The City of Oakland has announced a new initiative to explore the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving public services. The city’s AI Working Group (AIWG), formed in 2024, is leading this effort by releasing a Request for Information (RFI) aimed at AI companies and researchers. The goal is to gather ideas for applying AI tools and technologies to address specific challenges identified by various city departments.
Over the past year, the AIWG has developed an AI Equity Statement to guide all projects involving artificial intelligence. The group has also started testing Microsoft Copilot 365 as a personal assistant for staff, with its impacts being studied through a graduate research project funded by Northeastern University Oakland (Mills College).
In addition to these pilot programs, the working group is implementing a data governance program and data classification policy. This policy is designed to automatically prevent sensitive data from being accessed by AI systems, emphasizing security, privacy, and equity in every project.
The RFI represents an expansion of the group’s work from foundational policies toward inviting external partners to propose innovative solutions using AI across city operations.
Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee said, “We’ve identified real opportunities where AI can help make it easier for Oaklanders to access City services. This request for information invites innovative partners to pilot these solutions with us. We’re taking a deliberate approach that ensures any technology we adopt has appropriate guardrails, serves our community equitably and strengthens our ability to serve Oakland’s residents.”
Deputy City Administrator Joe DeVries, who co-leads the working group, added: “Convening a group representing every City department with ITD Director, Tony Batalla has allowed us to take a comprehensive approach to addressing people’s concerns about this emerging technology while tapping into their creativity and wisdom about their own department’s mission in serving Oaklanders.”
The working group has published 30 potential use cases where artificial intelligence could benefit both residents and city staff. These pilot projects aim to address daily operational challenges and improve outcomes such as saving time, increasing transparency, expanding access to services, and supporting underserved communities.
Selected partners will participate in a 16-week pilot program at no cost. They will receive feedback from city staff while demonstrating their solutions in a government setting. Projects that prove successful may be considered for future procurement opportunities.
Interested parties are asked to submit proposals including details on their background, chosen use case(s), solution plans, success metrics, and supporting materials.
Further information about the program and how to access the full RFI document can be found on the city’s website.
This announcement was partially generated using Microsoft 365 Copilot and edited by city staff.
