David Wilde & James Raddings get us started.

Laying the Foundations for Data-Driven Growth in the North

Unlocking the full potential of data requires more than just technology - it demands trusted infrastructure, clear governance, skilled people, and meaningful collaboration. How is the government working to strengthen the building blocks of effective data use to drive inclusive growth across the North? From improving data quality and interoperability to enabling secure sharing between sectors, this session explores what it takes to turn ambition into impact - and how a strong data ecosystem can power innovation in health, energy, logistics, and beyond.

Enabling the Future State: Partnering for AI-Driven Public Services

AI is reshaping the way governments deliver services, offering new possibilities for efficiency, personalisation, and pre-emptive delivery. This session will explore how strategic partnerships between the public sector, industry, and academia are key to building AI-driven public services that are ethical, inclusive, and effective. From predictive social care to intelligent infrastructure and citizen-facing digital assistants, we'll showcase pioneering examples and lessons learned. 

Lessons from the Netherlands - Governing with AI at Scale

As AI and data become central to modern public services, the Netherlands has emerged as a European leader in applying these technologies with purpose, transparency, and citizen focus. In this keynote, we explore how the Dutch Government is embedding AI across areas such as mobility, health, and digital identity — underpinned by strong governance frameworks, robust data infrastructure, and a commitment to ethical design. What can the UK learn from the Netherlands’ whole-of-government approach to AI? And how might collaboration across borders help us deliver more trusted, responsive and data-enabled services here in the North?

Digitale Overheid (Digital Government Service)

When AI Acts – Agentic Systems and the Future of Public Services

AI is no longer just analysing data - it’s beginning to act on it. This keynote explores the rise of agentic AI: intelligent systems capable of taking decisions, initiating actions, and adapting in real time. From automating casework and triaging public health data to managing dynamic infrastructure systems, agentic AI promises faster, more responsive public services. But with greater autonomy comes greater responsibility - and risk. What does it mean to entrust decision-making to AI in a public sector context? And how can we ensure transparency, accountability, and trust in systems that increasingly act on our behalf?

The first of the day's three 1-hour Discussion Table sessions where government delegates break up into small groups for candid, closed-door conversations across their choice of themed Discussion Table topics.

Have a cuppa and chat with your fellow attendees.

The second of the day's three 1-hour Discussion Table sessions where government delegates break up into small groups for candid, closed-door conversations across their choice of themed Discussion Table topics.

Our third and final 1-hour Discussion Table session where government delegates break up into small groups for candid, private conversations across their choice of themed Discussion Table topics.

Sit down lunch with your fellow attendees. Vegetarian/vegan options available.

David Wilde and James Raddings get you started on the home stretch.

Cross-Government Data Sharing – How Can We Make It Work?

This keynote delves into the challenges and opportunities of cross-government data sharing, exploring how enhanced collaboration across agencies can lead to better services and outcomes for citizens. The session will highlight best practices, legal and ethical frameworks, and the technologies essential for secure, efficient, and transparent data exchange between government departments.

Data Optimisation and Visibility for Predictive Analytics

This session examines the vital role of data optimisation and visibility in unlocking the full potential of predictive analytics. By focusing on streamlined data management and improved data transparency, the session will explore how these factors contribute to more accurate predictions.

Panel Discussion: Data

This cross government panel brings together those who build, harness and automate data to improve public service, offering unrivalled insights from multiple perspectives.

Securing Data in the Digital Age: Industry Best Practices

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, safeguarding data is essential to protect sensitive information and uphold trust. This session will explore key strategies for data security, including encryption, access control, and secure storage, offering practical insights on how industries can strengthen their data protection measures and mitigate risks in a connected world.

Better Decisions, Smarter Government - Turning Data into Action

In a world of accelerating complexity, the ability to make fast, evidence-based decisions is a defining capability for modern government. This session explores how public sector organisations are moving beyond dashboards and reports to embed data directly into decision-making processes - from frontline services to strategic planning.

Beyond the Pilot - Making AI Work for Government

AI is everywhere in strategy documents - but far rarer in operational reality. This panel brings together senior public sector leaders and AI experts to explore how government can move from isolated pilots to scaled, trusted AI adoption. What does it really take to embed AI where it matters - in frontline services, policy design, and citizen outcomes?

Practical AI for Local Government - Lessons from the Frontline

For local authorities, AI presents exciting opportunities to improve efficiency and deliver more proactive, personalised services - but success depends on getting the foundations right. This session explores how councils are moving from pilot projects to operational impact, with a focus on data readiness, capability building, and smart partnerships.

Featuring insights from the work of the London Office of Technology and Innovation (LOTI), we’ll look at how boroughs are applying AI to challenges like housing, social care, and citizen engagement - and what other regions can learn from their collaborative, problem-led approach to innovation.

Join us for a drink or two to network with your colleagues from across the public sector, and get to know our invited guest speakers and discussion co-hosts better.

We already look forward to welcoming you to next year's Summit!