The project amai! aims to change how artificial intelligence (AI) solutions are created and integrated into society, by giving citizens a voice in the development of AI in societal domains such as mobility, climate, health, and work. The project engages citizens from initial ideas to implementation. The annual amai! cycle consists of four phases. It starts by identifying relevant societal challenges and collecting citizen-generated ideas, resulting in over 1000 contributions so far. In the second phase, citizens and experts co-define the scope of these issues and of potential AI-solutions to tackle them. Phase three encompasses an open call for consortia to develop these new AI solutions, selected through a rigorous process involving both expert and citizen panels. In the fourth phase, the selected consortia then develop the new AI solutions, integrating citizen science methods throughout the process. To date, 17 innovative AI solutions have been funded. This poster will outline the phase-based approach of amai! and share key lessons learned on engaging and empowering citizens to explore AI. The project highlights how citizen participation can democratize AI innovation and governance while building capacities in an enjoyable and accessible way. The amai! project is a crucial component of the Flemish AI Plan, emphasizing the importance of citizen involvement in complex issues. At its core, amai! is a mission-oriented participatory approach that aims to bridge the gap between AI innovation and the public. Its methodology is applicable across various domains and regions.