A major technology event will return to the Celtic Manor in June to bring together world-leading ICT experts with more than 1,100 delegates from the Welsh business and education sectors.
Following a successful first year in 2013, Digital 2014 will return with a new focus, including a day dedicated entirely to young people and technology.
The two-day event will bring global technology companies to Wales to share their insights on the cutting-edge trends underpinning the digital economy.
The first day (June 9) will focus on technology and education, giving around 500 young people, employers and educators from Welsh schools and universities a platform to voice their views on how they can contribute to the digital economy and how educators and employers can be flexible to maximise their potential.
Facilitated by technology outreach organisation TeenTech, the day will place into sharp focus issues including digital skills provision, women in technology, entrepreneurialism and innovation.
The second day (June 10) will focus on technology in industry and world-leading IT firms including IBM, HP and Logicalis will demonstrate how megatrends like Cloud, Mobility, Analytics and Security are transforming the way business is done across the globe.
As well as featuring keynote talks, workshops and seminars, a marketplace area will bring buyers and suppliers of all sizes together to facilitate new opportunities for business.
The full speaker line-up will be announced in the coming months. Last year’s event featured Ken Segall, who named the iMac, Young Rewired State CEO Emma Mulqueeny, and Sir Terry Matthews, among others.
Chair of the Welsh Government’s ICT Sector Panel, Tom Kelly, said: “Globally, the digital economy is hurtling forwards at lightning pace, with developments in ICT making their mark on all sectors of the economy and every part of our lives. Economies all over the world have woken up to the enabling power of ICT and it’s crucial that Wales remains ahead of the curve.
“Digital 2014 will help ensure a digital culture is positioned at the centre of Welsh education and industry to secure our economic future and position Wales at the very forefront of the digital revolution.”
Welsh Government Minister for Economy, Edwina Hart, said: “The ICT industry in Wales is a key sector that could generate a further £1.5bn to the economy over the next five years.
“Digital 2014 will provide a platform for ensuring businesses have the know-how to harness cutting-edge technologies to boost their bottom lines. The event will demonstrate the enabling power of ICT to ignite innovation and enthusiasm and offers an opportunity for Welsh businesses to hear from ICT players that are leading the digital charge.
“It will also demonstrate Wales’s credentials as an outward-looking, forward-thinking nation and a great place to locate a business.”
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