Maldivian AI Startup “Synetecs” gets selected for Web Summit 2025

Maldives-based AI startup Synetecs has achieved a significant milestone by being selected for the prestigious ALPHA program at Web Summit. This marks a historic first for the Maldives, as Synetecs becomes the country’s inaugural representative at this global platform. The event will take place in Doha, Qatar, from February 23rd to 26th, 2025.

Synetecs is on a mission to bridge the digital divide by democratizing artificial intelligence and fostering an inclusive digital future. With half of the world’s linguistic diversity under threat, the startup is dedicated to empowering communities through innovative AI tools that are affordable, locally compliant, and designed to preserve and promote language diversity. By breaking down language barriers, Synetecs aims to support 1.2 billion low-resource language speakers in safeguarding their cultures, values, and heritage. Through this effort, the startup envisions nurturing vibrant local digital economies and building a global digital society enriched by diversity, ensuring no one is left behind.

“Our selection into the ALPHA program opens unprecedented opportunities for both Synetecs and the Maldivian tech ecosystem,” said Ismail Kaleem, CEO of Synetecs. “As the first Maldivian startup to achieve this recognition, we’re excited to showcase our innovations on a global stage while paving the way for future tech entrepreneurs from Maldives.”

Web Summit, Doha 2025

The ALPHA program at Web Summit is globally recognized for identifying and nurturing early-stage startups with exceptional potential. Synetecs’ selection followed a rigorous evaluation process focused on innovation, market potential, and value proposition. Participation in the ALPHA program offers Synetecs unique opportunities, including:

• Connections with global investors and industry leaders

• Exclusive masterclasses and mentorship

• A chance to participate in the prestigious PITCH competition

• Broad international media exposure and networking

The last edition of Web Summit Qatar 2024, attracted over 15,000 attendees from 118 countries, including more than 1,000 startups from 81 countries, making it the largest gathering of international startups in the region.

Synetecs: Leading the Way in Low-Resource Language Accessibility

Synetecs addresses one of the most critical challenges in global communication: the digital exclusion of low-resource language communities. With nearly half of the world’s linguistic diversity at risk and a large portion of the global population not speaking English, their mission to democratize AI for language accessibility is both timely and crucial. Synetecs offers a suite of AI solutions that include:

• Advanced speech recognition models supporting diverse dialects for accurate voice-to-text conversion

• AI tools for generating content in low-resource languages, enabling communities to preserve and share their heritage digitally

• Robust data sovereignty features to protect sensitive linguistic and cultural information

• AI solutions aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), linking language preservation with global development objectives

From Thaana to Global Impact

Synetecs’ journey began with Dhivehi, the national language of the Maldives. Their experience with this low-resource language has shaped their mission to connect communities, preserve heritage, and enhance efficiency through AI. Synetecs’ solutions are already in use by key institutions, including the President’s Office, Anti-Corruption Commission, Civil Service Commission, and National Integrity Commission.

Their flagship product, Thaana.ai, has made AI tools for Dhivehi readily accessible to the public. Additionally, the Dhivehi Story AI tool, DhivehiTales, is now available to users. Both initiatives aim to address key challenges in cultural preservation, with more exciting developments set to launch this quarter.

As part of their participation in Web Summit, Synetecs aims to expand their reach to other low-resource languages and forge partnerships to advance their mission. “We’re looking forward to connecting with global investors, industry leaders, and potential collaborators who share our vision for an inclusive digital future,” said Mohamed Jinas, Managing Director of Synetecs.

Through their commitment to digital transformation and inclusive development through native languages, Synetecs is not just preserving languages – they're ensuring that communities speaking low-resource languages can fully participate in the digital future while maintaining their linguistic and cultural heritage.

This is more than just an event; it's a stepping stone towards a broader impact in the tech world. As they prepare for Web Summit Qatar 2025, Synetecs stands ready to showcase Maldivian innovation to the world, while continuing their mission of making AI accessible to all, regardless of the language they speak.