Swiss e-government startup Procivis has announced the release of the beta version of its integrated electronic identity and services platform.

The announcement follows the startup’s public launch earlier this year. Founded in autumn 2016 by blockchain entrepreneur Daniel Gasteiger, the startup is developing an “e-government as a service” platform to enable the digitization of societies and the provision of online public services across the globe.

Called “eID+”, the beta version is currently available and allows the issuance, management, and integration of electronic identity services. At the heart of the solution is a mobile app that allows citizens to create and manage their electronic identity, and access related services. These include secure and convenient login to websites using two-factor authentication, and the electronic signing and safe storage of documents.

Verification providers, including state authorities, can access the platform on a web backend to attest the correctness of personal data stored as part of a citizen’s electronic identity, Procivis explained. An application programming interface (API) allows third parties to validate the verification status of such information, adding security and speed to their processes. A second backend allows website operators to set up seamless onboarding and login for their applications using eID+ as well as the upload of documents for electronic signing by eID+ users.

Procivis said that the fully functional software is ready for piloting and designed to integrate blockchain-based smart contract capabilities as soon as the underlying technology has matured.

The startup also announced it will provide free access to its solution for partnering NGOs and intergovernmental organisations to support their work in the developing world. Procivis is already in talks with several Swiss cantons, different agencies within the United Nations and the World Bank to discuss the implementation of Procivis in a pilot setup.

“The high level of interest we’ve been registering since the launch of Procivis early this year reflects the sense of urgency among both governments and international organisations to establish a solid foundation for the digitisation of our society. We expect to roll out the first pilot implementations based on our current solution within the next six months”, Gasteiger said.