Goa aims to build innovation-driven AI ecosystem, announces return of tech conclave next year

Synopsis

The Goa AI Tech Conclave, which ended on Friday, will return in October 2027. The event aims to strengthen the state's artificial intelligence ecosystem and encourage new ideas and innovation, officials said.

Panaji: The Goa government plans to move forward with its AI Mission, support local talent and build a technology ecosystem that encourages innovation, officials said on Sunday.

As part of these efforts, the Goa AI Tech Conclave, which ended on Friday, will return in October 2027. The event aims to strengthen the state's artificial intelligence ecosystem and encourage innovation, officials said.

The two-day event was organised by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics and Communications. It included panel discussions, presentations by startups, training sessions to build skills, workshops for students, and exhibitions showing new technologies and digital solutions.

During the closing session, DS Prashant, CEO of the Software Technology and Incubation Park of Goa (SITPC), announced the next edition. He said the event would become a regular annual event on India's technology calendar.

"Goa is ready to lead. Building on the energy we witnessed this year, we are officially announcing the return of the Goa AI Tech Conclave in October 2027," he said.

On the second day, participants discussed how artificial intelligence could help communities deal with climate change and support sustainability. They also explored how AI could transform industries and help create businesses using next-generation technologies.

Over the two days, 14 startups presented their ideas to investors. These startups worked in areas such as software-as-a-service (SaaS), health technology, clean technology, tourism technology and AI products. Industry representatives gave them feedback, officials said.

Technology companies and organisations, including Google, Microsoft, Digital India and Bhashini, displayed their new technologies and digital solutions in the exhibition area. Training sessions with practical activities and workshops were also held for students and other participants, officials added.

At the conclave's opening session on Thursday, the Goa government announced its Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy 2026. It also launched a state-level hackathon to encourage the responsible use of AI, improve governance and create new economic opportunities.

The conclave ended with awards for the winners of various student competitions and challenges.