Government of Canada launches second phase of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy

Strategy brings together partners across the country to accelerate the research and commercialization of artificial intelligence June 22, 2022 – Toronto, Ontario Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the greatest technological advances of our age and has a significant impact on the daily lives of Canadians. AI is a driver of economic growth and good jobs, which is why the Government of Canada is committed to investing in efforts to drive its adoption across our economy and society. Today, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, announced the launch of the second phase of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy. Backed by an investment of more than $443 million committed in Budget 2021, the second phase of the strategy will seek to bridge world‑class talent and cutting-edge research capacity with commercialization and adoption to ensure that Canadian ideas and knowledge are mobilized here at home. This investment reflects the government’s commitment to accelerate the responsible adoption and commercialization of AI across the Canadian economy by advancing programs to enhance Canada’s research base and talent pool. This will enable established industries to be more productive and competitive, while helping all Canadians to benefit from growth in the digital economy. The Government of Canada is leveraging the expertise of partners to implement these measures, including CIFAR, the national AI institutes, the Standards Council of Canada, and Canada’s Global Innovation Clusters. Together, they will work to ensure that Canadian values are embedded across widely used global technology platforms and to promote the responsible development and use of AI, grounded in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation and economic growth.

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“Artificial intelligence is a key part of our government’s plan to make our economy stronger than ever. The second phase of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy will help harness the full potential of AI to benefit Canadians and accelerate trustworthy technology development, while fostering diversity and cooperation across the AI domain. This collaborative effort will bring together the knowledge and expertise necessary to solidify Canada as a global leader in artificial intelligence and machine learning.”
– The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“CIFAR has been proud to lead the first phase of the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, along with our partners at Amii, Mila and the Vector Institute, forging Canada’s reputation as a global leader in advancing research excellence and responsible AI development. Today we're pleased to continue to build on this strong foundation to ensure Canadian AI delivers positive social benefits and better economic opportunities for Canadians and the world.”
– Elissa Strome, Executive Director, Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, CIFAR

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