On October 7, 2024, the ICT Association of Georgia (ICTA) held its quarterly meeting at D Block, Stamba, marking a significant moment for Georgia’s technology sector. The event drew together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders, creating a vibrant forum for discussing the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the rapidly evolving technological landscape. With a shared commitment to innovation and collaboration, attendees engaged in meaningful dialogues to position Georgia as a leading player in the international ICT arena.
Setting the Stage for Collaboration
The meeting began with remarks from Tornike Sulaberidze, the Chairman of ICTA. “Today, we explore key issues concerning the future of the Georgian technology industry, including the role of the US tech companies in the local market, ” he stated, setting a tone for the day’s discussions. His emphasis on the need for cooperation was echoed by Ani Dabrundashvili, Director of D Block, who underscored the importance of creating an environment that fosters innovation and partnership among tech professionals.
Deep Dive into US-Georgia Relations
During the meeting, the day’s main event focused on the bilateral relations between the United States and Georgia. Giorgi Tsikolia, Vice President of Lineate, and Mr. Marc Nordberg from the US Embassy in Georgia led the discussion. Mr. Tsikolia emphasized the historical context of bilateral relations and the role of American capital in the Georgian economy, which has created thousands of well-paid jobs and promoted knowledge sharing and innovation. He noted that American technology companies have generated 8,000-9,000 new jobs over the past three years, contributing 2-2.5 billion GEL annually to the Georgian economy. Mr. Tsikolia highlighted the interconnectedness of the tech sector’s success with the United States, which serves as the primary export market for services provided by international companies in Georgia. These jobs pay salaries three times higher than the local average and have helped to establish Georgia on the global technology map.
Advancing AI and Innovation
The conversation shifted to artificial intelligence, moderated by Natia Sirbiladze, a Board member of the ICTA. Zaal Gachechiladze, CEO and Co-Founder of AI Lab, offered valuable insights into AI’s potential for transforming Georgia’s economy.
Championing Gender Diversity in Technology
Another meeting highlight was a presentation by Maria Voskanyan, Chapter Director of Women in Tech® Georgia. She discussed initiatives to promote gender diversity within the tech industry. “The tech sector thrives with diverse perspectives. We must empower women to take on leadership roles,” Voskanyan emphasized.
The meeting culminated in signing of two significant Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs). The first was between the ICTA and Women in Tech, which represented a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment that supports women in technology. “This memorandum is a vital step towards ensuring that women have equal opportunities in our industry,” Sulaberidze stated, reflecting on the importance of diversity for innovation. The second MoU was signed with D Block to enhance collaboration and innovation between the two organizations, further solidifying their partnership in promoting technological development in Georgia.
Looking to the Future
After the meeting concluded, participants left feeling re-energized and motivated. “Around twenty member companies have joined us, employing up to 15,000 people in Georgia. This collaboration is vital for the growth of our industry,” Sulaberidze emphasized, highlighting the tech community’s united strength.
Tsikolia presented a vision for the future: “The technology sector’s long-term interest in Georgia is ever growing. With the right policies, we believe Georgia can become a regional hub for American companies, serving as an operations base.”
The ICTA has a clear mission: to position the IT industry as a cornerstone of the new Georgian knowledge economy. Their goals include:
– Elevating the profile of the Georgian ICT industry
– Enhancing cooperation among business members
– Collaborating with the public sector to improve the legal and regulatory frameworks
As Georgia continues to navigate the evolving tech landscape, the ICTA remains dedicated to driving the growth of the ICT sector through strategic partnerships, investment opportunities, and a focus on professional development. The quarterly meeting catalyzed new ideas and initiatives, reinforcing the association’s commitment to creating an innovative and collaborative environment for all stakeholders.
With strong leadership and an engaged community, Georgia’s technology sector’s future appears bright, promising continued growth and international recognition. The discussions held during this meeting, coupled with the signed agreements, will undoubtedly contribute to shaping the trajectory of Georgia’s ICT industry in the future.
By Kesaria Katcharava
