An annual gathering exclusive for GFCC members and fellows to exchange insights and envision the future of competitiveness strategies. This year's theme is "Navigating a New Era of Competitiveness".

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Powering Competitiveness: Energy, Infrastructure and Digital Innovation for Economic Transformation

Economic growth, geopolitical tensions, technological disruption and the race for strategic capabilities are reshaping competitiveness across the globe. Nations are increasingly focused on resilience, energy security, infrastructure modernization and technological sovereignty.

Where does Southeast Europe stand in the global competitiveness landscape — and where is it headed? Drawing on Gallup's latest data, Preslav Tonkov opens the summit with a frank, evidence-based assessment of the region's economic strengths, structural challenges, and the indicators that will define its trajectory in the decade ahead.

Energy security has become one of the defining competitiveness challenges of the decade. This session explores how countries can diversify energy sources, strengthen resilience and ensure affordable, reliable energy supplies.

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This session will highlight Bulgaria's economic transformation, major infrastructure investments and emerging innovation opportunities.

The grid is becoming the central nervous system of modern economies. Aging infrastructure, growing electricity demand, distributed generation and digital technologies are forcing countries to rethink energy systems.

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World-class infrastructure is increasingly a prerequisite for competitiveness. This session explores transportation, logistics, energy systems, digital connectivity and innovation districts as engines of growth.

A keynote examining Europe's competitiveness challenges and opportunities in a rapidly changing global environment.

Artificial intelligence is becoming a foundational technology shaping productivity, innovation and economic growth.

As countries seek reliable low-carbon power, interest in nuclear energy and emerging energy technologies is growing.

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Many countries have developed ambitious competitiveness and innovation strategies. Yet execution remains challenging.

A forward-looking discussion reflecting on the major themes emerging from the Summit and identifying priorities for governments, universities and businesses.

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GFCC members and fellows will explore industrial and innovation sites across Sofia.

Plovdiv, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe and Bulgaria's second-largest city, will host a day of visits to leading industrial and innovation sites.