Technology and innovation? Essential for the future of Flanders! That’s why the Flemish government is once again organizing the Flanders Technology and Innovation (FTI) fair from March 16th to 21st, 2024. Ghent, with its historical significance, serves as the prime location: the event will take place at various venues in our city, including Flanders Expo.
History
In 1983, the inaugural edition of the biennial technology fair, Flanders Technology, took place. Over 100,000 visitors gathered in the Floraliënhal in Ghent’s Citadelpark to catch a glimpse of the future and witness Flanders’ successful emergence as a high-tech region.
It soon became evident that Ghent needed a larger and more modern exhibition infrastructure. Consequently, in 1987, the technology fair relocated to Flanders Expo, a purpose-built complex on the grounds of the recently closed Sint-Denijs-Westrem airport. Flanders Technology International was born!
At its peak, the fair attracted over 600,000 visitors. However, unable to keep pace with the rapid advancements in technology, Flanders Technology International ceased operations in 1999.
FTI 2024
Fast forward to today. With the relaunch of Flanders Technology and Innovation, the Flemish government aims to boost Flanders as an innovative knowledge region on the global stage. The focus is on tangible projects that improve the lives of every Flemish citizen. This happens across six domains: data technology, health, energy, mobility, entertainment, and lifelong learning. Ghent has chosen the theme of the booming bio & health tech scene.
Inspire health&care at Flanders Expo
FTI Gent joins forces with Inspire health&care, the platform for healthcare and welfare, taking place from March 19th to 21st, 2024, at Flanders Expo. Over three days, there will be keynotes and talks discussing relevant developments and innovations in health tech. Hilde Crevits, Vice Minister-President of the Flemish Government and Flemish Minister for Welfare, Public Health and Family, will ceremonially inaugurate the FTI stage. Additionally, speakers such as Lieven Scheire will address AI.
FTI Gent
Of course, there’s more. The recently renovated Ghent Wintercircus will host numerous keynotes and inspiring talks, guiding innovators through the fascinating world of bio & health tech. Guests can also indulge in culinary science fiction at the FTI restaurant, under the guidance of Michelin-starred chef Olly Ceulenaere. What’s more, explore the Expo by ArcelorMittal, immersing yourself in both the various levels and corners of the former circus building and vintage car cemetery, as well as the history of Flanders Technology & Innovation.
Not only in Ghent, but also in Kortrijk, Hasselt, Leuven, Brussels, and Antwerp several events take place in collaboration with various companies, schools, and universities. The closing festival will be held in Antwerp on Sunday, March 24th, 2024. For all information and tickets, visit
FTI Gent and
FTI Flanders.
