Odisha to Launch Global FinTech Capability Hub in Bhubaneswar on August 21
The I-GFTCH initiative, in collaboration with GFTN and global partners, aims to position Odisha as a global FinTech hub through skilling, innovation, and international collaboration.
Bhubaneswar : Odisha is set to make a historic entry into the global financial technology landscape with the launch of the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar on August 21, 2025. This ambitious initiative is a collaborative venture between the Government of Odisha and the Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN). Designed to place Odisha firmly on the global FinTech map, I-GFTCH will focus on innovation, skilling, research, and international partnerships.
This marks Odisha’s first major FinTech initiative with a global reach, aligning with India’s digital economy goals and the state’s vision to become a leader in technology-driven economic growth. The initiative is structured around four key pillars: Global Learning, Global Mindshare, Global Innovation, and Global Capability—each targeted at building a future-ready ecosystem for FinTech, InsurTech, and digital finance.
Global Learning: Skilling 7,000 Students for the Future
Starting September 2025, I-GFTCH will roll out a unique five-month hybrid certification programme in FinTech and InsurTech. The programme is being developed in partnership with NUS-AIDF (National University of Singapore – Asian Institute of Digital Finance) and GFTN.
The course will combine online modules, in-person sessions at the Bhubaneswar campus, hands-on industry projects, and internships. It aims to train over 7,000 students across Odisha, equipping them with skills in digital finance, regulation, and technology.
This component is backed by the Skill Development Institute and the Union Ministry of Education, reinforcing Odisha’s commitment to bridging the digital skill gap and preparing youth for high-demand global jobs.
Global Mindshare: Hosting the Black Swan Summit India
In early 2026, Bhubaneswar will host the Black Swan Summit (BSS) India, a premier global event on emerging technologies including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, tokenisation, and semiconductors.
Part of GFTN’s global summit series—with events in Zurich, Singapore, Tokyo, and Rwanda—BSS India will bring international experts, investors, and innovators to Odisha. This aims to connect the state’s talent pool, startups, and academic institutions with global digital economy trends.
Global Innovation: Centre of Excellence to Support Startups
To nurture innovation, I-GFTCH will also establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bhubaneswar. The centre will offer incubation, mentoring, venture development, and bootcamps for emerging startups. By supporting early-stage ventures and encouraging digital transformation, Odisha aims to become a breeding ground for globally competitive FinTech innovation.
Global Capability Hub: Delivery Centres for Global Institutions
As part of the initiative, offshore and nearshore delivery centres will be established in Odisha for partner financial institutions of GFTN. These centres, powered by graduates from the Global Learning programme, will function as collaborative innovation hubs rather than mere outsourcing locations.
The goal is to create value-added engagement zones where international firms, local startups, and academia can co-develop solutions and push technological boundaries.
Leaders Speak: Vision Backed by Action
Odisha Electronics & IT Minister Dr. Mukesh Mahaling emphasized the transformative potential of the initiative:
“By combining local potential with world-class institutions like NUS-AIDF, we are investing in the youth of Odisha to thrive in the \$1.8 trillion global digital economy.”
Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj added:
“This certification programme places Odisha firmly on the global digital skilling map and builds a strong foundation for India’s innovation economy.”
Sopnendu Mohanty, CEO of GFTN and former Chief FinTech Officer at the Monetary Authority of Singapore, praised the rapid progress:
“Odisha’s bold vision is becoming reality through globally recognised certification and an advanced Capability Hub—opening global doors for local talent.”
A Vision Born from Global Collaboration
The I-GFTCH initiative was first conceptualised during the state visit of Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam in January 2025. Today, it stands as a testament to Odisha’s rising global stature in digital innovation and economic transformation.
With strategic partnerships, targeted learning, and high-level global engagement, Odisha is now emerging as a serious contender in the global FinTech space, pushing forward the state’s broader vision of Viksit Odisha by 2036 under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi.
Through I-GFTCH, Odisha is not just preparing for the future—it is building it. With a strong emphasis on skilling, innovation, and global collaboration, the state is well on its way to becoming a FinTech powerhouse in eastern India and beyond.
