Shift2 the Future: the event about digital government, innovation, and AI

What a day! On June 24, 2025, more than 200 professionals from the public sector gathered at DeFabrique in Utrecht for the very first Shift2 the Future event. A milestone for Shift2 and an exciting day on which we explored the digital future of government together with customers, partners, and colleagues, full of energy.

Managing Director Mike de Ruiter of Shift2 during the Shift2 the Future event

At DeFabrique in Utrecht, we immersed ourselves in the world of digital transformation, innovation, and fun. And that's not all: we also celebrated Shift2's first anniversary! It was a great moment to reflect on what we have already achieved together with municipalities, water boards, and provinces over the past year in the areas of digital services, elections, and civil affairs. 

Inspiration, innovation, and AI trends for digital government

The day began with a powerful keynote speech by Remy Gieling, tech expert and trend watcher. He took us on a journey through the rapid developments in artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on digital government. How can local authorities use this technology responsibly to improve services and keep them human?

Keynote speaker Remy Gieling
Keynote Remy Gieling on AI in digital government
Sub-session room with participants and presenter Marc van Tintelen from Shift2
Colleague Marc van Tintelen during the sub-session 'The website of the future'

Visitors could then participate in their own program with inspiring sub-sessions focused on current topics within local government:

  • Responsible AI use within local government – Mark Zijlstra (ICT Law)
  • The next step in accessible digital services – Twan Emonts-Schumer (Cardan)
  • The website of the future – Marc van Tintelen (Shift2)
  • Elections of the future – Maarten van de Veer (Shift2)
  • The future of civil affairs – Laura Wieringa and Jeroen Brakel (Shift2)
  • Smart data for modern municipal services –Sharina van Putten and Twan Meijerink (Shift2)

Meet and discover at the partner square

At the bustling partner square, Shift2 partners presented their solutions that help local governments with digitization, communication, and inclusive services, among other things. These were the 14 partners who were present: Cardan Technobility,SEP, ReadSpeaker,Keesy,KCM Group,Conduction,Zynyo,Weglot,Scribit.Pro,Blue Billywig,Progresity,JCC Software,Spotler,Momice, andBiLogic. We are incredibly proud that these partners were present at the Shift2 the Future event and that we were able to showcase our valuable collaboration to visitors.

Visitors play a game during the Shift2 the Future event
Comedian Harry Glotzbach on stage
Comedian Harry Glotzbach on stage for the wrap-up of the day

Fun hour & wrap-up with a smile

After all that inspiration, it was time for action. During Fun Hour, visitors could let off steam on the go-kart track and at the SIM racing. Comedian Harry Glotzbach summed up the day in a hilarious way, with sharp insights into technology, civil servants, and visions of the future. We then ended the day in festive style with drinks and the beats of DJ Hielke Boersma.

Building the digital government of the future together

We look back with pride and gratitude on a day full of encounters, innovation, and progress. The success of Shift2 the Future shows what is possible when we continue to work together toward a modern, inclusive, and accessible government. 

💜 Thank you to everyone who attended.

Wall with Shift2 the Future logo

The future in pictures

Want to know more?

Curious about how we can help your municipality with digital transformation, civil affairs, or accessible services? Contact us or read more about our solutions. Together we improve 💜