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…

About

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! The AI Collective is a global non-profit building the human layer for the AI era. We unite 200,000+ leaders, builders, and stakeholders across 100+ forums worldwide to democratize the frontier, build trust, and coordinate how society navigates the rapid acceleration of technological progress. All attendees and organizers at events affiliated with The AI Collective agree to our privacy policy and are subject to our code of conduct.