National Challenge Fund Drives Innovation in OurTech, Strengthening Government-Community Connections
A new initiative called the OurTech Challenge is set to revolutionize the relationship between government, communities, and individuals by harnessing the power of digital technologies. This national challenge, supported by the National Challenge Fund, aims to enhance government processes, create user-centric digital services, and foster stronger connections between people, their communities, and the government.
The OurTech Challenge aligns with various national strategies and frameworks, including the Making Innovation Real, Civil Service Renewal 2030 Strategy, Our Public Service 2020, AI – Here for Good, Connecting Government 2030, and Harnessing Digital – The Digital Ireland Framework. By exploring the potential impact of technology on society and demonstrating its benefits, this challenge aims to inform and shape future strategies and policies for a more resilient society.
Part of the Government’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan, the National Challenge Fund is funded through the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility. Its goal is to drive innovation and foster collaborations between researchers, citizens, and government institutions. This funding will enable researchers to pioneer advancements in digital transformation and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) for societal good.
The OurTech Challenge aims to empower citizens and communities, enabling them to engage with local and national government bodies to address the pressing challenges of society. By co-creating technology-based solutions, this initiative seeks to enhance the connections and collaboration between various stakeholders.
With its focus on people-centric digital-first public services, the OurTech Challenge seeks to transform government processes and functions. Through the innovative use of digital technologies, such as AI, it aspires to provide greater value to the public while strengthening the ties between people, their communities, and the government.
This national challenge will not only drive technological advancements but also lay the foundation for a more resilient and inclusive society. By fostering collaboration and leveraging digital solutions, the OurTech Challenge aims to address societal challenges effectively and make a positive impact on communities.
As part of the challenge, various teams will work towards developing and implementing cutting-edge solutions. Their efforts will be guided by national strategies and policies, ensuring alignment with broader goals of digital transformation and the utilization of AI for societal good.
The OurTech Challenge represents a significant step towards a more connected and proactive government-community relationship. Through the collaboration of researchers, citizens, and government bodies, this initiative aims to revolutionize the way services are delivered, strengthen community engagement, and provide value-driven solutions for the public.
With the launch of the OurTech Challenge, Ireland is poised to become a global leader in digital innovation and community-centered governance. By embracing the potential of technology and fostering meaningful connections, this initiative will shape the future of public services and drive societal resilience, ultimately creating a better and more inclusive Ireland for all.
