Pioneering the Digital Future: Estonia’s Model and U.S. Innovation

On May 5th, 2025 a distinguished panel came together for a timely and insightful event titled “Pioneering the Digital Future: Estonia’s Model and U.S. Innovation in Public Sector Digitalization for Business Impact.” The event was organized by the Baltic American Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Enterprise Estonia, the Embassy of Estonia in Washington, D.C., and Honorary Consul of Estonia in New York, Airi Hammalov, and was hosted at Baker McKenzie's spectacular Manhattan office overlooking Bryant Park.

The discussion brought together experts from both sides of the Atlantic: Dr. Anna-Maria Osula, Cyber and Economic Counselor at the Estonian Embassy; Colin Ahern, Chief Cyber Officer for the State of New York; and Elizabeth Kiehner, Chief Growth Officer at Nortal, the Estonian technology company, which recently secured a significant contract with NATO. The panel was moderated by Airi Hammalov, Honorary Consul of Estonia in New York, who is also a Partner at Baker McKenzie. The speakers shared unique perspectives on how digital tools and AI are transforming public services, improving transparency, and driving efficiency in government.

Panelists explored Estonia’s journey from post-Soviet independence to becoming a global digital leader, and how the U.S.—particularly New York State—is adapting to its own set of digital challenges. Topics ranged from secure digital identities and AI implementation to cross-sector collaboration and strategies for scaling digital solutions. The conversation also highlighted key differences between doing business in the EU and the U.S., especially in sectors like education and healthcare, and offered practical advice for companies seeking to navigate these landscapes. At the close of the event, the speakers graciously shared personal stories, reflecting on how their young children use AI to express creativity through painting, while they themselves use it to produce meaningful broadcasts.

The event concluded with a lively Q&A and discussion on lessons learned, the future of AI in government, and how the US and the EU, or countries on different sides of the Atlantic, can continue to lead in digital innovation while maintaining trust and transparency.