Capgemini report warns of major data maturity gap as public sector ramps up AI ambitions
A new report from the Capgemini Research Institute reveals that nine in ten public sector organizations worldwide plan to explore, pilot, or implement agentic AI over the next 2–3 years, aiming to transform public services and boost operational efficiency. Yet, despite these bold ambitions, only 21% of respondents say they have the data required to train and fine-tune AI models.
The study, Data foundations for government – From AI ambition to execution, highlights a stark disconnect between AI enthusiasm and data readiness. While 64% of public sector bodies are already exploring or deploying generative AI, most continue to face challenges related to data security (79%), trust in AI outputs (74%), and compliance, especially with evolving regulatory frameworks like the EU AI Act.
“Governments can be more agile and effective as AI augments the work of public servants — but only if the data foundations are strong.”
— Marc Reinhardt, Public Sector Global Industry Leader, Capgemini
“With rising citizen demands and stretched resources, public sector organizations recognize the ways in which AI can help them do more with less,” said Marc Reinhardt, Capgemini’s global public sector lead. “However, the ability to deploy Gen AI and agentic AI depends on having rock-solid data foundations.”
The report also notes a sharp rise in dedicated AI leadership roles: 64% of organizations now have Chief Data Officers, and 27% have appointed Chief AI Officers, with many more planning to follow suit. However, data sharing initiatives remain immature, with 65% still in planning or pilot stages, constrained by sovereignty and governance concerns.
As governments look to digitize responsibly, Capgemini’s findings urge public institutions to prioritize data activation, skill development, and cross-agency sharing frameworks to turn AI visions into scalable, trustworthy realities.