Eligible projects must demonstrate the applied use of artificial intelligence or machine learning, including but not limited to data-driven automation, predictive systems, natural language processing, computer vision, or decision-support systems.

Solutions should show clear application beyond conceptual research and be operational or demonstrably piloted within a real-world context.

All categories are assessed against five criteria:

•Impact (measurable outcomes and value created)
• Innovation & AI Quality (sound approach, originality, performance)
• Scalability & Sustainability (viability, adoption, long-term value)
• Ethics, Responsibility & Transparency (fairness, explainability, human impact)
• Governance, Compliance & Data Stewardship (privacy, security, oversight)
• Public sector teams and cross-sector partnerships

Category-specific requirements may apply for regulated sectors (e.g., healthcare, finance, public service).