Every year our partner Digital Innovation Hub in Transilvania (DIH) holds the IQ DIGITAL Summit to showcase what European Initiatives and projects such as AI-PRISM could bring in form of benefits, opportunities and know-how to the regional industry and society. This event was co-organised by our partner along with Upgrade 100 and sponsored by Romanian Commercial Bank and Vodafone.
The event from the IQ DIGITAL series, which took place at Cluj-Napoca on June 14, 2023, has truly left its mark on every front, setting remarkable records in multiple aspects. With over 3,000 applications received, it boasted the highest number of registration requests to date. This enthusiasm translated into a record-breaking attendance, with 1,265 participants present throughout the day. Moreover, the event featured an impressive lineup of 23 distinguished experts who shared their insights on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation topics.
The core mission of the IQ Digital Summit is aligned with AI-PRISM’s mission of empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with invaluable and practical know-how from global and local experts in digitalization and technology in their country, Romania. This event provides essential tools to expedite the digital transformation process within businesses, serving as a bridge between cutting-edge technologies and SMEs. Beyond knowledge-sharing, IQ Digital Summit also offers ample networking opportunities, facilitating the cultivation of new business relationships. This event is not just a summit; it’s a catalyst for growth and innovation in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
What were the highlights of the Summit?
Human vs. Robot
The IQ Digital Summit Cluj kicked off with a surprise addition to the lineup – the robot ESCU. However, it quickly became evident that ESCU was experiencing stage fright, stumbling over words due to nervousness.
Hello, Cluj-Napoca!
Drăgoș Stanca, the founder of IQ Digital Summit, who once called Cluj home, set the stage for the event. He infused his opening remarks with personal anecdotes from his college days and early career in local journalism. Among other things, he elucidated the mission of IQ DIGITAL and underscored the importance of stepping out of our daily routines to envision the future. This exercise was one he undertook alongside the team at the “Clujeanul” weekly newspaper, which he led two decades ago.
Three top international speakers
The event featured three internationally renowned speakers: Paul Roetzer, Olivia Gamblin, and Martin Ford.
Paul Roetzer, the first international speaker and author of three influential books in the marketing and communications industry, discussed the astonishing pace of developments in Artificial Intelligence. During a four-hour flight between Ohio and California, AI-generated more news articles than had been published in an entire decade during the technology’s early days. This rapid evolution prompted him to revise his conference presentation during the flight.
Olivia Gamblin, a “tech ethicist,” addressed the importance of ethics in Artificial Intelligence. She highlighted that technological ethics involve managing the risks associated with technology, which can bring both progress and potential drawbacks.
Futurist and bestselling author Martin Ford’s intervention was a standout moment at IQ DIGITAL Summit Cluj. He firmly believes that Artificial Intelligence will one-day rival human intelligence.
Digitalination – How Ciugud Municipality is dealing with the technology era
Another event highlight was the “Digitalination” section, which featured Gheorghe Damian, the mayor of Ciugud, the most digitized rural community in Romania. Damian emphasized that not computers but the lack of databases pose challenges in local administration. He made a memorable appearance, stepping out from behind the screen after a segment showcasing his community’s achievements.
Tech Made in Transilvania Panel
A significant highlight was the local segment, “Tech Made in Transilvania,” moderated by Bianca Muntean, the coordinator of The European Digital Innovation Hub in Transilvania, which focused on the local ecosystem and potential improvements. This panel included participants from the business and academia sectors.
What are the main outcomes of the Summit?
When we talk about outcomes, TEDIHT aimed to bring an event of this magnitude to the North-Western region of Romania and its industry representatives, and we can proudly say that we succeeded. TEDIHT co-organized this event successfully alongside incredible teams of Upgrade 100 and Romanian Commercial Bank, raising awareness about the benefits and opportunities Artificial Intelligence can bring to the industry and society.
As a recognized EDIH and a valued partner in numerous European initiatives, AI-PRISM included, DIH are committed to bringing tangible opportunities to European businesses. Their mission revolves around harnessing the transformative potential of AI to meet the unique needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and to foster its positive impact on society as a whole. With a focus on education, collaboration, and innovation, we aim to pave the way for a future where AI enhances industries and enriches lives.
The participants considered this a fantastic event, with real know-how and beneficial information. The most appreciated event moment was the Digitination section with the mayor of Ciugud, and Paul Roetzer was the most-voted speaker at IQ Digital Summit Cluj, according to the feedback questionnaire.
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