Branching Out: Acorn and Innov8 take Crumlin Road Gaol by storm
What do you get when you combine an iconic venue, passionate speakers, cutting-edge tech, and a storm warning? Apparently, one of the best business technology events that neither torrential rain nor howling winds can stop.
Despite a government-issued weather red warning pending, customers—both seasoned veterans and new, turned up on Thursday 23rd January at the historic Crumlin Road Gaol – it might have been built to hold prisoners, but on this day, it was buzzing with freedom-of-thought as Acorn celebrated its journey and future alongside Innov8.
Dominic McMcullan kicked things off with a keynote that was equal parts inspiring and entertaining. With anecdotes about Acorn’s history, he captivated the audience while recounting the bold decision to join forces with Innov8. Dominic really made the Acorn-Innov8 partnership feel like the start of something truly special.
The spotlight then turned to Carl Maher, Innov8’s Managing Director, who shared what drives him and his team to keep pushing boundaries. This no-nonsense Q&A session struck a chord, as he spoke candidly about Innov8’s vision and its seamless alignment with Acorn’s values. Carl kept things refreshingly down-to-earth, proving you can talk business without sounding, well, “too business.”
“Innovation is the ability to see change as an opportunity – not a threat.” Steve Jobs (& Dominic McMullan)
No Sage Business Partner event is complete without a stellar guest appearance from Sage themselves, and Branching Out 2025 didn’t disappoint. Paul O’Riordan, VP & Head of Medium Business UKI, delivered a riveting talk on the economy, the future of Sage, and the sheer magic of partnerships. His presentation was equal parts insightful and energising, leaving attendees excited about what’s next for Sage (and their own businesses), including an up-close look at Sage’s AI: Sage Copilot (watch a preview of Sage Copilot here).
After a short recess, the event focus then turned to the breakout sessions – literally. Silent seminar headset technology had attendees toggling between channels like seasoned DJs and this innovative approach allowed multiple presentations to run simultaneously, giving everyone the chance to choose their focus ‘Your Business : Your Way’ without a single awkward cough interrupting the flow. We heard from technology partners such as Sicon, Draycir, Roveel, CIM, Codis, Phocas, Eureka and Webexpenses, as well as Innov8’s very own insight on the InnRange WMS solutions.
Smart Business
TD Synnex, Innov8’s Microsoft distributor and solutions advisors wowed the crowd with an electrifying session on maximising the capability of Microsoft 365, Business IT Security & Copilot. Followed by Chris Housecroft delivering a brilliant introduction to Sage Intacct, leaving attendees ready to embrace the platform’s power and potential.
In the penultimate session before lunch an interactive Q&A saw attendees sharing their thoughts and questions. Before Declan Bradley stepped up to deliver closing remarks that tied everything together with a bow—and a few laughs.
Declan captured the energy of the day perfectly, blending heartfelt thanks with lighthearted quips. His comments underscored the buzz in the room: Acorn and Innov8 are onto something big, and the synergy between their teams is impossible to ignore.
Lunch, Laughs and a Gaol Tour
After all the learning, everyone tucked into a well-deserved lunch before embarking on a guided tour of the historic Crumlin Road Gaol. Some might say the venue was an unusual choice, but the synergy between its storied past and Acorn’s innovative future was undeniable.
In the end, Acorn’s Branching Out event wasn’t just a gathering—it was a testament to resilience, innovation, and partnership. Rain and wind? Bring it on. With Acorn, Innov8 the future is bright, no matter the weather forecast.
