Demystifying Local AI: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Get Started

AI doesn't have to live in the cloud.

Running AI locally is becoming more accessible than ever, giving you greater privacy, more control over your data, lower long-term costs, and the ability to customize powerful open-source models for your own needs.

If you've heard terms like local models, Llama, Mistral, or Ollama but weren't sure where to begin, this session is for you.

We'll demystify local AI by covering:

What local AI is—and how it differs from cloud-based AI

The security benefits of running AI locally

Which open-source models are best for you

The tools you'll need to get started

Resources to continue learning

No prior experience required.

We'll conclude with an extended audience Q&A, giving you plenty of time to ask questions about your own projects and use cases.

Speakers

Ryan Kell

Co-founder of Kahoa and serial entrepreneur focused on building practical AI systems, including RAG, agentic workflows, fine-tuning, and production AI applications.

Hubbert Smith

Founder & CEO of i4Ops and Co-Chair of the Linux Foundation's AI Risk & Security Working Group, specializing in AI strategy, governance, and security.

Sponsored by Solution Stream

As always, food and drink, engaging conversation, and incredible company will all be provided!

Please be advised: Unfortunately, space is very limited at these community events and we can not always accept everyone we would like to come. If you are not accepted to this event, please keep applying! We appreciate your application tremendously and we are looking forward to seeing you at a future event very soon!

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