Government Digital Service has partnered with NTT DATA, Global Government Forum and the Cabinet Office for the fourth year running to deliver the Civil Service AI and Data Challenge. This competition empowers civil servants in all departments, professions and grades to develop innovative AI or data solutions that improve public services and drive government priorities forward.
With the government's focus on kickstarting economic growth through innovation and technology adoption, this challenge offers a unique opportunity to contribute directly to national objectives while developing civil servants’ skills, contacts and careers.
Transforming ideas into national impact
Previous winners demonstrate the real-world potential of this competition. Nick Tomline, Earth Observation Higher Data Scientist at Natural England, led the AI4Peat project that won in 2022. Three years on, his team has created the UK's first comprehensive map of peatland drainage networks using artificial intelligence.
"The AI4Peat project filled a critical national evidence gap," explains Nick. "Previously, mapping drainage systems in peat bogs was impossible at national scale due to manual mapping constraints. Our AI approach now enables us to prioritise restoration efforts for maximum environmental benefit."
The project's impact extends far beyond environmental mapping. By identifying where drainage networks exist, the team supports biodiversity net gain and reduces CO2 emissions through targeted peatland restoration. They've also established valuable partnerships with technology leaders Microsoft and Databricks while building specialist AI expertise within government.
"We've created an end-to-end pipeline that gives Natural England and Defra capability to solve other geospatial problems at national scale," Nick adds. "The 'AI4' approach we pioneered is now being applied across other government use cases, offering substantial efficiency opportunities."
John Saunders, a product manager at the Ministry of Justice, led Project Constellation to victory in 2024. His experience highlights how the challenge accelerates both professional and personal development.
"The competition proved to be a catalyst for growth," John reflects. "I stepped outside my usual remit, took on unfamiliar challenges, and developed new skills – particularly in crafting compelling presentations for senior judge panels."
Career-defining opportunities
Both winners emphasise the Challenge's unique professional development benefits. Participants gain hands-on project management experience, team leadership skills, and the ability to present confidently to senior audiences. The competition also creates networking opportunities to work with senior Civil Service leaders you wouldn't normally encounter.
"The collaborative, cross-department approach enabled us to break down traditional silos and address government priorities more effectively," explains the AI4Peat team. "The competition provided a springboard for turning our innovative idea into a high-profile project, opening doors that couldn't have come about through conventional means."
John's experience mirrors this sentiment: "Winning created opportunities to connect with senior leaders across the Civil Service and exchange ideas in a collaborative, high-energy environment. It's had a tangible impact on my career trajectory."
What you need to know
Applying for the Challenge is simple, civil servants only need to draft a 400-word submission, exploring an idea to make better use of AI or data in government. Participating in the programme requires commitment and support. Civil servants will need backing from a line manager, as you will need to dedicate part of your working week to developing an entry and collaborating with team members.
However, both winners strongly recommend participation. "It's a rare opportunity to strengthen stakeholder engagement skills, sharpen strategic thinking, and test your ability to take concepts from idea to delivery in a high-profile, fast-paced setting," says John. "The connections you make could shape the next stage of your Civil Service career."
Ready to innovate?
The Civil Service AI and Data Challenge 2025 is now open for entries. Whether your idea tackles economic growth, public service efficiency, or emerging technology adoption, this competition offers an unparalleled platform to drive meaningful change.
Entrants can also apply to join one of the interdisciplinary, cross-departmental project teams, supporting a data or AI idea. The deadline for applications is Wednesday 5 November 2025.
Don't miss this opportunity to transform innovative thinking into national impact while accelerating your career development. Enter the Civil Service AI and Data Challenge today at https://datachallenge.uk/.
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