ITUS Protect for three months.

As a founder, what are your non-negotiables?

A welcoming workplace that enables team players to contribute without fear. Having worked in organisations where annual leave was used for caring responsibilities and where ownership of successful projects belonged to management only, I want my team to experience a different workplace. Our workload is task-oriented, offering flexibility to achieve a work-life balance that they choose.

Where do you see yourself in 12 months and 5 years?

• In 12 months: We will have grown the team by an additional five members, having secured an additional €2m in funding.

• In 5 years: I would like to be leading an international company with customers in Europe and the US. Our team will have grown significantly, and we will have attracted significant funding to support this growth. Our brand will be easily recognised and have a strong reputation amongst users.

If you attended SheVentures, how did you find this?

SheVentures was amazing—so inspirational talking with so many female trailblazers. It was incredible to see women truly championing each other—giving advice, opening their black book for connections, and cheering each other on—all without trying to get equity or looking for payment! I’m looking forward to this being an annual event.

You recently took part in the AwakenHub Trade Mission to the US – what did you take away from that experience?

The AwakenHub Trade Mission to the US was a whirlwind! Travelling with fellow female founders who were equally passionate and mission-driven made for such an energising experience. I realised just how supportive the Irish network abroad can be – from consulates to Enterprise Ireland, we had a solid team behind us. While accommodation in cities like New York and Boston was eye-wateringly expensive, the sheer volume of networking events, pitch opportunities, and relevant startup communities made it worthwhile. Preparation was key – knowing our goals ahead of the trip made our time on the ground much more focused. And perhaps the biggest takeaway? Relationships matter. The connections we made, both formal and informal, will have a long-term impact.

What are your top three tips for other women founders?

• It’s okay to be a caregiver and a founder—so there is no need to apologise if your newborn joins the Zoom call or you can’t have a meeting during school pick-up hours. Just own it.

• Timeboxing is a great skill to protect your mental health. Focus on one task at a time.

• Don’t waste energy on things you cannot control—focus on what you can control and change.

What are six words to live by?

Honesty, Integrity, Balance, Empathy, Hustle, Brave.

🔗 LinkedIn (Company): ITUS Secure Technologies
🔗 LinkedIn (ITUS Protect): ITUS Protect
🔗 LinkedIn (Personal): Dr Clare RyanDr
🐦 X (ITUS Tech): @ITUS_Tech
🐦 X (ITUS Protect): @ItusProtect