NWO-DECIDE partnership

Glazen Uil joins research project DECIDE for transparent AI

What if AI weren’t just smart, but also fair and transparent? What if you weren’t just a user of AI, but also a co-designer of the systems shaping our lives? Responsible AI is something we all want, yet changing the system remains a challenge.

With the NWO DECIDE project - Democratizing AI: Empowering Citizens through Transparent Decision-Making - we’re joining forces with companies, universities, governments, and citizens to build a new generation of AI: transparent, fair, and inclusive. Together, we’re shaping a future where AI serves everyone, not just Big Tech. Glazen Uil is proud to be an official partner in this impressive consortium because our expertise and vision align perfectly with DECIDE’s goals. We seized this unique opportunity with both hands! We contribute our knowledge and expertise to the project pro bono while learning from our partners. A win-win for everyone!

What is NWO DECIDE?

The DECIDE project is funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) as part of its National Science Agenda to drive innovation and societal impact. With a budget of €6.8 million, this ambitious project launched in late 2025 after receiving NWO’s positive evaluation.

DECIDE brings together researchers from diverse fields, including computer science, philosophy, ethics, psychology, and law, alongside around 30 partners, including NGOs, research institutions and innovative companies. The consortium is led by Professor Mieke Boon from the University of Twente, who invited Glazen Uil to join based on our expertise and shared vision.

The goal of DECIDE is clear:

To develop transparent, democratic AI systems designed with citizens rather than for them.

By making AI more transparent and involving citizens in its development, DECIDE aims to create a more democratic, equitable, and trustworthy digital society where AI serves everyone, not just a few. AI literacy is a key focus of the project.

Why We Support DECIDE

We see our involvement in this major Dutch project as a unique opportunity. AI must become more transparent, fair, and democratic. That is why I’ve advocated for citizen assemblies on AI before. Given this shared mission, Glazen Uil is proud to be an official partner and contributes pro bono to DECIDE’s goals.

What Glazen Uil Brings to DECIDE:

• Explainable AI: We provide technical expertise to make AI less of a black box and more understandable.
• Responsible AI: We offer knowledge on ethical AI deployment, including insights from our work in AI literacy.
• Digital Autonomy: We share practical guidance and technical support to help citizens and businesses gain more control over their data and decisions, and reduce reliance on Big Tech.
• Real-World Needs: We know what our cliens and other companies want. As practitioners, we bridge the gap between technology, science, and real-world applications, ensuring solutions are both innovative and practical.

What We Gain from DECIDE:

• Stronger Together: We expand our network with scientists, NGOs, and other companies in the consortium, strengthening our impact as an innovative and responsible AI partner.
• Collaborative Learning: Thanks to the diverse disciplines and perspectives within DECIDE, we develop a more comprehensive view on responsible AI.
• Inspiration for Our Clients: We bring everything we learn in DECIDE back to our clients, ensuring they stay ahead with the latest scientific insights.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Right Up Our Alley

At Glazen Uil, we don’t believe in silos. And DECIDE is a project where siloed thinking simply doesn’t fit. Scientists, citizens, societal partners, and businesses collaborate toward a shared goal: true teamwork beyond comfort zones and ivory towers. A mission without hidden agendas or dollar signs in the eyes. By pooling our expertise, we create the best solutions.

We’re also thrilled by the network within DECIDE. Some partners, like the University of Twente and TU Eindhoven, are familiar faces, and it’s great to reconnect. But we’re also meeting many new people, each bringing unique perspectives. This inspiring and motivating group of like-minded individuals fuels our drive to make a difference!

Conclusion: Motivated for a Better Future

Our partnership with NWO DECIDE reaffirms our vision and motivates us to continue championing democratic and transparent AI. The project proves that technology and humanity can go hand in hand. By working with scientists, governments, and citizens, we’re building a future where AI isn’t just smart but also transparent and inclusive.

Curious about how we’re already putting responsible AI and digital autonomy into practice? Or want to know how we can help you? Get in touch.

Want to learn more about DECIDE? Visit the official DECIDE website or read the NWO announcement.