Philly is full of innovative people building cool tech and sharing it with their communities.
Every year, we highlight these individuals, recognizing their work on our RealLIST Innovators list.
After collecting nominations and reviewing our reporting, we curated a list of 15 technologists, scientists, developers and engineers making a difference. We also sent a survey asking them to share their journeys, what work they’re most proud of and what they love about Philly tech.
This year’s list includes developers creating useful open-source projects, researchers making discoveries in cancer, AI pros and technologists who are active in the local scene. Check out the honorees who came before them on our past lists in reverse chronological order: 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020 and 2019.
Meet this year’s RealLIST Innovators below.
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