In a rapidly changing and increasingly competitive global economy, artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming industries and reshaping how businesses operate, creating new opportunities for innovation, productivity and economic growth. Building the strongest economy in the G7 depends on our ability to innovate and lead in emerging technologies and strengthening our leadership in the responsible use of artificial intelligence.
On May 19, the Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan) announced $6.8 million in federal funding through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), for five projects in Alberta.
The funding announced on May 19 will support more than 70 jobs in Alberta and advance Canada's domestic capacity for technology and innovation in artificial intelligence. These investments will help businesses and organizations bring technology to new markets, improve productivity and competitiveness, and offer research and testing opportunities to support growth and innovation.
These strategic investments through RAII advance the Government of Canada's commitment to building a stronger, more resilient Canadian economy, while accelerating the development of nation-building data and AI infrastructure in Canada.
Full details about these projects can be found in the linked backgrounder.
Quotes
"Edmonton and Alberta are home to world-class talent, ambitious companies, and a growing tech sector that is helping position Alberta as a leader in artificial intelligence and innovation. As AI reshapes how businesses innovate, compete, and grow, our government is proud to invest in Alberta companies that are developing and adopting cutting-edge technologies. Today's investment will help turn Canadian ideas into real economic growth, strengthen Alberta's competitiveness, and create good careers here at home."
-The Honourable Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)
"Across Alberta, innovators are transforming artificial intelligence into practical, market-ready solutions that strengthen economic growth and enhance Canada's global competitiveness. Through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, our new government is supporting Canadian organizations as they advance leading-edge research, commercialize new technologies and scale their operations. By helping move innovation from discovery to commercialization, we are creating high-quality jobs, supporting business growth and strengthening Canada's capacity to lead in the digital economy."
-The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Quick facts
- In Budget 2024 The Government of Canada announced $2.4 billion to secure Canada's artificial intelligence advantage, including investments to accelerate job growth in Canada's artificial intelligence sector, boost productivity by helping researchers and businesses develop and adopt artificial intelligence and ensure artificial intelligence adoption is done responsibly.
- PrairiesCan received $33.8 million over five years to deliver the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), beginning in 2024-25.
- PrairiesCan continues to accept RAII applications with applicants encouraged to submit expressions of interest as soon as possible for consideration under this initiative.
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