Odisha and GFTN Launch Integrated FinTech Hub in Bhubaneswar

The Government of Odisha has partnered with the Singapore-based Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) to establish the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar. The official launch is scheduled for **August 21, 2025**, marking a significant step toward positioning Odisha as a leader in the financial technology sector.

This initiative represents the first substantial FinTech capability program in the state, aimed at fostering a comprehensive and globally integrated financial technology ecosystem. The I-GFTCH will not only enhance local innovation but also align with India’s broader development goals in the digital economy.

Empowering Students and Professionals

A key component of this initiative is the launch of the National University of Singapore – Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) Certificate in FinTech & InsurTech. This program is designed to equip over **7,000 students** from various districts in Odisha with essential skills in financial technology. The **five-month hybrid course** will include online learning, two weeks of on-campus sessions in Bhubaneswar, hands-on projects, and internship placements, ensuring a practical and inclusive educational experience.

The initiative will be supported by the Skill Development Institute and the Union Ministry of Education, aiming to create a talent pipeline that aligns with the demands of the **$1.8 trillion** global digital economy. According to **Shri Dr Mukesh Mahaling**, the Hon’ble Minister for Electronics & IT, this partnership represents a significant investment in Odisha’s youth, enabling them to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Global Collaboration and Innovation

In addition to educational initiatives, Bhubaneswar will host the Black Swan Summit (BSS) in early **2026**. This global forum will convene technologists, policymakers, and innovators to discuss advancements in areas such as tokenisation, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. BSS is part of GFTN’s broader effort to create a global network for innovation and collaboration, offering Odisha’s professionals direct access to international job opportunities and venture prospects.

The I-GFTCH will also feature a Centre of Excellence aimed at driving digital transformation and supporting startups. This Centre will provide resources such as incubation, mentorship, and masterclasses, drawing on GFTN’s expertise to foster a robust financial technology ecosystem.

Odisha is also set to develop an offshore hub for GFTN’s partner financial institutions, which will serve as a dynamic space for collaboration among startups, corporations, and innovators. This multi-faceted approach underscores the state’s commitment to establishing a competitive and inclusive financial technology landscape.

The successful execution of this initiative is attributed to the leadership of **Mohan Charan Majhi**, the Honourable Chief Minister of Odisha. The first phase, focusing on Global Learning, will begin in **September 2025**.

In a statement, **Sopnendu Mohanty**, Group CEO of GFTN, highlighted the rapid implementation of this partnership, which began during the **January 2025** state visit of Singapore’s President, **Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam**. Mohanty expressed optimism about Odisha’s vision to become a global FinTech innovation hub, emphasizing the importance of world-class certification programs in unlocking opportunities for local talent.

The collaboration between Odisha and GFTN reflects a significant leap toward integrating global standards in financial technology, ultimately aiming to enhance the state’s position within the international digital economy.