Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Programme 2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B NEXT Black Sea Basin

Date of latest update: 2026-09-07

Description

Description (EN):

Common Challenge The AI4Capacity project addresses a significant challenge faced by small and medium sized public organizations, particularly local authorities: the need for enhanced administrative capacities and efficient management frameworks. In the programme area, these organizations often struggle with limited resources, outdated administrative practices, and varying levels of governance efficiency. These challenges hinder their ability to effectively serve their communities and manage cross-border cooperation initiatives. Overall Project Objective and Expected Change The primary objective of AI4Capacity is to promote and implement capacity-building tools such as the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) (*) and Management by Objectives (MbO) (**) system within small and medium public organizations. By integrating an AI Suite, designed to support these frameworks, the project aims to modernize administrative processes, improve decision-making, and enhance the overall efficiency of public service delivery. The expected change is a significant improvement in the administrative capacities of local authorities, leading to more effective governance, increased transparency, and better service outcomes for the communities they serve. Main outcomes: - AI Suite: A tailored AI Suite will be developed to support the implementation of CAF and MbO. This tool will streamline administrative tasks, provide data-driven insights, and facilitate more efficient resource management. - Training: A comprehensive training package will be created and delivered to 32 partners' staff members. This training will equip them with the skills needed to implement CAF and MbO effectively. - Pilot Implementations: The project will conduct pilot implementations of CAF and MbO in four organizations, providing real-world testing and refinement opportunities. - Assessment and Refinement: Post-pilot assessments will be conducted to refine the AI Suite based on user feedback and performance data. - Expansion and Capitalization: The project will promote the reuse of knowledge and tools developed through regional demonstration events, training courses for 240 public servants, and individualized support for 40 public entities. - EduLab Platform: An "EduLab" platform will be established, combining an Open Educational Resource (OER) with a Living Lab to support ongoing education and innovation in public administration. - AI4Capacity Network: A transnational network will be created to ensure the durability and transferability of the project's outputs and results. Beneficiaries: The primary beneficiaries of the project are local public authorities. By enhancing their administrative capacity, they will be better equipped to manage resources and deliver public services. Additionally, higher education and research institutions will benefit from access to the EduLab platform and the data generated by the project, supporting academic research and professional development. Ultimately, the communities served by these authorities will benefit from improved governance and more efficient public services. Planned Approach - Transnational Cooperation AI4Capacity employs a collaborative approach, bringing together partners from GR, BG, and TR to develop, implement, and refine the project’s tools and methodologies. Transnational cooperation is essential for several reasons: - Shared Expertise: Partners bring diverse experiences and expertise, enhancing the quality and relevance of the project’s outputs. - Cross-Border Challenges: The administrative challenges faced by local authorities in the Black Sea region are similar across borders, necessitating a unified approach. - Resource Efficiency: Collaborative efforts allow for the pooling of resources and knowledge, reducing duplication and increasing the project’s impact. Innovative and Original Aspects: The project’s innovative approach lies in its integration of AI technologies to support traditional management frameworks like CAF and MbO. By leveraging AI, the project introduces advanced data analytics and automation into public administration, a relatively new concept in the region. The creation of the EduLab platform and the establishment of the AI4Capacity Network are also novel, providing sustainable avenues for ongoing education, collaboration, and the dissemination of best practices. After all the above, it is clear that this project is a significantly efficient investment in the project area (*) CAF is a unique management tool for self-assessment and performance evaluation for public organisations. Developed and recognized by the EU, it is considered as the European quality tool for good governance and excellence in the public sector, with a focus on digitalisation, agility, sustainability, diversity and innovation. (**) MbO is a strategic management model that aims to improve the performance of an organization by clearly defining objectives that are agreed to by both management and employees.

Actual Achievements (EN):

During the first reporting period, the AI4Capacity partnership established the organisational, technical, and communication foundations for implementing the project. The initial phase focused on launching the project, establishing coordination structures, initiating development of the AI Suite, and preparing the framework for planned capacity-building activities. The Lead Partner, Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH), formally launched the project at the Kick-off Meeting in Xanthi on 10 December 2025. At the meeting, partners agreed on project objectives, defined governance arrangements, explained reporting procedures, and outlined the overall implementation roadmap. The Steering Committee and the Technical Sub-Committee were formed, ensuring structured coordination and technical cooperation across the partnership. In parallel, the Lead Partner began conceptual and functional design of the AI Suite to support the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) and Management by Objectives (MbO) in public authorities. The team presented and discussed the preliminary architecture and main functionalities with partners, initiating a joint co-design process. Partner organisations identified relevant administrative workflows and operational needs within their institutions. Partners also undertook initial communication and dissemination activities. UBBSLA developed a dedicated project webpage and began outreach actions towards Bulgarian municipalities. The Municipality of Topeiros prepared the project’s visual identity material, including the logo and promotional content, and supported dissemination through local media. Catalca District Governorate initiated local stakeholder engagement activities, launched social media communication, and published the first electronic newsletter. Furthermore, preparatory work began for the project training programme, including defining the training framework and preparing initial training materials, while partners began internal coordination to identify participants. Overall, the first reporting period laid the organisational and technical groundwork and strengthened cooperation among partners from Greece, Bulgaria, and Türkiye, creating favourable conditions for developing and implementing the AI4Capacity tools and activities.

Project outputs: Training and pilot implementations of CAF & MbO(EN)
Joint implementation of the project – AI4Capacity Network(EN)
Online solutions supporting the implementation of CAF ana MbO(EN)

Thematic information

ICT and digital society Institutional cooperation and cooperation networks Community integration and common identity

Priority: (VI-B_BSB_P3) Competent and Resilient Region

Priority specific objective: ISO6.3. Build up mutual trust, in particular by encouraging people-to-people actions (strands A, D and, where appropriate, strand B)

Priority policy objective (Interreg specific objective): PO6 (ISO1) A better cooperation governance

Type of intervention: 173 Enhancing institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders to implement territorial cooperation projects and initiatives in a cross-border, transnational, maritime and inter-regional context

Partners (4)

Lead Partner: ΔΗΜΟΚΡΙΤΕΙΟ ΠΑΝΕΠΙΣΤΗΜΙΟ ΘΡΑΚΗΣ - ΠΟΛΥΤΕΧΝΙΚΗ ΣΧΟΛΗ - ΕΙΔΙΚΟΣ ΛΟΓΑΡΙΑΣΜΟΣ ΚΟΝΔΥΛΙΩΝ ΕΡΕΥΝΑΣ

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 999659109

Partner’s ID if not PIC: EL999975749 | N/A | N/A (EN)

Department: School of Engineering

Address: V. Sophias Str., 67100 Xanthi, Greece

Department address: V. Sophias Str., 6700 Xanthi, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Higher education and research organisations

Website: http://www.duth.gr

Total budget: EUR 193 200.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 173 880.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 19 320.00

Çatalca Kaymakamlığı

Name: Çatalca Kaymakamlığı

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 906427268

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 2310351311 | N/A | N/A (EN)

Address: Kaleiçi Mah. Cumhuriyet Meydanı, 34540 Catalca, Turkey

Department address: Kaleiçi Mah. Cumhuriyet Meydanı, 34540 Catalca, Turkey

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://www.catalca.gov.tr/

Total budget: EUR 124 530.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 112 077.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 12 453.00

Δήμος Τοπείρου

Name: Δήμος Τοπείρου

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 884331250

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 090379296 | N/A | N/A (EN)

Address: Evlalo, 67200 Evlalo, Greece

Department address: Evlalo, 67200 Evlalo, Greece

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Local public authority

Website: https://www.topeiros.gr

Total budget: EUR 110 040.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 99 036.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 11 004.00

Асоциация на Българските Черноморски Общини

Name: Асоциация на Българските Черноморски Общини

PIC (Participant Identification Code): 969558457

Partner’s ID if not PIC: 103133943 | N/A | N/A (EN)

Address: Breslav Str., 9000 Varna, Bulgaria

Department address: Breslav, 9000 Varna, Bulgaria

Legal status: public

Organisation type: Interest groups including NGOs

Website: http://www.ubbsla.org

Total budget: EUR 116 340.00

Partner’s programme co-financing: EUR 104 706.00

Partner’s programme co-financing rate: 90.00%

Partner contribution: EUR 11 634.00

Partners map

Partners and Projects info

Catalca District Governorate

Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Partners and Projects info

Municipality of Topeiros

Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Partners and Projects info

Union of Bulgarian Black Sea Local Authorities

Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Partners and Projects info

DEMOCRITUS UNIVERSITY OF THRACE - SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING - SPECIAL ACCOUNT FOR RESEARCH FUNDS

Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Lead partner

Project partner

Summary

Project name (EN): Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Project acronym: AI4Capacity

Project ID: BSB00708

Project start date: 2025-09-15

Project end date: 2027-03-14

Project status: ongoing

Relevant linked projects:

Programme: 2007 - 2013 Black Sea Basin ENI CBC
Project/ Initiative Name: Excellence in Public Sector
Acronym: EXCELLENCE
Code: MIS-ETC nr. 2670
https://keep.eu/projects/15782/EXCELLENCE-IN-PUBLIC-SECTOR-EN/
(EN) | The project EXCELLENCE aimed at introducing and applying the Common Assessment Framework (CAF) in public sector and was completed in November of 2015. In the framework of this project, the CAF was pilot implemented in 8 public organisations
One of the two capacity building tool introduced and tested in AI4Capacity project is CAF. However, the two projects do mot overlap because:
- AI4Capacity will promote the latest version of CAF 2020 that includes new requirements or concerns of the public sector such as digitalisation, the Agenda Europe 2020, the 17 SDGs etc
- CAF is complemented by MbO as an equally important capacity building tool
- The implementation will be supported by the AI Suite thus improving the methodology used in the previous project
- The proposed project will be implemented in a different area. There are no partners participating in both projects
- In AI4Capacity, the CAF training will be provided in a larger number of public servants (32 instead of 23) and the communication activities of the 2 projects are different
- AI4Capacity will develop the "EduLab"platform supporting lifelong learning/ professional development and engage public servants to learn, share, and innovate together
(EN), EIPA – European Institute of Public Administration
Supported by the EU Member States and the European Commission, EIPA has as core mission to provide a mix of deep insights and practical knowledge about EU policies, to all professionals related to EU public affairs. The Institute was created in 1981 on the occasion of the first European Council held in Maastricht and, since then, it serves officials in national and regional public administrations in Member States, in the European Commission itself, and in other EU institutions.
https://www.eipa.eu/areas-of-expertise/effective-public-administration/quality-management-caf/
(EN) | In the year 2000 EIPA created the European Common Assessment Framework (CAF) and since then it regularly updates it and tries to promote it in the public sector throughout Europe. Unfortunately, the CAF model is not very successfully disseminated and until now, only a small number of organisations have used it (estimated much less than 1%), while only 26 related best practices have been uploaded so far (May 24) since 2001
By introducing and promoting CAF to public organisations in the project area, the project AI4Capacity intends to promote and pilot implement the CAF in the public sector, acting complementary to EIPA towards its wider dissemination. Especially the development of AI Suite supporting the CAF implementation will make it easier and more effective, while the "EduLab" ensures the lifelong learning/ professional development and wide engagement of servants to learn, share, and innovate together. Moreover, the organisations that will implement the CAF and the staff that will be trained, will act as role models in their areas and the good practices that will be recorded will enrich the database of EIPA
(EN), Other projects granted by various programmes that meet the thematic objectives:
- (11) enhancing institutional capacity of public authorities and stakeholders and efficient public administration through actions to strengthen the institutional capacity and the efficiency of public administrations and public services related to the implementation of the ERDF, and in support of actions under the ESF to strengthen the institutional capacity and the efficiency of public administration.
(EN) | As the AI4Capacity project aims at increasing the managerial and innovation capacity of public organisations, supported by AI Suite, it creates obvious complementary synergies with granted projects meeting the thematic objective (11)
(EN), Other projects granted or to be granted by the Partnership Agreements 2014-2020 and 2021-2027 of various member states related to Capacity building, Innovation and transformation of the Public Sector and relevant issues (EN) | The Partnership agreements between the European Commission and individual EU countries set out the national authorities' plans on how to use EU funds. They include, inter alia measures to grant projects related to increase managerial and innovation capacity of public organisations that is the overall objective of the AI4Capacity project, the synergies being obvious (EN), Interact
Interreg C
https://www.interact-eu.net/
https://www.interact-eu.net/project-life-cycle-and-more/project-life-cycle/capitalisation
or
https://www.interact-eu.net/library/166 (EN) | Interact has developed the output entitled "Capitalisation Management Toolkit" including the following sectors:
- Overview and Structure infographic
- Capitalisation Toolkit 2.0 - Programming
- Capitalisation Toolkit 2.0 - Monitoring and evaluation
- Capitalisation Toolkit 2.0 - Implementing
- Capitalisation Toolkit 2.0 - Communication - dissemination of achievements
AI4Capacity project will exploit the toolkit by using it as a guide for the efficient and effective implementation of its communication and capitalisation activities (EN)

Total budget/expenditure: EUR 544 110.00

Total EU funding (amount): EUR 489 699.00

Total EU funding (co-financing rate): 90.00%

Co-financing sources:

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

(bullets are inserted automatically and may be incorrectly placed)

Contribution to wider strategies and policies:

EUStrategyAdriaticIonianRegion The AI4Capacity project contributes significantly to EUSAIR by aligning with its goals to enhance the region’s attractiveness, competitiveness, and connectivity. Specifically, the project supports EUSAIR’s focus on fostering cooperation and integrating the Western Balkans through strategic initiatives.
1. Alignment with EUSAIR Pillars: The project aligns closely with all 4 EUSAIR pillars. Although AI4Capacity does not directly engage with them, it is obvious that its emphasis on innovative administrative capacities indirectly supports all the pillars.
2. Technological and Administrative Innovation: The AI4Capacity project introduces advanced tools like the AI Suite and the EduLab platform, which foster improved administrative practices and policy-making across the region. This innovation contributes to the strategic objectives of enhancing governance and institutional capacities, as outlined in EUSAIR’s thematic areas.
3. Capacity Building and Professional Development: By focusing on training public administrators in the latest management frameworks and technologies, the project strengthens human capital in the region. This is directly relevant to EUSAIR's goals of improving competitiveness and governance quality
4. Transnational Collaboration: The establishment of the AI4Capacity Network fosters sustained cooperation among countries in the Adriatic-Ionian region. This directly supports EUSAIR's objective of enhancing regional cooperation and stability, which is essential for the socio-economic integration of the Western Balkans into the broader European framework.
In summary, AI4Capacity enhances EUSAIR’s overarching goals by embedding advanced technologies and collaborative frameworks in public administration, thereby boosting regional development and integration. This synergy is critical for achieving the long-term vision of a prosperous, competitive, and interconnected Adriatic-Ionian region.
EUStrategyDanubeRegion The AI4Capacity project significantly contributes to the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) by aligning its goals with the strategy's focus on improving administrative capacities and fostering cross-border cooperation. Here's how the project aligns with EUSDR and its impact:
Support for EUSDR Pillars
AI4Capacity enhances administrative efficiency through technological innovation and training, supporting the EUSDR's pillars related to strengthening institutional capacity and governance. Specifically, it directly contributes to the following Priority Areas (PAs)
- PA7: Knowledge Society – Pillar 3: By introducing and implementing the AI Suite and EduLab platform (A1.1 and A1.6)
- PA9: People and Skills – Pillar 3: By providing training to public servants (A1.2, A1.5)
- PA10: Institutional Capacity & Cooperation – Pillar 4: The entire project
Capacity Building
The project's comprehensive training programs in CAF and MbO methodologies bolster the professional skills of public administrators. This directly supports EUSDR's goal of improving competencies across the region, which is crucial for effective governance and regional development.
Cross-Border Collaboration
By establishing the AI4Capacity Network, the project fosters ongoing collaboration between public authorities and educational institutions across the Danube region. This network not only promotes the exchange of best practices but also ensures the sustainability and expansion of project impact, aligning with EUSDR's focus on enhancing cooperation across member states.
Innovative Administrative Tools
The AI Suite and "EduLab" platform are innovative solutions that contribute to the digitalization and modernization of public administration, a key aspect of the EUSDR's strategy to integrate advanced technologies across governance frameworks.
SeaBasinStrategyBlackSea The project aligns with CMA by enhancing administrative capabilities that indirectly support the sustainable development of the Blue Economy. Here’s a concise overview of its contribution:
Supporting CMA Goals - Sustainable Governance
While primarily focused on administrative efficiency, AI4Capacity indirectly aids sustainable management of maritime and coastal resources. Governance tools provided by the project (CAF & MbO), enhance data-driven decision-making within local authorities, crucial for effective maritime resource management.
Innovative Administrative Tools - AI Suite and EduLab
These platforms facilitate efficient resource management and policy implementation, crucial for the protection and sustainable use of marine environments. The tools enable local authorities to better enforce environmental regulations and support maritime safety measures aligned with the CMA's sustainability objectives.
Transnational Cooperation - AI4Capacity Network: The establishment of this network fosters collaboration among Black Sea countries, enhancing regional cooperation on maritime governance. It supports the CMA’s goal of strengthening regional dialogue and cooperative approaches to maritime challenges.
Capacity Building - Enhanced Local Authority Training
Training initiatives in the project equip public administrators with advanced skills in management and technology use, strengthening their role in environmental and maritime governance. This aligns with CMA’s focus on enhancing institutional capacities to support sustainable economic growth in the maritime sector.
In summary, the AI4Capacity project indirectly contributes to the CMA by providing innovative governance tools and fostering regional cooperation that enhances the management of the maritime sector, promoting a sustainable Blue Economy in the Black Sea region. Through these efforts, the project supports broader regional strategies aimed at environmental sustainability and effective maritime governance.
Other - UN 2030 Agenda and its 17 Sustainable Development Goals
The project contributes to the UN 2030 Agenda by directly supporting several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions) by enhancing public sector effectiveness through the implementation of CAF and MbO. The project also fosters SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) by creating a transnational network that promotes collaboration across borders. Furthermore, by improving administrative efficiencies and promoting sustainable governance, the project indirectly supports SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), contributing to resilient infrastructure and inclusive, sustainable urbanization.
https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals)
- Black Sea Synergy (BSS)
The AI4Capacity project aligns with and contributes to BSS by enhancing regional cooperation and governance capacity across Black Sea nations. By implementing CAF and MbO supported by advanced AI tools, the project strengthens administrative capabilities, fostering more effective and transparent public administrations. This directly supports the BSS goal of encouraging cooperation and sustainable development in the region challenges (https://www.eeas.europa.eu/eeas/black-sea-synergy_en)
- Strategic Research and Innovation Agenda (SRIA) for the Black Sea
The AI4Capacity project directly contributes to SRIA for the Black Sea by advancing administrative and governance capabilities through the application of AI technologies and innovative management frameworks. This supports SRIA's goals of enhancing regional research capacities and fostering sustainable development within the Black Sea basin.
Black Sea by 2030 (http://connect2blacksea.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Black_Sea_SRIA_Final.pdf)
Etc…

Programme Common Output Indicator:

RCO 116 - Jointly developed solutions, Measurement unit:
RCO 087 - Organisations cooperating across borders, Measurement unit:
RCO 081 - Participations in joint actions across borders, Measurement unit:

Programme Common Result Indicator:

RCR 084 - Organisations cooperating across borders after project completion, Measurement unit:
RCR 104 - Solutions taken up or up-scaled by organisations, Measurement unit:

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSDR

Project part of European Union Macro-Regional or Sea Basin Strategy: EUSAIR

EUSAIR Priority (Policy) area / Horizontal action:

EUSAIR Degree of compliance:

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

Financing programme

2021 - 2027 Interreg VI-B NEXT Black Sea Basin

Latest month of project-partner-call data publication

2026-09

No. of projects in keep.eu / Total no. of projects (% of projects in keep.eu)

83 / 83 (100%)

No. of project partnerships in keep.eu / Total no. of project partnerships (% of project partnerships in keep.eu)

373 / 374 (99.73%)

Notes on the data

There are discrepancies in this programme's financial data in keep.eu. Namely, in one or more cases, the sum of the project partners' budgets exceeds the total budget of the respective project. Interact is working with the Programme to correct those figures.

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Capacity Building and Training for Public Sector Using Artificial Intelligence

Description

Thematic information

Partners (4)

Partners map

Summary

Investments, deliverables, policy contributions

Information regarding the data in keep.eu on the programme financing this project

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