On September 27, 2024, Burgas Digital 2024 brought together nearly 200 professionals from the technology sector, academia and the public sector. The conference was not just a forum for discussions on topics such as artificial intelligence and green innovations through AI, but also a platform that solidified Burgas as the digital center of Bulgaria.
The opening was marked by the presence of Dimitar Nikolov (Mayor of Burgas), Zornitsa Rusinova (Chairman of the Economic and Social Council), and Todor Mladenov (Sofia Tech Park). They congratulated those gathered on the successes achieved by the region’s digital ecosystem. A special speech was delivered by Petko Georgiev – founder and chairman of ICT Cluster Burgas and DIGIHUB, who emphasized the importance of cooperation between local authorities, academia and business:
“The digital ecosystem we have built here is not only the result of our vision for the future. It is a symbol of our common ambition to transform Burgas into a technological center of international importance. 8 years since the creation of ICT Cluster Burgas and 4 years since the founding of DIGIHUB prove that together we can achieve much more.”
Burgas Digital 2024 included a keynote lecture by Dobroslav Dimitrov (BRAIT), who looked at the future of artificial intelligence and the transformation of industries. Panel discussions focused on topics such as Green Innovation through AI and Innovation in the Public Sector, where leading experts discussed specific solutions and opportunities for developing digital infrastructure in the region.
The event also offered two workshops with the Ministry of Innovation and Growth (MIR), which were extremely useful for clusters and digital hubs. The participants received valuable information about the upcoming signing of contracts between the hubs and the ministry in October, as well as the upcoming cluster funding program until the end of the year.
The conference ended with a celebration on the occasion of the 8th anniversary of ICT Cluster Burgas, which included solemn congratulatory addresses from AIBEST, BRAIT and ICT Cluster Varna. Guests enjoyed a festive cake, music and dancing on the terrace of Central Park, where Petko Georgiev welcomed everyone with the words:
“We are lucky to share our successes with so many partners and members. This is a tradition that connects us and makes us look forward to new opportunities.”
Burgas Digital 2024 once again showed that Burgas is on its way to establishing itself as a digital center not only in Bulgaria, but also internationally.
