In today’s business landscape, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity are two of the most powerful forces shaping how business is done.
No longer just technical concerns or back-office functions, they define an organization’s ability to grow, compete, innovate and protect its most valuable assets.
Companies implementing AI-driven cybersecurity systems saved an average of 5.9% of annual revenue in 2024 through improved threat detection and response, per ecommerce news site PYMNTS. And the stakes are rising: 78% of chief information security officers acknowledge AI-powered cyber threats are having a significant impact, according to a March report by AI vendor Darktrace.
Maryland offers the ideal backdrop for a forward-looking conversation about the future of business technology
BannerX, The Banner’s new technology and innovation event, brings this conversation front and center.
Happening Sept. 25 in Columbia, MD, BannerX dives into the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, exploring how these transformative forces are reshaping business across every sector. The event convenes a curated lineup of leaders from organizations including the Baltimore Ravens, University of Maryland, Brookings Institution, Bezos Earth Fund, Synaptic, PerryLabs and the Maryland Department of Information Technology, among others.
The convergence of technology, security and strategy
The decision to host BannerX is intentional. In just a few years, AI has evolved from a promising tool into a transformative driver of change. At the same time, cybersecurity threats have escalated in scope and sophistication, forcing leaders to adapt in real time. Alongside these challenges come new opportunities to build smarter, more resilient, and more inclusive digital ecosystems.
BannerX is designed to move beyond theory into practical insights and real-world applications. The program features AI and security experts, government leaders, entrepreneurs and executives unpacking these shifts and what they mean for organizations of all sizes — and for Maryland.
Long recognized as a hub for defense, technology, and research, Maryland’s startup and cybersecurity communities are now gaining fresh momentum. Positioned at the crossroads of government, academia and industry, the state offers the ideal backdrop for a forward-looking conversation about the future of business technology.
Sessions will tackle critical topics, with titles such as:
- Threat and Risk Management: Top trends in cybersecurity and AI that impact the business world.
- Cybersecurity in Critical Sectors: How are critical industries facing cybersecurity risk and AI?
- Is Maryland Keeping Up? How does Maryland plan to tackle advancing technology and cybersecurity challenges?
- Securing the Future: How is Maryland planning to make advancements in the AI and cybersecurity workforce, economy, and community?
- Communicating Cyber Risk to the Board and C-Suite: How security leaders can effectively translate technical risks into business impact and secure necessary resources.
The goal is to equip attendees with foresight and actionable strategies to lead confidently in a rapidly evolving environment.
Stepping into the future
BannerX intends to be a catalyst for new connections and new thinking.
Whether you are a CISO, security professional, business leader or policy maker, the event offers a front-row seat to conversations that sharpen understanding of the challenges ahead, while opening the door to new possibilities on how AI and cybersecurity can not only protect organizations but also unlock innovation and growth.
What happens at the crossroads of AI and cybersecurity will shape not just companies, but communities. Let’s figure out our path forward together.
To view the agenda, full speaker lineup, and purchase tickets, visit BannerX.For sponsorship opportunities, please contact via email directly.
