Driven by its mission to advance solutions that improve the human condition, the Institute is launching a new public annual event to explore the opportunities and risks created by the world's most transformative technologies. The inaugural edition, named Avant South, will be held Sept. 28-29. Each year, Avant South will welcome thought leaders and diverse voices to Atlanta to discuss and explore a theme, based on emerging trends and issues, related to technological advancements and their social, economic, political, and business impact.
This year's theme is artificial intelligence (AI) and its responsible stewardship. The event will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and more. The goal is to create an experience for all levels of professionals and entrepreneurs to interact with speakers, researchers, industry leaders, and one another.
Topics will include AI in education, healthcare, arts and culture, and industry, as well as the role of regulatory and governmental oversight. The event will also feature a technology expo in which students and faculty from colleges and universities across metro Atlanta, along with corporations, can present research and applications of AI.
Avant South is part of InnovATL, a citywide platform that amplifies the voices of metro Atlanta entrepreneurs, innovators, and creators. This year's edition is scheduled to take place during the first week of a monthlong celebration of Atlanta's innovation ecosystem - between Venture Atlanta, one of the nation's largest venture capital conferences, and the AC3 Festival, which honors hip-hop culture and the city's impact in music, technology, and entertainment.
"Georgia Tech is committed to being a trusted public voice that informs decision-makers on how to leverage technology to find new solutions to the most consequential issues and opportunities we face," said Georgia Tech President Ángel Cabrera. "Avant South is intended to connect our world-class expertise with our local and global community of decision-makers, catalyze creative and critical conversations, and empower responsible leadership around technological tools that can make a real difference."
Additional information about the event, including speakers, expo participants, and registration, will be made available soon.
