The new technology festival Flanders Technology & Innovation (FTI) attracted 177,500 visitors over the last ten days in all participating cities and locations in the region.
The closing weekend, which took place on Saturday and Sunday at the Antwerp Sportpaleis and the adjacent Lotto Arena, welcomed more than 33,000 visitors, according to the organisation.
The FTI is the successor to the technology fair 'Flanders Technology,' a biennial trade fair that was last held in 1999. The rebrand is an initiative of the Flemish Government, in collaboration with technology companies, colleges and universities to underline the fact that Flanders is at the forefront in the field of technology and innovation.
The event was aimed at the general public (including children and students) as well as the sector itself and potential investors. Events also took place during the week in Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent, Hasselt, Kortrijk and Leuven.
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"We have sent a wave of positivity and confidence in progress throughout Flanders," said Flemish Minister-President Jan Jambon (N-VA). "The various sub-festivals have shown concretely that Flanders does indeed have a bright future if we remain the European leader in innovation. We can offer an even better Flanders to our children and grandchildren."
The organisers are confident that the FTI will not only be a one-off experience, but will return every two years. The next edition would therefore be held in 2026.
