Chiling Tong, the CEO of the National Asian Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce & Entrepreneurship ( National ACE ) , has stressed that   the NEX-T Summit 2025 arrived at a pivotal moment and is helping to redefine the next chapter of globalization.

Tong, also the President of National ACE, addressed the attendees of the conference at Stanford University with a powerful message on the intersection of technology, leadership, and inclusion.

National ACE CEO Chiling Tong addressed the NEX-T Summit with a powerful message on the intersection of technology, leadership and globalization.

"This summit arrives at a pivotal moment," Tong said. "Across the world, artificial intelligence, new technologies and shifting global dynamics are transforming how we work, how we live and how we connect."

Tong underscored the important role Asian American leaders play in shaping the global future amid rapid technological and societal transformation.   "We represent more than 3 million AAPI ( Asian American and Pacific Islander ) small business owners," Tong said, referring to National ACE ’ s reach and influence, which includes collaboration with over 130 affiliated chambers and partners nationwide. "It is truly an honor to join you … for the 2025 Next-T Summit."

Tong extended her appreciation to the summit organizers and partners, including NextFin.AI, the Global Asian Leaders Alliance, TMTPost Group, Shanda Group, and Barron ’ s China, for convening what she described as a "timely and forward-looking gathering."

The summit, which brings together over 400 entrepreneurs, innovators, and thought leaders from across industries and geographies, is taking place amid significant global change. In her remarks, Tong highlighted how artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, and evolving international dynamics are reshaping the way people live, work, and interact.

"These changes bring extraordinary opportunities, but also profound challenges," she noted.

Emphasizing the responsibilities of Asian American leaders, Tong spoke of the importance of not only advancing business and technology but also fostering cross-cultural understanding and trust. "We have a vital role to play … in building cultural bridges, strengthening trust, and shaping an inclusive global future," she said.

Tong hailed the Next-T Summit as more than a conference, calling it "a platform for bold ideas, meaningful discussion, and lasting collaboration."

By convening visionaries across sectors and generations, she said, the summit is helping to define "the next chapter of globalization." She closed her speech with a call to action centered on collective responsibility and human-centered innovation: "By working together, we can foster sustainable growth, empower the next generation of leaders, and ensure that innovation serves humanity."

The two-day Next-T Summit 2025 kicked off on September 27, with the theme of the "Next Era of X-Technology." It featured keynote speeches, panels, and networking opportunities focused on the future of technology, entrepreneurship, and global collaboration.