About the summit

The Impact First Summit, formerly known as the Global Digital Development Summit, will bring together participants to share and discuss cutting-edge technologies and approaches to address the world’s most pressing development challenges.

We believe digital technology is the future of the development sector, capable of improving development outcomes, driving economic growth, and lifting millions out of poverty. Data is central to this discussion, whether big, open, real-time, or consumer-based. The rapidly changing data landscape means that we have more information, evidence, and insight than ever before, but efforts must be coordinated to ensure all countries have the tools, knowledge, and resources to use information effectively. The Impact First Summit will explore how infrastructure, interoperability, accessibility, and data science are critical parts of this discussion.

The Summit will feature engaging sessions on topics including AI-powered forecasting, fostering national-level systems adoption, employing machine learning to combat pandemics, and using digital innovations to bolster reproductive, maternal, and child health. Through a series of plenary and breakout sessions and panels, the Impact First Summit will create a platform for participants to share innovative ideas, brainstorm effective solutions, and drive cross-sector action and growth.