ICTU has integrated the Dutch generative AI language model GPT-NL into its AI infrastructure to conduct trials with Gem, a virtual assistant designed for local councils. ICTU, 27 municipalities, and TNO are the initial testers of the system, endeavouring to further establish the Netherlands as a leader in AI innovation.
Several municipalities, including Utrecht, Rotterdam, and Eindhoven, are already using Gem to provide information on local services, such as civil affairs.
Enhancing Gem’s capabilities
The Gem community has 6 years of practical experience and currently serves around 2.8 million residents. However, Gem has not yet adopted generative AI, which limits its functionality and makes maintenance relatively expensive. By integrating generative AI, the partners aim to improve and expand services while lowering maintenance expenses. ICTU will share details about the trials in the fall.
The initiative is funded by the Ministry of the Interior and Kingdom Relations (BZK), as part of the Netherlands’ Digitisation Strategy (NDS), Priority 3: Artificial Intelligence (AI). Previously, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate (EZK) supported GPT-NL’s training.
About GPT-NL
GPT-NL is an AI language model trained solely on legally sourced content, with no infringement of intellectual property. It emphasises transparency, responsible data handling, and digital sovereignty, providing a responsible alternative to existing models like ChatGPT. GPT-NL has previously received the Dutch Privacy Award.
Developed in 2025 through a collaboration between TNO, NFI, and SURF, GPT-NL was trained on the national supercomputer Snellius. A full list of partners is available on the GPT-NL website (Dutch).
Interested in joining the Gem trial?
Depending on the use case and capacity, it is still possible to join. For more information, please email info@gpt-nl.nl.
