Buying AI and Using AI in Procurement

The digitalisation of the public sector increasingly involves the procurement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other algorithmic solutions for their deployment across a wide spectrum of activities. The digitalisation of procurement itself also requires buying those same technologies. Buying AI for the public sector and using AI in procurement are thus intimately intertwined and present common regulatory, compliance and practical challenges.

This course offers participants an in-depth exploration of the intersection between AI and public procurement, providing a thorough understanding of regulatory frameworks, practical applications, and emerging trends. Throughout the programme, participants will acquire knowledge and strategies essential for navigating regulatory landscapes, effectively implementing AI solutions, and optimising operational performance.

The course begins by examining the basic AI principles in public procurement processes, emphasising the importance of compliance with regulatory frameworks, including the EU’s AI Act. By thoroughly examining, participants will gain insight into how these regulations impact high-risk definitions, exemptions, and obligations for public procurers, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of regulatory compliance. This will facilitate an understanding of the challenges in implementing the pilot model contractual clauses for AI procurement, as well as the need to focus on more practical instruments, such as technical standards.

Indeed, an integral aspect of the course lies in the discussion of proposed standards in cybersecurity and audit, as well as AI accuracy and explainability, including ISO and IEEE documents, and their implications for public procurement practices. Moving beyond theory, participants will engage in roundtable discussions and make use of practical applications to real-life scenarios, fostering a comprehensive approach to risk management and data protection. Special focus will be given to safeguarding sensitive data in procurement operations, aligning with best practices and proposed standards.

Facilitating knowledge exchange, these interactive sessions will provide a platform for practitioners at governmental and EU institution levels to share insights and experiences. This collaborative environment allows participants to develop strategies for integrating AI technologies effectively while navigating regulatory requirements and optimising decision-making processes in procurement practices.

This course presents a unique opportunity for public procurement professionals, policymakers, and individuals in the public sector to gain critical insights into the evolving landscape of AI-powered procurement, as well as more general approaches to the procurement of AI. By bridging theoretical foundations with practical applications, participants will emerge equipped to navigate regulatory complexities, drive innovation, and unlock the full potential of AI in public procurement.

Course methodology/highlights:

Key highlights include a comprehensive understanding of the dual interaction between AI and procurement, as procurement is both the mechanism for the public sector to buy that technology and a prime field for its deployment. This will be supported by a detailed exploration of the procurement and use of AI, focusing on regulatory compliance, with an emphasis on adherence to new regulatory frameworks, such as the EU’s AI Act.

Practical applications of AI in procurement, coupled with emerging technical standards, ensure that participants gain actionable insights.

Interactive sessions will encourage knowledge sharing among practitioners, promoting effective integration and robust risk management strategies.

Participants will emerge from this course equipped to engage in the procurement and deployment of AI in the public sector, including the use of AI to manage procurement processes, enabling them to navigate regulatory complexities with confidence and compliance. By mastering practical applications and technical standards, participants will enhance their ability to optimise procurement processes and mitigate risks in procurement workflows effectively.

Additionally, participants will receive presentation slides, additional learning materials, and online resources to support the application of their newly acquired knowledge and skills to their work.

At the end of the course, participants will receive a certificate of attendance. You will have access to the slides as well as additional learning material for a duration of six months after the course.

The course is intended for public procurement professionals, policy makers, and individuals in the public sector seeking to enhance their understanding of the dual interaction between AI and procurement.

This includes officials from national, sub-national, and local authorities, as well as other public bodies across EU Member States, candidate countries, and European organisations.

Additionally, private sector providers, professional advisers, and academics interested in navigating regulatory complexities and leveraging AI solutions effectively are encouraged to participate.

Project number: 2430809

Course venue – to be determined
Barcelona (ES)

Project Management Officer
Ms Belinda Vetter
Tel: +31 43 3296382
b.vetter@eipa.eu

Fee
The fee includes documentation, refreshments and lunches. Accommodation and travel costs are at the expense of the participants or their administration.

Discounts
EIPA member fee
EIPA offers a discount to all civil servants working for one of EIPA’s supporting countries, and civil servants working for an EU institution, body or agency.

Who are the supporting countries?
Civil servants coming from the following EIPA supporting countries are entitled to get the reduced fee: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden.

For all other participants, the regular fee applies.

Early bird discount
The early bird discount is not cumulative with other discounts or promo codes, except for the EIPA member fee.

Loyalty coupon
As a token of appreciation we offer all our participants a loyalty coupon for one of our future courses. The offer can be shared with colleagues and relevant networks. The coupon will expire one year after its release. This discount is not cumulative with other discounts, except for the EIPA member fee.

Meals
Dietary preferences can be indicated on the registration form.

Confirmation
Confirmation of registration will be forwarded to participants on receipt of the completed online registration form.

Payment
Prior payment is a condition for participation.

Cancellation policy
For administrative reasons you will be charged €150 for cancellations received within 15 days before the activity begins. There is no charge for qualified substitute participants.

EIPA reserves the right to cancel the activity up to 2 weeks before the starting date. In that case, registration fees received will be fully reimbursed. EIPA accepts no responsibility for any costs incurred (travel, accommodation, etc.).

A few days before the start of the course you will receive the log-in details for accessing the course materials. You can log in here.