GovAI Coalition and Pavilion introduce AI contract hub

The GovAI Coalition has launched the AI Contract Hub, a platform designed to support government agencies in procuring artificial intelligence (AI) solutions.

The initiative, developed in partnership with Pavilion, aims to streamline AI-related procurement processes for local, state, and federal agencies.

‍“We’re at a pivotal moment where AI can transform how we serve our communities,” said Emily Royall and Kim Barnard, co-chairs of the GovAI Coalition Cooperative Purchasing Committee. “By building the AI Contract Hub, the GovAI Coalition is empowering public agencies to adopt AI more efficiently while ensuring these technologies align with the values and needs of the public sector.”

According to Pavilion, the use of AI in government has increased significantly in recent years. In the 2022 fiscal year, federal AI-related contracts amounted to US$3.3 billion, marking a 2.5-fold increase since 2017.

More than half of government employees at the federal, state, and local levels report using AI applications weekly. However, AI governance standards remain in early stages, leading to challenges in the procurement and implementation of AI technologies.

The AI Contract Hub serves as a shared repository of contract templates, cooperative agreements, and procurement best practices. It provides several functions aimed at optimising AI procurement:

• Reducing procurement costs and timelines: By sharing pre-existing contracts, agencies can expedite the procurement process and lower administrative expenses.
• Improving contract transparency and negotiation: Access to a centralised repository allows agencies to analyse contract terms and coordinate procurement efforts more effectively.
• Expanding access to AI vendors: The platform provides agencies with insight into a broader range of AI vendors, facilitating engagement with companies that have prior experience working with government entities.

Additionally, AI vendors gain access to public sector opportunities and insights into regulatory expectations through the platform. An informational webinar hosted by the GovAI Coalition and Pavilion is scheduled for 25 February, 2025, to provide further details on the initiative.

Mariel Reed, CEO and Founder of Pavilion, said: “Pavilion is proud to partner with GovAI Coalition to drive ethical and transparent AI adoption. Together, we’re equipping public agencies with the tools to shape AI procurement practices that benefit all stakeholders.”

Image: © Brad Calkins | Dreamstime.com