AI

Machine Learning

Blockchain

Open Source Summit Europe, Bilbao, Spain

Author:

Kimchann Chon

Date:

Sep 19, 2023

The recent Open Source Summit Europe 2023, held from September 19-21 in Bilbao, Spain, served as a melting pot for innovators, technologists, and thought leaders across various domains of open source technology. This annual event celebrated as the premier gathering for open source enthusiasts, showcased a broad spectrum of conferences, from ContainerCon to the SustainabilityCon, each addressing pivotal technologies and issues affecting today’s tech landscape.

As a researcher dedicated to integrating blockchain and Artificial Intelligence (AI) in supply chain management, the summit offered an invaluable platform to delve deeper into these technologies while exploring their alignment with sustainable development goals (SDGs). My focus at the summit was to gather insights and foster collaborations that could enhance the transparency, efficiency, and sustainability of supply chains, a vital component of modern economies.



Engaging with Cutting-Edge Innovations

The Open Source Summit enveloped attendees in a sea of innovative ideas and solutions, particularly through its diverse range of conferences. Notable among these was the SupplyChainSecurityCon, which addressed the pressing issues of supply chain security. This conference was particularly pertinent to my research, as blockchain is pivotal in creating secure and transparent supply chain networks.

Another significant aspect of the summit was the Open AI and Data Forum. This forum provided a deep dive into how open-source innovations in AI, machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), and data science can be leveraged to optimize and solve complex problems in supply chain management. The discussions and workshops revealed how AI could enhance forecasting accuracy and operational efficiency, elements critical to managing today’s complex supply chains.



Collaborative Opportunities and Learning

The Open Source Leadership Summit was another enriching experience where community leaders shared insights on fostering a collaborative and inclusive open-source culture. Here, I engaged with experts and pioneers who are steering the future of open technologies. Learning about their projects and the strategies employed to overcome common challenges in the open-source domain provided me with a broader perspective on how to approach my research initiatives.

Moreover, the Diversity Empowerment Summit underscored the importance of inclusion in technology. It reminded me of the value diverse perspectives bring to tackling global challenges like sustainable supply chain management, especially when enhanced by blockchain and AI technologies.



Future Visions and Sustainable Impact

The most impactful takeaway was from SustainabilityCon, which aligned closely with my aspirations regarding SDGs. The conference explored how open innovation could drive sustainability in technology and business practices. The use of blockchain and AI in tracking resource usage and reducing waste presents a promising avenue for achieving more sustainable supply chain practices worldwide.



Conclusion

The Open Source Summit Europe 2023 was more than just a conference; it was a beacon for future technological developments. The event not only broadened my understanding of current trends but also equipped me with knowledge and networks essential for advancing my research in blockchain and AI for supply chain management.

As I reflect on the summit, I am inspired by the myriad possibilities of how open-source technology can revolutionize industries, especially in creating more transparent, efficient, and sustainable supply chains. The journey of exploring these technologies is ongoing, and the insights gained from the summit will undoubtedly shape the strategies I employ in my forthcoming research initiatives.

© Kimchann Chon. 2025

© Kimchann Chon. 2025