Artificial intelligence is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The right tool depends on the problem you are trying to solve and the stage of the process you are in—from defining priorities with the public to co-creating solutions or evaluating ideas. Drawing on People Powered’s international experience with participatory democracy projects, this workshop will introduce a practical framework for matching AI tools to different civic engagement goals.

People Powered Co-Executive Director, Greta Rios and Resource Manager Nikhil Kumar will explore concrete examples of how AI can support deliberation, problem identification, idea generation, and decision-making. Attendees will also gain guidance on how to assess the strengths and limitations of emerging platforms, what questions to ask when choosing a tool, and how to ensure that AI supports rather than substitutes human judgment. By the end of the session, you will be better equipped to make informed choices about when and how to use AI tools in your work with communities.

• Understand the different stages of civic engagement and the types of AI tools best suited to each.

• Learn from People Powered’s global experience how to evaluate AI platforms and decide which are appropriate for your context.

• Gain practical strategies for integrating AI tools while keeping human judgment and community needs at the center.