Fintech initiatives in Europe are ever-evolving with Odyssey Hackathon providing support to increase investments.
Two weeks ago, the annual Open Innovation Program was held in the Netherlands, gathering Europe’s biggest corporate, governmental and non-profit partners to get on the complex issues of technologies. Among the topics revolve around Artificial Technology and innovation, which are essential to the global fintech ecosystem.
Odyssey also comprises of more than 6,000 members, which are legal experts, developers, start-ups, corporate, investors and governmental bodies.
According to Secretary of Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands, Raymond Knops, “There is no doubt in my mind that when it comes to digital developments, a government cannot afford to simply wait and see. As a member of the government, I want to be in the thick of things and where the innovation is happening.”
Knops also added that by leading the way, with the government supporting the developments, there can be new opportunities for Europe. Experts, as well as innovators, need to work together according to him, for making up-to-date digital infrastructure.
Dutch Government and Emerging Technologies
The Odyssey Hackathon isn’t the first time that the Dutch government showed support to businesses. In fact, according to an article published by Forbes, the government is working on some strategic plans utilizing artificial technology and reinforcing its applications.
“For us, it is important to look at all kinds of new technologies, not only blockchain. We have the world-class digital infrastructure, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth were invented in the Netherlands, and the AMS-IX, one of the most important internet exchange in the world, is located in our country,” said Knops.
Odyssey Hackathon is formerly known as the Dutch Blockchain Hackathon and Blockchaingers. Its partners include the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations of the Netherlands, De Nederlandsche Bank, and KLM.
