Public sector organisations across Scotland are being invited to put forward ‘bold ideas’ for how artificial intelligence can transform services, improve outcomes, and unlock new efficiencies – as the Futurescot AI Challenge 2026 officially launches today.
Now in its third year, the Challenge continues to build momentum as a flagship initiative for responsible AI adoption in Scotland’s public sector.
Delivered by Futurescot in partnership with Storm ID, the 2026 programme will once again bring together organisations from across government, local authorities, health and beyond to turn promising ideas into practical, scalable proofs of concept.
Following a strong 2025 Challenge, which saw VisitScotland, NHS Grampian and Dumfries and Galloway Council develop high potential AI solutions, the next wave of innovation will focus on maximising opportunities for collaboration.
The Challenges will welcome submissions from two or more public sector organisations coming together around a shared challenge or opportunity.
Joint submissions could be especially powerful where common pressures exist across services, sectors or geographies, creating the potential for solutions that are more reusable, scalable and valuable across the public sector.
“Over the past two years, we’ve seen just how powerful this Challenge can be in surfacing ideas that genuinely move the dial for public services,” said Hamish Miller, Futurescot director. “There’s real excitement about what 2026 will bring, not just in terms of new use cases, but in how organisations are thinking about applying AI responsibly and at scale. We’d also be hugely encouraged to see collaborative submissions, where organisations come together around shared problems and shared ambition.”
From idea to proof of concept
The Challenge is designed to support organisations through a structured journey, from initial concept through to a more developed proof of concept, with expert input and peer learning along the way.
Entries are now open, with submissions closing on June 17. Shortlisted organisations will then work alongside Storm ID to explore feasibility and develop their ideas into working proofs of concept, ahead of a final showcase at Digital Scotland 2026 in November.
“What makes the AI Challenge distinctive is its focus on delivery,” said Stewart Cruickshank at Storm ID. “This is about identifying real public service challenges and shaping practical AI solutions that can be tested, refined and ultimately scaled. We’re excited to once again support organisations in turning strong ideas into something tangible, and we’d be particularly interested to see collaborative proposals where multiple organisations are tackling a common issue together.”
Supporting organisations to take part
To help organisations shape strong submissions, the 2026 Challenge will be supported by a series of sector-focused webinars covering local government, NHS Scotland and the wider public sector.
These sessions will explore common challenges, highlight emerging AI use cases, and provide practical guidance on developing ideas into credible, high value proofs of concept. They are intended not only to support individual applicants, but also to spark discussion between organisations that may be facing similar issues and could benefit from working together.
The Challenge is open to all parts of Scotland’s public sector, including Scottish Government, local authorities, health and social care organisations, agencies and arm’s-length bodies.
A more participative approach in 2026
This year will also introduce a new Audience Choice element, giving the wider public sector community a greater role in recognising the most impactful ideas.
Shortlisted teams will produce videos showcasing their proofs of concept, with a public vote taking place in advance of Digital Scotland 2026. The Audience Choice winner will be announced at the event in November.
Building on a growing movement
As pressure continues to grow on public services, the Challenge aims to demonstrate how AI can be applied in a way that is practical, responsible and focused on real-world impact, helping organisations do more with limited resources while improving outcomes for citizens and communities.
By encouraging ambitious thinking, practical delivery and greater collaboration, the Challenge is designed not only to spotlight individual innovation, but to help build momentum around shared approaches to common public sector challenges.
“There’s a growing interest across the public sector in how AI can be used to automate tasks, support staff and improve services,” added Cruickshank. “The Challenge is about harnessing that momentum and turning it into something concrete. If we can also create the conditions for more organisations to collaborate around shared challenges, that’s where the opportunity becomes even more exciting.”
Entries now open
Public sector organisations across Scotland are invited to submit their ideas now.
For more information and to apply, visit: aichallenge.scot
Partner Content in association with Storm ID