What does it take to turn national digital ambition into real-world impact across every region of the UK? 

Public services are entering a defining era of transformation. The government’s Blueprint for Modern Digital Government has set a bold direction, bringing together digital leadership under DSIT and committing to scaled innovation through the GOV.UK App, AI deployment, and the National Data Library. Alongside this, local government reorganisation is reshaping structures and responsibilities across the country, creating both opportunity and uncertainty for digital delivery.  

Yet significant challenges remain. Legacy IT systems continue to underpin critical services, cyber threats are increasing in scale and sophistication, and financial pressures are limiting the ability of local authorities to invest. At the same time, digital exclusion persists across communities, and questions around data governance, ethics, and public trust are becoming more urgent as AI adoption accelerates. 

The Institute of Government & Public Policy’s Annual GovTech Show 2026 in Greater Manchester will bring together senior leaders from central government, local authorities, the NHS, and the wider public sector, alongside industry innovators. This event will explore how national strategy translates into local delivery, with a focus on regional innovation, collaboration, and practical implementation. 

Join the Institute of Government & Public Policy at the Annual GovTech Show and Exhibition 2026 to explore practical solutions to the sector's most pressing challenges. Themes will include AI and data-driven government, cyber resilience, and local government reorganisation.