After exploring disruption and transformation, the 8th edition of MTL connect takes on the defining challenge of our decade: sovereignty. From October 13 to 16, 2026, join us at the Society for Arts and Technology (SAT) to rethink our digital future.
In a world where our lives are shaped by algorithms, platforms, and data, one fundamental question arises: who truly holds the reins? For its new edition, MTL connect invites the international community to reflect on a critical theme: how can we regain control over our infrastructures, our data, and our cultures?
Sovereignty: More Than a Technical Issue
Digital sovereignty goes far beyond geopolitics or data storage. It is an essential condition for the survival of our democracies and the vitality of our creative ecosystems. It means deciding who designs technologies, who governs them, and, most importantly, who ultimately benefits from them.
Far from being a retreat into isolation, this pursuit of sovereignty is a lever for responsible innovation and social justice. It represents our collective ability to understand, decide, and act in an environment shaped by artificial intelligence.
Four Pillars to Rethink Our Impact
Under the broad banner of SOVEREIGNTY, the 2026 program is structured around four powerful thematic pillars:
1. Artificial Intelligence: Taking Back Control
Beyond the race for performance, who sets the rules of the game? This pillar will explore ways to turn algorithms into ethical and transparent tools, genuinely serving the common good and local talent.
2. Culture and Creativity: Shining Despite the Giants
In the face of standardization imposed by global platforms, how can we protect our diversity? Discussions will address discoverability, fair compensation for creators, and the impact of generative AI on the arts.
3. Cybersecurity and Digital Identity: Building Trust
Our digital infrastructures are the foundation of our democracy. Protecting our data and digital identities must be treated as a fundamental right to ensure collective resilience.
4. Territories and Humanities: Grounding Digital Technology in Reality
Digital technology must strengthen social ties. How can communities and citizens use technology to create public services that are more human, inclusive, and adapted to local realities?
A Must-Attend Event in Montreal
From October 13 to 16, 2026, the Society for Arts and Technology (SAT) will become the hub of this collective reflection. MTL Connect will bring together researchers, creators, decision-makers, and innovators to turn ideas into concrete action.
Digital technology should no longer be something we endure, but a tool we control.
