AI4Citizens and Pulssi Reach Finals in Europe-wide Innovation in Politics Awards

Tampere’s AI literacy project AI4Citizens and the city’s Pulssi app have been named finalists in the Innovation in Politics Awards. The two initiatives advance in separate categories of the Europe-wide competition, judged by a jury of more than a thousand citizens.

The Innovation in Politics Awards recognises political initiatives that strengthen democracy and civic life. AI4Citizens, led by Tampere, is shortlisted in the Strengthening Europe category for its work on responsible AI adoption in the public sector and for running open dialogue with residents. "The future of AI is not defined by technology alone; it is built together with people, strengthening trust, participation and democracy," says AI4Citizens project manager Aino-Maija Vaskelainen.

Pulssi, part of the Tampere.Finland city app, is a finalist in Digital Innovation & Governance. Irene Vekkeli, Tampere’s head of business and innovation, says the app is a practical municipal tool that helps entrepreneurs, residents and the city prepare for different situations. It also supports a lively city centre, she adds.

The nominations follow the city's earlier AI testing and international convenings. These included a June research-sparring session with Tampere University and a UN AI forum held in Tampere in September.