In the context of digital transformation, the concept of GovTech has emerged as pivotal at the intersection between governance and technology. It encompasses multiple dimensions and perspectives: from bureaucratic inertia to data silos, GovTech addresses a spectrum of challenges and posits a future where governments operate with agility and innovation. Indeed, there is a general agreement on the multiple benefits of embracing GovTech solutions, such as streamlined administrative processes, fostered transparency, and elevated quality of public services. However, notwithstanding this generalised consensus on their positive impact, there does not seem to exist a universally agreed definition for such solutions. Yet, according to the Joint Research Centre (JRC)’s Report on GovTech Practices in the EU, most conceptualisations share the following common approach when defining GovTech: public sector engagement with start-ups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for the provision of tech-based solutions to innovate and improve public services. In fact, the Interoperable Europe Act (IEA)’s definition of GovTech reflects the aforementioned by describing it as “technology-based cooperations between public and private sector actors supporting public sector digital transformation”. 

This article delves into this topic by exploring the key position that it retains within the IEA, and presents some use cases and good practices, both in Europe and beyond. In its conclusion, it provides further supporting material and resources on GovTech solutions to continue the conversation and encourage the adoption of these technologies in governmental processes at all levels.

The IEA has come into force on 11 April 2024, marking a significant step towards seamless cross-border interoperability of trans-European digital public services. This legislation is designed to foster a cooperative framework across EU public administrations, ensuring that the delivery of public services is not hindered by national borders. Central to this initiative is the role of GovTech, which is recognised as a pivotal force in driving public sector innovation and strategic digital transformation. In addition to providing a definition of GovTech, the IEA also dedicates two preambulatory clauses and four of its articles to this topic, which showcases the importance that policymakers bestowed to it, in line with the EU’s digital strategy objectives. 

The preambulatory clauses, in fact, emphasise the importance of collaboration and innovation within the GovTech sector. On the one hand, clause 39 advocates for a cooperative approach among all levels of administration and innovative organisations, and underlines the significance of fostering a GovTech ecosystem that is open and inclusive. On the other hand, clause 40 focuses on the identification of common innovation needs and priorities, suggesting that by concentrating efforts and sharing risks, public sector bodies can benefit from the collective experience and outcomes. 

By taking a closer look at the relevant articles, it is possible to notice that Article 10 focuses on fostering innovation within the realm of interoperability solutions across the Union. It also empowers the Interoperable Europe Board to recommend the creation of innovation measures, which are designed to enhance and support both existing and new interoperable solutions, potentially involving GovTech stakeholders. What is more, it suggests the formation of an interoperability regulatory sandbox to aid in the development of these measures, and mandates that the outcomes of such innovation measures should be made publicly accessible via the Interoperable Europe portal [1], ensuring transparency and widespread availability of information.

Articles 11 and 12 also underline the relevance of GovTech solutions by tackling interoperability regulatory sandboxes. More concretely, Article 11 establishes their framework, underlying that they are designed to be operated by Union entities or public sector bodies. Within this article, GovTech is included in clause 2.c, which addresses the development of an open European GovTech ecosystem, by emphasising the importance of collaboration with SMEs, research and educational institutions, and start-ups to foster innovation and support the digital transformation of public services across Europe. Article 12, for its part, focuses on the participation in interoperability regulatory sandboxes, allowing for the inclusion of various actors like standardisation organisations, research labs, and companies, especially SMEs and start-ups, to test innovative solutions. 

Furthermore, Article 20 contributes to establish a comprehensive framework for monitoring and evaluating the progress of trans-European digital public services. The Commission is tasked with overseeing this development to support evidence-based policymaking across the Union at various levels. Among the specific areas of interest outlined in the Article is GovTech, which refers to developing open source interoperability solutions for public services, fostering public sector innovation, and promoting cooperation with GovTech actors, including SMEs and start-ups. 

Having explored the fundamental concepts and central position of GovTech solutions within the IEA, it is important to highlight specific initiatives driving this transformation. This section points out key actions taken at the national, EU, and international levels, showcasing the diverse approaches and collaborative efforts fostering innovation in digital governance.

Over the past few years, several EU Member States have adopted national initiatives to transform their public services and foster innovation at the national level. Examples include: the Digital Backpack Programme (Bulgaria), SKIALabs (The Netherlands), the Justice GovTech Strategy (Portugal), and GovTech Lab (Lithuania).

At the EU level, several initiatives have been established, such as #GovTech4all and the GovTech Connect Boot Camp.

On the international arena, organisations like the OECD and the World Bank are also playing pivotal roles in promoting GovTech solutions, such as the Digital Government Index (DGI) by the OECD, and the GovTech Maturity Index (GTMI) and the GovTech Global Partnership (GTGP) by the World Bank.

This article has explored the key role of GovTech in driving the digital transformation of governance. Following the conceptualisation of GovTech, its central position within the IEA has been reviewed. By defining GovTech as technology-based cooperation between public and private sectors, the IEA sets a framework for enhancing public services, fostering transparency, and promoting strategic digital transformation. National and EU initiatives, along with international efforts, highlight how GovTech can streamline administrative processes, engage citizens, and improve the quality of public services.

For those looking to delve deeper into the GovTech ecosystem, dedicated resources, such as GovTech Connect and the Public Sector Tech Watch, offer extensive information and updates. These platforms provide valuable insights into the latest developments and good practices in digital governance. Moreover, various training courses developed by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund are available to enhance knowledge and skills in this field. These resources are crucial for anyone involved or interested in the digital transformation of public services, helping to drive innovation and improving governance practices worldwide.

[1] Please note that Joinup is currently transitioning towards becoming the Interoperable Europe portal.