On Tuesday 20th January, Iain Streeter, attended a virtual Supplier Town Hall for the Prime Minister’s AI Exemplars Programme, following significant work he has led in this area on behalf of the business. The session was led by the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology and supported by the Government Digital Service. It was hosted by a senior Civil Service procurement lead, who outlined how government intends to engage suppliers as the programme moves from policy into delivery.

Launched in March 2025, the programme brings together 15 high-profile AI projects across eight major government departments, spanning health, justice, welfare and revenue. Its ambition is clear: to demonstrate how AI can drive real productivity gains and transform public services, not just through pilots, but at scale.

The hour-long session set out how the programme will take a “test and learn” approach, prioritising rapid progress, evidence-based decision-making and the sharing of lessons across government. GDS will play a hands-on role as the digital centre of excellence, providing AI delivery expertise, assurance and capability uplift to departments ready to move quickly.

This engagement builds directly on one of the public-sector submissions that Iain led for DSIT into the AI Exemplars Programme and positions us strongly for the next phase of the programme, including a likely invitation to tender. As the programme signals a decisive shift from exploring AI to operationalising it across government, it represents a significant opportunity for BIP, with procurement activity progressing through early 2026 and contracts expected to commence from April 2026.

The key take-home message from the presentation was clear: AI delivery in government is accelerating, and departments are actively seeking experienced partners who can help turn ambition into impact, quickly, securely and at scale.

This is exciting news, and a strong indication that AI-led transformation in government is not just coming, but happening now. Well done to Iain for the hard work that has helped position us so strongly.