The AI-Driven Local Governance program, developed by NOVA Information Management School (NOVA IMS) in partnership with The Governance Lab (The GovLab) at New York University (NYU), has been selected for funding under the FLAD UP – Higher Education 2025/2026 Program.

Designed for senior leaders in local administration, the program aims to equip public executives with the strategic, analytical, and technological skills needed to design and implement evidence-based policies. It leverages the potential of data science, information management, and artificial intelligence to support smarter, more informed governance.

The program is structured in two phases: a hybrid component in Portugal, jointly taught by NOVA IMS and The GovLab, and an immersive week in New York City, with sessions hosted by leading international organizations, academic institutions, and public sector innovation offices

Aligned with Portugal’s National Strategy for Smart Territories (ENTI), AI-Driven Local Governance promotes the creation of smart, inclusive, and sustainable territories, helping local governments bridge digital maturity gaps and improve quality of life and well-being.

This initiative brings together two leading institutions in the application of data and AI to public governance. Together, they are building a platform for global collaboration and learning, connecting Portugal and the United States around a shared vision: using knowledge to drive more informed, transparent, and human-centered governance.