Blog

The Futurescot AI Challenge launch

A graphic of an abstracted map of Scotland

Portrait of Stewart Cruickshank
By Stewart Cruickshank

17 June 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way we use technology to solve problems. Across sectors, across borders, and in our everyday lives. But what does this mean for the public sector? And how can we leverage AI to improve public sector service provision?

Like many technologies, AI is a tool. When used effectively and ethically, it can boost productivity, cut costs and improve decision-making. So that public sector organisations can focus on what matters most - improving the lives of citizens.

We understand that especially in the public sector, budgetary, expertise or procurement constraints act as barriers to the adoption of new technologies. AI is no different. To address these issues, we are partnering with Futurescot magazine to launch the AI Challenge.

What is the AI Challenge?

The AI Challenge is a competition open to public sector organisations in Scotland. Participants can come from various sectors. These include the Scottish Government, its' agencies, and non-departmental public bodies (NDPBs). Also included are Local Government, Health and Social Care, and arms-length organizations (ALEOs).

It invites organisations to submit an idea that uses artificial intelligence to solve a real-world problem. The AI Challenge offers an opportunity to accelerate AI use cases through a minimal resource commitment, while receiving strong technical support.

Three shortlisted participants will gain insights into AI applications and receive a proof of concept from Storm ID to bring their idea to life. The shortlisted applicants will also have an opportunity to showcase their projects at Scotland's largest annual public sector digital transformation event in November 2024.

The winner will receive the equivalent of £20,000 in technical support from Storm ID to develop their proof of concept into a fuller solution.

Learn more about the application process, judging criteria, and timelines.