The Bhutanese Leading the way.
The Bhutan Innovation Forum (BIF) is set to launch on 1 October 2024, at the stunning Dungkar Dzong in Pangbisa, Paro.
The three-day event will bring together over 100 distinguished speakers, some 90 international experts and more than 10 speakers from Bhutan, all focused on promoting sustainable development and mindful entrepreneurship.
The forum aims to unite leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs from around the globe to support Bhutan’s ambitious vision of establishing a Mindfulness City at Gelephu.
Throughout the forum, participants will engage in dynamic workshops, networking opportunities, and interactive sessions designed to encourage ethical business practices, eco-friendly innovation, and the preservation of Bhutanese culture.
By blending modern technology with Bhutanese traditions, the forum seeks to inspire holistic growth and environmental stewardship. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Himalayas, the event will explore innovative city design while fostering a culture of mindfulness.
Nine prominent speakers will share their insights at the upcoming event. Among them is Joseph E. Stiglitz, a renowned economist and professor at Columbia University, who co-chairs a key OECD group on economic performance.
Richard J. Roberts, Chief Scientific Officer at New England Biolabs, is recognized for his contributions to organic chemistry.
Nobel Prize-winning physicist Sir Constantin Novoselov serves as a professor at the National University of Singapore.
Nicholas Stern, an influential economist and climate expert, holds significant roles at the London School of Economics and the Grantham Research Institute.
Evan Spiegel, CEO of Snap Inc., co-created Snapchat, which now boasts over 800 million users.
Dzongsar Jamyang Khyentse Rinpoche, a notable Buddhist teacher, has deep ties to various traditions.
Former Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, worked to end decades of civil conflict in his country.
Robert Friedland is a recognized figure in the mining industry, known for discovering major mineral deposits.
Muhammed Aziz Khan leads Summit Power International, Bangladesh’s largest infrastructure conglomerate.
The event will be moderated by senior BBC journalists Samantha Simmonds and Mark Lobel. Additional speakers include Nesma Bensalem, Moran Cerf, Matthieu Ricard, and Nakarin Wanakijpaibul, along with Bhutanese representatives Dasho Kinley Dorji and Chewang Rinzin.
The agenda is divided into three distinct days, each focused on crucial themes. The first day will center around Mindfulness and Innovation, with discussions covering a range of topics, including philanthropy, society, architecture, education, and future trends.
On the second day, the focus shifts to Innovation and Entrepreneurship, where speakers will delve into areas such as technology, the economy, blockchain, and artificial intelligence.
The final day will tackle Entrepreneurship and Sustainability, featuring in-depth conversations about climate change, energy resources, sustainable finance, and natural capital accounting.
In addition to the insightful talks, the forum will showcase engaging exhibitions from various stakeholders. These exhibitions will offer hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and displays, enriching the overall experience for participants.
By fostering connections among investors, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads, the Bhutan Innovation Forum is poised to unveil exciting tech startups and business opportunities within Bhutan’s green ecosystem, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to economic, social, and environmental sustainability.
The Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) is an initiative envisioned by His Majesty The King, designed to be a haven for global businesses and professionals who value sustainability, spiritual wellness, and commercial achievement. The project is grounded in the “Building with Nature” philosophy, ensuring that structures harmoniously blend with their natural surroundings.
GMC embodies values aligned with Bhutanese traditions, emphasizing holistic well-being, peace, sustainability, and happiness. It aims to attract the global business community by offering a unique environment that prioritizes both economic growth and the well-being of individuals and communities.
The development of the Mindfulness City will occur in phases, each featuring enhanced infrastructure and institutional growth. The first phase includes the construction of a new international airport (which commenced on 23 December), improvements in logistical and digital connectivity, and initiatives to upskill Bhutanese professionals.
GMC will be underpinned by world-class infrastructure that merges cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices. With an international airport, advanced rail systems, and top-notch digital connectivity, all powered by 100percent renewable energy, GMC aims to create an ecosystem where both life and business can thrive in harmony with nature.
This event promises to be a transformative gathering, setting the stage for meaningful discussions and collaborations that could shape the future of innovation in Bhutan and beyond.
