Digital Economy Forum (DEF Bodrum 2025) to Be Held in Bodrum
The Digital Economy Forum (DEF Bodrum 2025) will take place between November 12–15 in Bodrum, bringing together global leaders in technology, innovation, and sustainable digital transformation. Discover how Bodrum becomes the new hub for global digital innovation.
Bodrum Welcomes Global Digital Visionaries
Bodrum, one of Turkey’s most beautiful coastal destinations, is preparing to host an event that could shape the future of the global digital economy. The Digital Economy Forum – DEF Bodrum 2025 will be held between 12–15 November 2025, featuring more than 150 global speakers, leading investors, and international participants from diverse industries including technology, economy, tourism, and innovation.
Announced at a press conference held at the Bodrum Promotion Foundation (BOTAV) building, the event has already generated excitement among professionals, entrepreneurs, and policymakers aiming to contribute to Turkey’s growing digital transformation vision.
Press Launch at BOTAV Center
The official announcement of DEF Bodrum 2025 took place during a press meeting attended by Bodrum District Governor Ali Sırmalı, Bodrum Mayor Tamer Mandalinci, and Forum Organization Committee Chairman Merter Özdemir.
During the meeting, Özdemir explained that the event’s mission goes far beyond a local gathering — it aims to create a bridge between Turkey’s digital innovators and international tech ecosystems. The forum will serve as a platform for sharing insights, exploring new investment opportunities, and strengthening the country’s reputation as a forward-thinking digital hub.
A Four-Day Program of Global Insight
According to Özdemir, DEF Bodrum 2025 will bring together global thinkers and investors from around the world. Over four days, participants will explore key themes such as the future of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, e-commerce, blockchain, fintech, tourism technology, and sustainability.
The forum’s focus is not only on technological development but also on the economic, cultural, and environmental dimensions of digital progress. With interactive panels, workshops, and keynote sessions, DEF Bodrum 2025 aims to help local and international businesses adapt to the challenges of the digital age.
Mayor Tamer Mandalinci: “Bodrum Will Be Remembered with Digital Economy”
In his address, Bodrum Mayor Tamer Mandalinci highlighted that the forum represents more than just a conference. He described it as the beginning of a long-term transformation journey positioning Bodrum as an international center of knowledge, innovation, and technology.
He said, “This forum will open a broad vision that extends from digital transformation to e-commerce, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and digital marketing. We will host international leaders from various countries in Bodrum. The ideas shared here will shape not only today but also the future of our global economy.”
A Global Vision for Turkey’s Digital Future
The Digital Economy Forum Bodrum 2025 will play a strategic role in promoting Turkey’s vision for global competitiveness in digital innovation. As technology evolves rapidly, Turkey continues to position itself as a key player connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Bodrum, with its unique combination of natural beauty, advanced infrastructure, and creative energy, provides the ideal backdrop for such a forward-looking initiative.
The event also reflects the Turkish government’s commitment to supporting digital innovation, smart cities, and knowledge-based economic growth — all essential pillars for the next generation of global competitiveness.
From Tourism to Technology: A New Era for Bodrum
Traditionally known as a tourism and cultural hotspot, Bodrum is now expanding its identity to include digital innovation and entrepreneurship. Events like DEF Bodrum 2025 highlight the city’s transformation from a holiday destination into a knowledge and innovation hub.
The inclusion of topics such as AI, digital sustainability, e-commerce, and the global data economy demonstrates Bodrum’s readiness to engage with global digital trends while preserving its unique character. For investors and startups, the forum will open doors to new collaborations and opportunities in Turkey’s rapidly growing tech ecosystem.
Highlights of DEF Bodrum 2025
Dates: November 12–15, 2025
Location: Bodrum, Turkey
Participants: Over 150 speakers, global investors, and leaders from multiple industries
Themes: Digital transformation, AI, fintech, blockchain, digital marketing, sustainability, and innovation in tourism
Organizers: Bodrum Promotion Foundation (BOTAV) and the DEF Bodrum 2025 Committee
The forum will also feature networking events, startup showcases, and B2B meetings, giving entrepreneurs the chance to connect directly with investors and policymakers. Special panels will focus on women in tech, green innovation, and digital trade opportunities for developing markets.
Shaping the Digital Economy with Global Collaboration
One of the key goals of DEF Bodrum 2025 is to encourage collaboration across borders. Global tech companies, venture capital firms, academic institutions, and startups will gather to share insights and explore strategic partnerships.
By uniting leaders from different sectors, the forum aims to build an inclusive and sustainable digital future — one that empowers both established businesses and young entrepreneurs. Discussions will revolve around how digitalization can drive economic resilience, create new jobs, and support regional development.
Conclusion: Bodrum as the Digital Bridge of the Future
With the Digital Economy Forum Bodrum 2025, Turkey takes another major step toward becoming a global hub for digital transformation. The event promises not only to shape the conversation around emerging technologies but also to strengthen Bodrum’s international brand as a destination where innovation, sustainability, and creativity thrive together.
As Mayor Mandalinci summarized, “The power that shapes today will guide the future.”
Bodrum’s vision now extends beyond sun and sea — it’s about connecting minds, ideas, and technologies that will define the future of the global digital economy.
