Fast 50 Comes to Belfast

-2010 Deloitte Fast 50 Technology Awards now open for entries

-11^th Annual Technology Awards to take place in Belfast this year

The local technology industry is being urged to use its 'home advantage' as entries open for the 2010 Deloitte Fast 50 Technology Awards, which this year will be held in Belfast's Europa Hotel on Friday 8^th October. The awards, now in their eleventh year, recognise and rank indigenous technology companies - from all over the island of Ireland- with exceptional growth in turnover over the last five years.

15 NI firms made into last year's Fast 50 including e-learning provider for the public sector Learning Pool who picked up the Rising Star award. Deloitte is calling for more companies than ever to get 'on track' and make their mark on this year's all-island Fast 50 competition.

One of Learning Pool's founding directors Mary McKenna, commented on the company's Fast 50 experience: "2009 was an exciting year for us, and winning the Deloitte Fast 50 Rising Star award was the icing on the cake. We welcome the additional profile that the prestigious award brings and as part of our growth trajectory, we're still doubling revenue year on year"

The ranking will feature both private and public listed technology companies that have demonstrated innovative strategies, sound management practices and marketplace vision driving them to achieve the status of high-growth leaders. Details of how to enter the awards can be found at www.fast50.ie. The closing date for entries is Friday September 3rd.

Pictured with David Crawford, Partner at Deloitte Belfast, is Mary McKenna, founding director of Learning Pool (right) and Lisa McGonigle, senior marketing executive Learning Pool (left).