Empowering Contracting Authorities with AI for Transparent and Effective Procurement Methods

This one-day training course will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can transform tendering and procurement processes within Irish government departments and contracting authorities. Throughout this course you will gain an understanding of how AI tools can support every stage of the procurement cycle – from market analysis and drafting tender documents to supplier evaluation, contract management and performance monitoring. The course will also highlight the legal, ethical and regulatory considerations specific to Ireland and the EU, ensuring that AI is applied responsibly, transparently and in line with Public Procurement rules. By the end of this course attendees will be equipped with practical insights, case studies and an action plan to implement AI into the procurement processes for greater efficiency, compliance and value for money for public services.

All attendees will receive a full course pack to refer to and will have the benefit of learning from a trainer with a wealth of experience in this area.

Pre-Requisites

• Attendees should have access to some form of AI to complete tasks, for example: Copilot, ChatGPT, Gemini, or any LLM (Large Language Model). The tutor will primarily be working with Copilot for demonstrations
• If attendees can only obtain a FREE version, they will be able to follow along with some, but all of the tasks in the course
• Attendees should have some experience working with available AI tools, as this course is at an advanced level

Course Content

Overview – Irelands National AI Strategy

Foundations of AI in Public Procurement

• AI Applications relevant to procurement
• Supplier discovery (Irish & EU Supplier databases)
• Tender search automation (etenders platform)
• Document Analysis & compliance checks
• Global and EU examples – lessons for Ireland

Interactive Poll – Which Procurement Stage takes the most time for you?

The Tendering Lifecycle and AI

• Pre-tender: Market analysis, demand aggregation, SME engagement (Irish SME focus)
• Tender drafting: AI support in drafting RFQs/RFTs aligned with the office of government Procurement (OGP) templates.
• Evaluation: Automated compliance screening, scoring matrix support, bias checks
• Contract Management: Monitoring supplier KPIs, flagging risks (delays, cost overruns)
• Case Study – Review a past public tender and identify where AI could add efficiency or fairness

Legal, Ethical & Policy Considerations

• Irish Procurement Rules
• EU AI Act – High-risk category for AI in procurement & transparency requirements
• Data Protection: GDPR compliance in tender data
• Risks: bias, black-box AI, Auditability
• Irish Government stance: AI Ethics, transparency, accountability

Demonstrations & Tools

Walkthrough of:

• ETenders (Irish national Procurement platform) and how AI could be integrated
• Contract analytics and supplier risk monitoring tools
• Chatbots for supplier Q&A
• Hands-on –AI-assisted drafting of an award criterion or contract clause

Implementation in the Irish Context

• Steps for introducing AI responsibly: Pilot projects, staff training, collaboration with OGP Guidelines
• Change management & digital readiness in Irish government departments.
• Procurement of AI solutions: Compliance with Irish and EU procurement frameworks
• Measuring benefits(e.g., savings, reduced disputes, improved supplier diversity)

Who Should Attend

This course is designed for professionals involved in public procurement, tendering and contract management within the Irish public sector including; procurement officers and managers, government officials, policy makers and advisors, contracting authority staff, those responsible for drafting, evaluating and managing tenders. Finance, audit and compliance officers. ICT and Digital Transformation teams to name just a few.

Certification

On completion of this one-day training course, you will receive your Certificate of Attendance. Please note certificates are issued at the close of the training course to participants on completion of the course.

This course may qualify for CPD points. Please check directly with your association or awarding body to see how many points they will award.

Cost

An ‘Early Bird’ discounted rate of €499 is currently available. This training course normal rate is €599. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. PLEASE NOTE THE EARLY BIRD RATE CLOSES 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO COURSE DATE. The course cost includes all course documentation and Certificate of Attendance.