The City of Detroit is embarking on an innovative journey by incorporating an artificial intelligence (AI) statement into all Request for Proposals (RFPs) from the Office of Contracting and Procurement. This strategic move encourages bidders and vendors to utilize AI and other technological solutions, aiming to enhance efficiency, improve services, and optimize operational performance.
Mayor Mike Duggan emphasized Detroit’s commitment to innovation, stating, “By inviting companies to include artificial intelligence and other innovative technology in their proposals, it will give them the freedom to design solutions that can adapt more quickly to the needs of our residents.”
With nearly 300 RFPs issued annually, the city engages with over 400 bidders and collaborates with more than 1,100 vendors. The newly introduced statement reads: “Contractors are encouraged to employ innovative approaches, including ethically and responsibly leveraging artificial intelligence and advanced technologies, to enhance goods delivery, services, and operational performance.”
Potential applications of AI include multi-lingual translation services, aimed at increasing access to vital city information and services like 911 emergency response, and predictive modeling for efficient infrastructure maintenance and replacement. By prompting proposals that incorporate these advanced technologies, the City of Detroit seeks to elevate service delivery and fully explore the civic applications of AI.
Chief Procurement Officer Sandra Yu Stahl expressed excitement about the initiative, stating, “We are excited to see how vendors and partners can leverage AI and other innovative technologies to contribute to the city’s delivery of services while maintaining our standard for operational excellence.”
This initiative is part of a larger movement by the City of Detroit to modernize its regulatory frameworks and foster collaborations with cutting-edge firms and local entrepreneurs. Justin Onwenu, the Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity, echoed this sentiment, expressing optimism about the potential this initiative could unlock for Detroit’s technology sector.
Chief Information Officer Art Thompson added, “The City of Detroit is excited to promote the advances in technology and looks to embrace these advances as we increase our services to our residents.”
It’s important to note that while the use of AI will not influence RFP scoring, the integration of this invitation statement highlights the city’s enthusiasm and clarity for vendors interested in innovative technological solutions.
For updates on current RFP opportunities, interested parties can visit detroitmi.gov/supplier.
This forward-thinking initiative not only positions Detroit as a leader in urban technology adoption but also demonstrates a commitment to enhancing community services, ultimately fostering a collaborative environment for technological growth and innovation.