MTL connect 2024 : digital metamorphosis in the heart of Montreal
Montreal, October 8, 2024 – The 6th edition of MTL connect, organized by Printemps numérique, will take place from October 15 to 18, 2024 at the NAD-UQAC School in Montreal. This international event, focusing on the challenges and issues of the digital revolution, will honor the theme of “Metamorphosis”. 
It will explore key issues such as artificial intelligence, digital culture, cybersecurity, education and digital inclusion. This year, France will be in the spotlight, bringing its innovations and reflections on the impact of digital technology on our lives.
Mehdi Benboubakeur, General Manager of Printemps Numérique, shares his vision:
“This year, we aim to fuel dialogue on the ways in which technology can truly improve our societies. By placing people at the center of this transformation, we want to create a space where digital innovation fosters a more inclusive and sustainable future. MTL connect is much more than a technology event: it’s a platform for reflection, collaboration and business development. By bringing together brilliant minds from around the world, we aim to empower everyone to actively participate in the digital metamorphosis underway.”
Artificial intelligence at the heart of programming
Now in its 6th year, MTL connect invites participants to the MTL connect Showcase on October 15. This day is an opportunity to discover and interact with community players. Entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs and project managers from start-ups, SMEs and NPOs will meet with some thirty companies where projects at various stages of development will be presented in 4-minute pitches. Two opening morning conferences will be hosted by Hugues Bersini, who will talk about the impact of AI on creativity and education, and Ana Semedo, who will discuss the challenges of responsible AI.
A 5@7 networking event will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas with professionals and expand your network. The day will showcase innovations and open up new horizons.
On October 16, debates on artificial intelligence will cover recent advances as well as ethical and governance challenges, followed by the North American premiere of the film Pourquoi encore penser? À l’heure de l’intelligence artificielle, in the presence of one of its main protagonists, Hugues Bersini.
That day, sessions on culture and creativity will highlight the impact of technology on the cultural industries, with a talk by Anna Shvets, a researcher in generative AI, who will present AI techniques and uses in art and virtual reality.
On October 17, cybersecurity will be at the center of discussions, with conferences including one by expert Valérie Doye on data protection and digital threats. Last but not least, education and digital inclusion will be addressed in connection with bridging the digital divide and access to technologies.
An immersive journey into digital art and technological innovation
MTL connect also invites the public to plunge into a universe where art and technology meet to offer exceptional experiences. The program features an interactive tour of the NAD-UQAC School, techno-cultural visits to emblematic Montreal landmarks, and 360° projections in the immersive Dôme at Complexe Desjardins. This event highlights a rich diversity of artistic innovations, offering audiences the opportunity to explore the many facets of digital art.
A place for fruitful exchanges and collaborations
In addition to these reflections, MTL connect also fosters meetings and exchanges between professionals through networking sessions, speed meetings and thematic roundtables. A must-attend event for digital players, MTL connect will also host the MTL Tech Awards, which recognize the year’s most promising new technology projects.
An international event
This edition promises to be particularly rich in international perspectives, with the participation of foreign delegations and world-renowned speakers.
France is in the spotlight at this year’s 2024 edition of MTL connects, marking the continuation of the partnership with the French Consulate in Quebec City to address major issues within the French-speaking world, notably the discoverability of French-language cultural content. In addition, Printemps numérique is joining forces with the Centre Jacques Cartier, celebrating its 40th anniversary, to strengthen ties between the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and Quebec.
MTL connect 2024 is positioned as the benchmark event for those seeking to understand and influence the major technological transformations to come.
