Digiotouch at WAICF 2025 in Cannes: Advancing Responsible AI Together

The Digiotouch team had the privilege of attending the World AI Cannes Festival (WAICF) 2025 at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, where we introduced our work and showcased the BIAS project to a diverse audience of more than 400 people—entrepreneurs, academics, SMEs, and more. We distributed brochures and BIAS project merchandise, sparking conversations around how ethics and accountability can be seamlessly woven into AI-driven recruitment. Throughout the event, we also shot social media content for the BIAS project, aiming to capture the energy and insights we gathered along the way.

During our discussions, we spotlighted the BIAS National Labs, which bring together experts from various fields to identify and mitigate algorithmic biases. We shared how these labs offer hands-on collaboration and guidelines for data governance, model auditing, and fair AI development, all of which are vital for creating inclusive tools that truly serve everyone. Around 50 participants showed interest in joining the Estonian national lab.

We also emphasised the project’s capacity-building efforts. Many attendees at WAICF found such sessions particularly helpful, as they help individuals and organisations recognise and address potential inequalities embedded in their processes.

In addition, we highlighted the upcoming BIAS Spring School, a learning event featuring lectures, seminars, and interactive hands-on sessions on responsible AI. Attendees seemed excited about the Networking Reception, which will give participants a chance to exchange ideas with fellow enthusiasts, from HR leaders to academic researchers, all working toward a future where AI tools enhance human potential without perpetuating bias.

Lastly, we had the chance to engage with an Italian delegation, reflecting the festival’s global perspective and commitment to collaboration. We connected with representatives from leading industry players, regional innovation agencies, associations, and institutions from Italy, including Select Friuli Venezia Giulia. These exchanges underscored how crucial international cooperation is for shaping an AI landscape that values ethics, inclusivity, and innovation.

By the close of WAICF 2025, the importance of responsible AI had taken center stage. Having the opportunity to discuss the BIAS National Labs, capacity-building efforts, and Spring School with so many passionate individuals and forging new connections with delegates from Italy reinforced our belief that transparent, fair AI development is not only possible, but already underway. We look forward to our continued collaboration with the BIAS community as we help chart the course for a more equitable AI future.

WAICF 2025