Odisha and GFTN Launch Global FinTech Hub in Bhubaneswar

The Government of Odisha has officially partnered with the Singapore-based Global Finance & Technology Network (GFTN) to establish the Integrated Global Financial Technology Capability Hub (I-GFTCH) in Bhubaneswar. This initiative, set to launch on August 21, 2025, represents a significant step in positioning Odisha within the global financial technology landscape.

The I-GFTCH is designed to bolster Odisha’s role in the rapidly evolving financial technology sector, aligning with national development objectives. This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy that aims to establish the state as a leader in FinTech innovation and capability.

Global Learning Initiative

As part of this partnership, Odisha will collaborate with GFTN and the National University of Singapore – Asian Institute of Digital Finance (NUS-AIDF) to offer a professional certification program in FinTech and InsurTech. The five-month hybrid course will feature online modules, two weeks of in-person training in Bhubaneswar, practical projects, and internship opportunities. The program aims to empower over 7,000 students across Odisha with essential skills in technology, regulatory frameworks, and business operations relevant to the financial technology and insurance technology sectors.

The initiative is backed by the Skill Development Institute and the Union Ministry of Education, emphasizing a commitment to creating a skilled workforce ready for the demands of the global digital economy, which is projected to be worth $1.8 trillion.

Global Collaboration and Innovation

In early 2026, Bhubaneswar will also host the Black Swan Summit (BSS) India, a global forum aimed at accelerating the adoption of frontier technologies. The summit will bring together technologists, policymakers, investors, and innovators to discuss advancements in areas such as tokenisation, artificial intelligence, and digital infrastructure.

This summit is part of GFTN’s broader initiative that includes various high-impact forums across Asia, Europe, and Africa, providing Odisha’s students and entrepreneurs with access to international job markets and venture opportunities. The GFTN’s network also includes the Singapore FinTech Festival, the world’s largest gathering in this sector.

Odisha plans to establish a Centre of Excellence to drive digital transformation and innovation. This hub will support startups through incubation, mentorship, and various development programs, drawing on GFTN’s global expertise to foster a vibrant financial technology ecosystem.

Additionally, the state is developing a strategic offshore hub for GFTN’s partner financial institutions. This hub will create dynamic business environments that promote collaboration among startups, corporations, and innovators.

The I-GFTCH initiative is spearheaded by the Honourable Chief Minister Mr. Mohan Charan Majhi and supported by the Department of Electronics & IT and the Department of Higher Education. The first phase, focusing on Global Learning, is set to begin in September 2025.

Shri Dr Mukesh Mahaling, the Honourable Minister for Electronics & IT, highlighted the significance of this partnership, stating, “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.”

Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, Honourable Minister of Higher Education, echoed this sentiment, noting, “We are committed to building a talent pipeline that can power India’s innovation economy, and this certification is a powerful step forward.”

Sopnendu Mohanty, Group CEO of GFTN, commended Odisha’s leadership for swiftly transforming the FinTech partnership with Singapore into actionable initiatives. He stated, “Odisha’s bold vision to become a global FinTech innovation hub is coming to life through world-class certification programmes and a cutting-edge Capability Hub – unlocking global opportunities for local talent and building a future-ready digital economy.”

The establishment of I-GFTCH signals a pivotal moment for Odisha, as it aims to integrate itself into the global financial technology framework. With a strong focus on education and innovation, the state is poised to attract talent and investment in this rapidly advancing field.