Applications Open for Dragons' Den-style Civil Service AI Challenge to Cut Waits, Tackle Fraud and Advance Net Zero

Civil servants invited to pitch AI fixes for public services in Dragons' Den-style challenge

Published: 17 September 2025

Applications are open for a cross-government challenge to test AI and data ideas that improve how the state works - from cutting GP appointment waitlists and tackling benefit fraud to helping firms grow exports and accelerating progress on net zero.

The winning team receives £50,000 in funding and hands-on technical support from NTT DATA, plus backing from senior civil servants to move from concept to delivery. The initiative supports the government's Plan for Change and its goal of delivering £45 billion in productivity savings through the smart use of AI and technology.

What's different this year

The format is simple and focused: civil servants pitch in a Dragons' Den-style process, refine ideas with expert coaching, and build prototypes that solve real operational problems. Previous rounds have drawn hundreds of entries from across departments and professions.

Past ideas include optimising prison space and detecting modern slavery. One winning project used AI and aerial imagery to map peatland surface features, helping policymakers assess erosion and restoration efforts. That approach now supports peatland mapping across England via the England Peat Map and informs work on carbon storage, flood prevention and habitats.

Why this matters for your team

• Direct route to test an AI or data idea with funding and expert support
• Visibility and sponsorship from senior leaders to unblock delivery
• Practical benefits for services under pressure: fraud reduction, faster casework, better targeting of resources

What leaders are saying

Technology Minister Ian Murray said the challenge invites bold, practical ideas from every corner of government to cut waiting times, reduce fraud and help businesses grow - all with a clear focus on productivity and delivery under the Plan for Change.

David Filmer, NTT DATA UK&I's Head of Public Sector, said innovation improves when civil servants get time, support and guidance to develop solutions. You can bring your own idea or join a project team - all professions, roles and grades are welcome.

How to apply

• Who can apply: All civil servants, across any department, profession and grade
• What to submit: AI or data-led ideas, or join a team to solve technical challenges in government or wider society
• Deadline: Wednesday 5 November 2025
• Award: £50,000 funding, technical support from NTT DATA, and senior Civil Service sponsorship
• Where to apply: datachallenge.uk

Make your bid stronger

• Define the problem in one sentence, the users affected, and the measurable outcome you will deliver within 6-12 months
• List the data you need, its owner, and how you will address privacy, security and bias from day one
• Outline the delivery path: quick proof-of-concept, integration plan, and costs to scale if successful

Skills and upskilling

If your team needs a rapid skills tune-up before applying, explore curated AI training by role to sharpen your approach to data, prompt design and automation: AI courses by job role.

Key dates and contacts

• Applications open: now
• Applications close: Wednesday 5 November 2025
• Media enquiries (DSIT): press@dsit.gov.uk | 020 7215 3000 (Mon-Fri, 8:30am-6pm)

If you have an idea that can reduce queues, speed up casework or improve decisions, submit it. If you don't, join a team that does. This is a practical route to ship something useful - and prove the value fast.