HeiTech Meetup: From AI Concepts to Solutions

After a successful launch, HeiTech Meetup is back – and this time, we’re going all in on AI!

Recent data from S&P Global Market Intelligence reveals a troubling trend: 42% of enterprises abandoned most AI initiatives in 2025—more than double last year's 17% failure rate. Nearly half of all AI proof-of-concepts never reach production (source)
Why this massive implementation gap? Our upcoming meetup tackles this critical challenge head-on. We'll explore how disciplined development, strategic deployment, and seamless integration can transform promising AI concepts into solutions that deliver measurable value.

Whether you're leading AI initiatives, developing products, or curious about effective implementation approaches, you'll walk away with concrete insights to apply immediately. Connect with fellow practitioners, share experiences, and discover new perspectives - all while enjoying pizza and drinks.
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Agenda – May 21
📍 HEINEKEN Kraków, al. Jana Pawła II 43a, Podium Park
🕕17:30 -Doors open
Come early, grab a drink, and get ready for an evening full of tech & networking.
🕕 18:00 – Kickoff & What's New in AI
We'll kick things off with a short welcome and a quick roundup of the latest news, trends, and breakthroughs in the world of AI – a fast-paced look at what’s shaping the future right now.
🕕 18:15 – 18:50 " Building meaningful AI products driven by data” – Anna Pecka & Danuta Kowalczyk
In this presentation, we will explore the journey of building meaningful AI products that are driven by data. We will delve into the main concerns that arise during the development process, share key learnings from our experiences, and highlight the important elements that need to be secured at the beginning to ensure success.
🕕 18:50 – 19:05 – Networking Break
Grab a drink, chat, and exchange ideas!
🕕 19:05 – 19:40 "AI implementation projects - is there a universal approach?" Urszula Zemlińska-Sikora
AI projects come with a unique set of challenges. Does it? Maybe there is a universal approach that can ensure success? During my speech, we will explore the differences between creating AI products and their implementation, as well as we will go through the process of AI product implementation (project).
🍕 19:40 – 22:00 – Networking with Pizza & Drinks
👉 Register now & be part of the first HeiTech Meetup!

*Event will be conducted in English.
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Meet the Speakers

Anna Pecka
Data Scientist Lead at HEINEKEN, where she focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence to optimize business processes and create innovative analytical solutions. Previously, she led the development of AI products for the insurance sector. She has experience in managing transformation and optimization projects for financial processes, knowledge migration, and change management. Anna combines technical expertise with managerial skills. She primarily adheres to the principle of Ockhama's razor – if a simple solution works, there is no need to complicate it unnecessarily.

Danuta Kowalczyk
Dana is currently working as an Analytics Product Manager Chapter Lead at HEINEKEN. She has over 15 years of experience as a Product Manager, gaining experience across various industries such as FMCG, bathroom equipment, telecommunications, and IT. Additionally, Danuta has worked with teams from diverse cultures, spanning Asia, Europe, and the United States. Danuta love to bridge the gap between business and technology, ensuring that products align with market needs, deliver exceptional value, and drive business growth.

Urszula Zemlińska-Sikora
With 7 years of experience in IT project management, Urszula leads several AI initiatives with a successful track record. Her teams integrate and develop AI products. She holds an MBA and is a PhD candidate, focusing on IT team communication. Since 2023, she organizes 'AGILE pod Wawelem' and ‚NextGenIT’ meetups and runs ITProjects4all, mentoring new IT talent. Is active on LI, where we're already inviting: https://www.linkedin.com/in/urszulazs/