Espoo has, for example, experimented whether artificial intelligence can identify, based on data, customer groups that need special support. Currently, Espoo, in cooperation with other large cities, is exploring how OmaData (MyData) could be used in the development of the city's services. Espoo has also become a member of the Finnish Centre for Artificial Intelligence (FCAI). FCAI's objective is to make the most advanced methods of artificial intelligence available to enterprises, organisations and society.

“By using data in an innovative and ethical way, taking into account data security and data protection, we can provide our clients with smoother and more effective services in a proactive and economically sustainable manner. Data and technologies such as artificial intelligence also help to create completely new service innovations for the needs of a sustainable future. Espoo acts as a pioneer in the sustainable development of municipal services,” says Espoo’s Director for City as a Service Development Päivi Sutinen.

The event awarded a total of ten cities for different themes. Netexplo is a UNESCO partner organisation that, supported by its international university network, studies the impact of digital technologies on society and businesses.