European cities like Bucharest (Romania), Lisbon (Portugal), and Wolfsburg (Germany) are paving the way for the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) in local governance. These cities recently came together during the European Urban Resilience Forum (EURESFO 2025) in Rotterdam to exchange experiences and lessons from ICLEI Europe’s AI Opportunity Fund (AIOF) training. The key question during the discussions: How can municipalities develop the internal expertise needed to harness AI effectively and responsibly?
AI remains a sensitive and often misunderstood topic within many local governments across Europe. Concerns around data protection, low AI literacy, limited interdisciplinary expertise, and underdeveloped IT infrastructure present significant challenges. Participants reflected on how these barriers prevent cities from even beginning conversations about AI, let alone implementing it. Yet, one powerful insight emerged: when given space to learn, reflect, and test tools like ChatGPT in a structured, supportive environment, city officials quickly build confidence and develop the critical capacity to assess where AI adds value.
The AIOF training, led by ICLEI Europe in partnership with Google.org and the Centre for Public Impact (CPI), equips European city officials with the foundational AI skills needed to drive smarter, more sustainable policy and planning. Based on the Elements of AI course, it combines self-paced modules and live workshops over four weeks. So far, more than 45 participants from five cohorts across Europe have taken part, forming a growing network of AI-literate local leaders. This initiative supports ICLEI Europe’s broader mission to guide cities through digital transformation with sustainability, transparency, and public benefit at the core.
Is your city ready to shape the future of ethical and impactful AI?
Apply now: AI Opportunity Fund Application Form.