The Blockchain Futurist Conference 2024, held on August 13–14 at Toronto’s Rebel Entertainment Complex and Cabana, marked its sixth year as Canada’s premier Web3 event. With over 8,000 attendees, 250+ speakers, and 200+ partners, the conference showcased the latest in blockchain innovation, decentralized finance (DeFi), artificial intelligence (AI), and more.
⸻
Key Highlights
• Record Attendance: The event attracted more than 8,000 participants, making it the largest in the conference’s history.
• Diverse Programming: Attendees engaged with over 250 speakers across three stages, covering topics like DeFi, staking, NFTs, DAOs, and AI integration.
• Interactive Experiences: The conference featured crypto-powered marketplaces, NFT galleries, and gamified elements, providing an immersive environment for participants.
⸻
🧑💼 Speaker Highlights
The conference featured over 250 speakers, including prominent figures in the blockchain and Web3 space. Some of the notable speaker lineup of influential figures in the blockchain and AI sectors, including:
• Anthony Di Iorio – Founder of Ethereum, Decentral, and Andiami
• Dean Skurka – President & CEO of WonderFi
• Mike Silagadze – Co-Founder & CEO of ether.fi
• Perianne Boring – CEO of the Digital Chamber
• Lucas Matheson – Country Director, Canada at Coinbase
• Corbin Fraser – CEO of Bitcoin.com
• Shytoshi Kusama – Lead Developer of Shiba Inu
• Ari Juels – Chief Scientist at Chainlink Labs
• Pegah Soltani – Head of Payments Products at Ripple
• Claire Chin – Head of Institutional at Gemini
For a complete list of speakers and their profiles, you can visit the official Blockchain Futurist Conference Speakers Page.
⸻
📸 Attendee Moments
The conference attracted over 8,000 attendees, making it the largest in its history. Attendees included developers, investors, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts from around the world. The event featured interactive experiences such as crypto-powered marketplaces, NFT galleries, and gamified elements.
You can explore more photos and moments from the conference on the official Blockchain Futurist Conference Instagram page.
AI Integration
Artificial intelligence was a central theme, with dedicated panels and discussions exploring its intersection with blockchain technology. Noteworthy AI-focused sessions included:
• AI Ethics Roundtable: A critical exploration of the ethical implications of AI and the transformative role of Web3 technologies.
• Crypto x AI Book Signing: Ari Juels discussed the convergence of AI and blockchain, followed by a book signing event.
• AI Web3 & Robotics for Kids: An interactive workshop introducing children to AI and Web3 concepts through hands-on activities.
Prominent AI leaders, such as Ben-Zion Benkhin (CEO of WOMBO) and Ashley Nandan (Google Canada, Startups), also shared insights on the future of AI in the decentralized space.
⸻
Hackathons and Community Engagement
The conference featured two significant hackathons:
• ETHToronto: A hybrid event bringing together developers to innovate and build on blockchain platforms.
• ETHWomen: An inclusive hackathon aimed at empowering women in the Web3 space, fostering collaboration and innovation.
Additionally, over 75 sub-events across Toronto during Canada Crypto Week provided ample networking and learning opportunities for attendees.
⸻
Immersive Experiences
Beyond traditional sessions, the conference offered unique experiences:
• Crypto-Powered Marketplaces: Attendees could engage in transactions using cryptocurrencies, showcasing real-world applications.
• NFT Galleries: Exhibitions highlighting the latest in digital art and collectibles.
• Gamified Elements: Interactive games and challenges integrated throughout the event to enhance engagement.
⸻
Looking Ahead
The 2024 Blockchain Futurist Conference not only set new records but also marked a significant milestone with its acquisition by Emerald, a leading operator of B2B trade shows and conferences. This partnership is expected to elevate the conference’s global reach and impact in the coming years.
⸻
For more information and updates on future events, visit the official Blockchain Futurist Conference website.
