By Lawan Abdullahi
SaniArtificial intelligence (AI), digital skills development, and responsible innovation have been identified as the key pillars for strengthening the East Midlands’ digital economy, according to experts who gathered at the Tech Derby Conference 2026.Held at Vaillant Live in Derby during East Midlands Tech Week, the conference brought together technology professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers to discuss the theme, “AI & the Next Digital Economy: Innovation, Opportunities and Responsible Governance.”Throughout the event, speakers highlighted AI’s growing influence across industries, emphasizing its ability to boost productivity, create new business opportunities, and reshape the future of work. They also stressed that innovation must be guided by ethical standards, transparency, and strong governance to ensure public trust.Professor Stephan Reiff-Marganiec, Head of the School of Computing at the University of Derby, underscored the importance of preparing the next generation for an AI-driven economy. He called for stronger partnerships between universities, businesses, and local communities to equip people with practical digital and AI skills.The conference also showcased practical applications of AI, with Ajibola Shokunbi of AudioInsight UK demonstrating how artificial intelligence is transforming music education through research-based technological solutions.A panel discussion on AI Governance and Responsible Innovation explored issues including accountability, data protection, transparency, and human oversight. The session highlighted that building confidence in AI requires clear regulations alongside responsible deployment.Moderating the discussion, Adepeju Bello, Director at Tech Derby and Head of the Tech Advisory & Policy Group (TAG), noted that AI has evolved from an emerging concept into a transformative technology already impacting healthcare, finance, education, government, and entrepreneurship.Experts at the conference agreed that sustainable digital growth depends not only on technological advancement but also on investment in talent, collaboration, inclusive innovation, and public trust.Joseph Origbo, AI researcher and Co-Founder of Tech Derby, stressed that successful digital transformation requires cooperation between universities, businesses, public institutions, and technology leaders to build a competitive innovation ecosystem.Speaking after the event, Akindayo Akindolani, CEO of Tech Derby, said the conference demonstrated the region’s growing technological potential. He reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting startups, AI education, technical training, innovation partnerships, and founder development programmes.Co-Founder and Event Project Manager Olawale Olatunji described the conference as a milestone for the East Midlands’ technology ecosystem, saying collaboration across different sectors would help position the region as a leading innovation hub.The event received support from several organisations, including East Midlands Tech Week, the University of Derby, British Business Bank, Mercia Ventures, LemFi, TES Community, and other innovation partners.Looking ahead, Tech Derby plans to expand initiatives such as AI workshops, startup acceleration programmes, hackathons, youth-focused digital training, and strategic partnerships designed to strengthen the region’s technology ecosystem.Software developer Omolara Oladipupo also encouraged businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), to embrace emerging technologies such as agentic AI and advanced digital tools to improve efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term growth.The conference concluded with a shared message: developing digital talent, promoting responsible AI adoption, and fostering collaboration will be essential for building a resilient, inclusive, and globally competitive digital economy in the years ahead.
