This year, our overarching theme is Governance in the Digital Age: Unlocking Public Value Through Data. The themes below explore various facets of this critical topic, exploring how data can be leveraged to foster better governance, enhance public services, and create meaningful value for citizens.
1. Building a Future-Ready Government with AI, Data, Digital Tools and Skills
We invite proposals that focus on cultivating the skills and knowledge necessary for individuals working at the intersection of government, technology, and open data to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape. This theme will explore innovative approaches to training, capacity building, and knowledge sharing. Presenters could highlight opportunities for public servants, data scientists, civic tech innovators, and other professionals to enhance their expertise in areas such as GenAI, data governance, digital service delivery, user-centered design, or open data management. Presenters might also examine strategies for fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth within government and the broader open data ecosystem in Canada.
2. Open Data & Transparent Government
Building upon GovMaker’s focus on practical government innovation and the Canadian Open Data Summit’s commitment to data liberation, this theme will explore strategies for enhancing transparency through proactive information disclosure, open data initiatives, and citizen engagement platforms.
Topics may include best practices for fostering trust, empowering citizens with access to government information and processes, and leveraging open data to drive evidence-based decision-making and public value.
Presenters are invited to examine the evolving landscape of open government, including challenges related to data quality, privacy, and equitable access, while highlighting successful models and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of transparent governance in Canada and beyond.
3. Economic Growth & Prosperity
Open data and innovative government practices can serve as powerful catalysts for economic development and shared prosperity. This theme will examine how governments can leverage open data to stimulate innovation, support entrepreneurship, and create new economic opportunities.
Submissions might highlight successful examples of data-driven economic initiatives, strategies for fostering public-private partnerships around data, or policy considerations for ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are inclusive and reach all segments of society. This theme also encompasses the role of open government in building a competitive and resilient economy for Canada in the 21st century.
4. Digital Transformation in Healthcare
Informed by GovMaker’s focus on digital innovation within government and the Canadian Open Data Summit’s emphasis on the power of open data, this theme will explore how digital tools, interoperable health records, and the ethical use of health data can lead to more efficient, accessible, and personalized healthcare systems. Proposals could cover topics such as the secure and responsible sharing of health information, the potential of artificial intelligence and machine learning in diagnostics and treatment, and strategies for leveraging open data to drive research, innovation, and evidence-based healthcare policy in Canada