Expert Events

The AI-Ready Data Foundation: Unifying Data for Real-Time AI

Name: The AI-Ready Data Foundation: Unifying Data for Real-Time AI
Start: 2026-03-05T18:00:00-05:00
End: 2026-03-05T21:00:00-05:00
Location: Canoe

As AI adoption scales, fragmented data architectures continue to limit impact. Join Blend and IBM for an executive dinner exploring how unified data foundations enable real-time AI, stronger governance, and scalable enterprise value.

Canoe

March 5, 2026

to March 5, 2026

6:00 pm

- 9:00 pm

About this event

As enterprises move toward AI at scale, many are confronting a shared challenge: fragmented data architectures that separate operational systems from analytical and AI platforms. This divide slows innovation, increases cost and risk, and prevents AI from operating on trusted,
real-time data.

To unlock the full potential of AI, organizations are rethinking how data is managed, governed, and accessed and an architectural imperative is emerging — one that unifies operational and analytical data so AI can
act with real-time context, enterprise-grade governance, and the flexibility required for modern workloads.

Join IBM and Blend for an executive community dinner exploring how leaders are building AI-ready data foundations. This discussion will examine how unified data platforms are reshaping modern data strategy, enabling real-time AI use cases, and helping executives align AI initiatives with long-term business value

Our speakers

Ankit Patel

Ankit Patel, WW watsonx.data Tiger Team Lead

Ankit Patel is a seasoned technology executive with over 20+ years of experience leading enterprise-scale digital transformation, specializing in GenAI and AI/ML innovation across Fortune 500 organizations including DataStax, BlackRock, Merrill Lynch, and IBM. As Global watsonx.data Tiger Team Leader at IBM and DataStax for over a decade, he drives strategic initiatives for cloud-native, GenAI-powered data platforms while serving as a trusted advisor to C-suite executives on AI transformation, TCO optimization, and ROI maximization. He excels at bridging cutting-edge GenAI technology with measurable business value, translating complex AI innovations into competitive advantages while leading cross-functional teams through enterprise modernization initiatives. With deep expertise in GenAI integration, cloud-native architecture, and digital transformation, Ankit brings a unique combination of technical depth and strategic advisory experience to executive engagements on AI leadership and enterprise innovation.

Lexi Bowden

Event Host | Blend

Lexi Bowden is a sports reporter and host known for her ability to guide engaging conversations and bring compelling stories to life. With experience leading interviews and moderating live discussions, she helps translate complex ideas into clear, engaging dialogue for audiences. Bowden is passionate about connecting people through meaningful conversation and storytelling.

Key themes & discussion topics

Building an AI-Ready Data Foundation

Breaking Down Data Silos Without Increasing Risk

Operationalizing AI for Real Business Outcomes

Balancing Short-Term AI Wins with Long-Term Architecture

Event agenda

Cocktails & networking

6:00 – 6:30 PM

Opening remarks & panel discussion

6:30 – 7:15 PM

Dinner & guided discussion

7:15 – 8:45

Event wrap-up & group reflection

8:45 – 9:00PM

Why should you attend?

Learn how leading organizations are unifying data across operational and analytical systems to support real-time, enterprise-wide AI.

Explore how peers are breaking down data silos without compromising governance, security, or ownership.

Hear how unified data foundations enable generative AI, intelligent agents, and other use cases that deliver real operational impact.

Gain insight into architectural decisions that balance near-term AI wins with long-term scalability, performance, and business value.

Who should attend

This event is tailored for senior technology and data leaders responsible for data architecture, AI strategy, analytics platforms, and enterprise governance, including CIOs, CTOs, CDOs, CDAOs, CAIOs, and data platform leaders.

Join a select group of peers to discuss how unifying data across operational and analytical systems can accelerate AI adoption while reducing complexity, cost, and risk.

Venue

Canoe

4199 Paces Ferry Road, SE
Atlanta
GA
30339
United States

Apply to participate