Cybersecurity is essential to Canada's digital economy, helping businesses, governments and communities protect critical systems while supporting innovation and growth. Investments in cybersecurity research and collaboration help strengthen Canada's capacity to address emerging threats while developing the skilled workforce needed for the future.
From left to right: Karen Nemani, Professional Services Security at Amazon Web Services Canada; Dr. Windhya Rankothge, Research Associate at the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity; Melanie Anderson, Director General of User Information Technology at the Department of National Defence and Major General Dave Yarker (online / not visible in photo), Commander at the Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command
On August 28, David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Fredericton Oromocto, announced federal support for the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity (CIC) at the University of New Brunswick to deliver the Privacy, Security and Trust (PST) Cybersecurity Summit 2026, held in Fredericton on August 20 ($50,000 non-repayable).
This contribution supported the summit in bringing together industry, government, academia and students to discuss advances in cybersecurity research, artificial intelligence and security applications. The event provided opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration while showcasing New Brunswick's strengths in cybersecurity research and innovation.
The announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthening Canada's innovation economy, supporting research excellence and developing the skilled workforce needed to compete in an increasingly digital world.
The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
Quotes
"Investments in cybersecurity help strengthen Canada's economy by supporting innovation, collaboration and the development of skilled talent. By supporting the PST Cybersecurity Summit 2026, we are helping bring together experts from across sectors to share knowledge, advance research and strengthen Canada's growing cybersecurity ecosystem."
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
"Fredericton has earned a strong reputation as a centre of excellence for cybersecurity research and innovation. The PST Cybersecurity Summit 2026 brought together experts, researchers, businesses and students to share knowledge and build relationships that support the continued growth of this important sector in our community and across Atlantic Canada."
- David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Fredericton Oromocto
"CIC's annual Cybersecurity Summit brought together leading experts to explore how cybersecurity and AI are reshaping our digital future. Strengthening Canada's capabilities in these areas is essential to our national security, economic prosperity, and global competitiveness."
- Ali Ghorbani, Director, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity
Quick facts
- The Privacy, Security and Trust (PST) Cybersecurity Summit 2026 was held in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on August 20, 2026.
- Hosted by the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity and the PST Network, the PST Cybersecurity Summit 2026 brought together leaders from industry, government, academia and international research organizations to discuss cybersecurity challenges, emerging threats, cyber resilience and digital trust. The summit preceded PST 2026 in Ottawa, which featured academic and technical presentations focused on cybersecurity.
- The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's (ACOA) support helped deliver the summit and create opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration among cybersecurity stakeholders.
- The Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity at the University of New Brunswick is one of Canada's leading cybersecurity research centres.
- Funding announced today (August 28) was provided through ACOA's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.
Associated links
