Public services in the UK are undergoing major transformation as government pushes toward a truly digital future. The Blueprint for Modern Digital Government outlines ambitious goals, including a unified Digital Centre under DSIT, a twentyfold increase in public sector computing power by 2030, the rollout of the GOV.UK App and Wallet, and wider use of AI across services. Significant investment is already underway, with more than £573 million in AI contracts awarded in 2025 and potential long-term efficiency savings worth up to £45 billion a year.
Despite the momentum, challenges remain. Many essential services still rely on legacy systems, cybersecurity threats continue to grow, digital exclusion affects communities across the country and ethical questions around AI require stronger transparency and governance. Local authorities also face financial constraints that limit their ability to modernise at the pace they would like.
The Institute of Government & Public Policy’s National GovTech Show and Exhibition 2026 will bring together leaders from central and local government, the wider public sector and technology innovators to address these issues. The event will highlight practical approaches to cyber resilience, cultural change, service innovation and collaboration.
Attendees will explore themes including AI and data-driven government, strengthening cybersecurity, improving procurement and designing more inclusive, citizen-focused services.
