The Canadian tech industry leaders are eagerly awaiting the completion of the federal government’s national AI strategy, hoping for a comprehensive plan to support and foster sector growth. Over the past year, the government has been working on the AI policy, engaging with experts and receiving feedback from various stakeholders, culminating in the establishment of two AI advisory groups to collaborate with cultural and union representatives.
Concerns about AI have been on the rise among the public due to job losses, security issues with new AI models, and its implications in events like the Tumbler Ridge mass shooting earlier this year. In the U.S., President Donald Trump initially overturned existing AI regulations to prioritize innovation but has since expressed a more cautious approach towards new AI models.
The federal government is taking a deliberate approach to crafting the national AI strategy to ensure its effectiveness. The initial glimpse into the strategy revealed six key pillars, including protecting Canadians, promoting shared prosperity through AI adoption, and fostering global partnerships. Minister Evan Solomon emphasized the government’s focus on expanding AI infrastructure, such as supporting the establishment of new data centers in British Columbia by Telus.
Canadian tech executives are optimistic about the potential of the new strategy to not only boost the AI industry but also position Canada as a leader in AI technology and talent. Louis Têtu, the executive chairman of Coveo, highlighted the need for government support in advancing the sector, emphasizing the importance of retaining AI innovation and skilled talent in Canada.
The federal strategy aims to safeguard Canadians from AI-related risks through robust privacy and online safety laws. Mirko Bibic, the CEO of BCE Bell Canada, stressed the necessity of a detailed roadmap for sector growth with clear performance targets. The strategy also focuses on enhancing Canada’s infrastructure to achieve data sovereignty and reduce dependence on foreign digital service providers.
Michael Arbus, CEO of Moomoo Canada, emphasized the importance of pursuing data sovereignty to reduce reliance on U.S. tech firms and bolster Canadian control over computing resources. He called for a comprehensive plan to enhance electricity production and transmission in Canada to support the growing demands of data centers. The integration of a national electricity strategy with the AI strategy could ensure a stable power supply for data centers and protect electricity rates for consumers.
Overall, the federal government’s forthcoming national AI strategy is expected to provide a strategic framework to propel Canada’s AI sector forward and establish the country as a prominent player in AI technology and innovation.