Nvidia‘s annual GTC 2025 conference surged to new heights with an unprecedented turnout of 28,000 participants, marking a significant milestone for the tech giant. This growth reflects Nvidia’s expanding influence in the artificial intelligence sector and its pivotal role in driving technological advancements. Attendees from around the globe converged in San Jose to witness the latest innovations and network with industry leaders.
Nvidia’s GTC has evolved remarkably since its first event in 2009, which attracted only 1,500 attendees. Over the years, the conference has mirrored Nvidia’s rise as a leader in the AI and GPU markets. The current event not only exceeds previous attendance figures but also highlights the increasing integration of AI technologies across various industries.
How Did GTC 2025 Expand Its Venue and Attractions?
To accommodate the growing number of participants, GTC 2025 expanded its presence from two to seven downtown locations, taking over areas like Cesar Chavez Park and the Tech Interactive museum. The conference featured unique attractions, including T-shirt cannons and a Taiwanese-style night market, enhancing the attendee experience and integrating local culture.
What Economic Impact Did GTC 2025 Have on San Jose?
“literally almost doubled in size,”
Alex Stettinski, CEO of the San Jose Downtown Association, noted that foot traffic at the San Jose Convention Center rose from around 19,000 last year to roughly 26,000 this year. Stettinski observed a 130 percent increase in downtown dining visits, projecting that the conference’s economic impact will surpass last year’s $15.5 million, marking it as the city’s largest conference since the Covid-19 pandemic.
Will GTC Continue to Grow and Stay in San Jose?
“The only way to hold more people at GTC is we’re going to have to grow San Jose,”
remarked Jensen Huang, Nvidia’s CEO, during his keynote. Additionally, Stettinski assured that the city “will do anything we can” to host the event again in 2026, indicating a strong commitment to supporting Nvidia’s continued expansion and the conference’s future success.
The overwhelming success of GTC 2025 underscores Nvidia’s dominant position in the AI and GPU markets, while also highlighting its ability to mobilize significant economic activity in San Jose. As the conference continues to evolve, both Nvidia and the city anticipate further growth and increased integration of innovative technologies. This synergy between a leading tech company and a supportive city infrastructure sets the stage for future advancements and collaborative success.
