This page will be updated as speakers and panelists are confirmed. GEM25's opening reflections, keynote address, and panel discussions will be . Prepare for the conference by tuning in to our Road to GEM events, podcasts, and articles featuring conversations with leaders on the front lines of AI-related work in emerging economies.
GEM25: Catalyzing AI for Inclusive Change will examine current advancements in AI and their real-world applications across development sectors. We will address critical technical, governance, and ethical questions surrounding AI, exploring its transformative potential to drive – or setback – the next generation of economic growth and sustainable development.
April 29, 2025
All programming will be held at Harvard Business School's Spangler Center.
8:15am - Breakfast and Registration (The Williams Room)
9:00am - Opening Reflections from Harvard Leadership (Spangler Auditorium)
9:15am - Panel 1: What do Emerging Economies want from AI? (Spangler Auditorium)
This panel brings together policy and tech leaders from emerging economies to discuss their visions and objectives for AI integration within their national strategies and societies. Panelists will share insights on how AI can address pressing challenges in sectors such as healthcare, employment, and education while emphasizing the importance of aligning AI deployment with local needs and cultural contexts. The conversation will focus on the aspirations and prerequisites for AI to catalyze sustainable economic growth, equitable development, and digital sovereignty. By drawing on their unique experiences and challenges, these leaders will outline a roadmap for fostering innovation and collaboration that empowers emerging economies through AI.
11:15am - Fireside Chat (Spangler Auditorium)
12:00pm - Lunch (The Williams Room)
1:00pm - Panel 2: AI Innovations in Emerging Economies (Spangler Auditorium)
This panel assembles influential private sector and civil society leaders to explore the opportunities, aspirations, and objectives of AI developers and deployers in emerging markets globally. Panelists will discuss how AI innovators in their regions are driving business innovation, enhancing market efficiencies, and addressing local consumer needs while fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth. The dialogue will focus on the unique opportunities and challenges faced by businesses in developing and integrating AI technologies, emphasizing the role of collaboration with governments and communities. By sharing strategic insights and success stories, these AI leaders and promoters will highlight pathways to contribute meaningfully to the advancement and well-being of emerging economies through AI.
2:45pm - GEM Incubation Tables (The Williams Room)
The Incubation Tables during GEM25 will generate and explore early-stage collaborations between public and private sector leaders and be led by Harvard faculty on the GEM25 Scientific Committee in collaboration with leading practitioners.
Following the keynote address and panel sessions, GEM25 will divide participants into smaller groups that will participate in GEM Incubation Tables focused on one of several pressing topics. These “research-meets-practice" working sessions will explore early-stage ideas, encouraging participants to consider how cutting-edge research can address pressing problems and reimagine the boundaries of knowledge and action. Participants will be encouraged to develop collaborations they would subsequently submit to the GEM Incubation Fund for seed funding.
5:00pm - Closing Reflection and Reception (The Williams Room)
Guests are encouraged to continue conversations with new colleagues and friends over self-organized dinners in Harvard Square or greater Boston.