Canadian tech leaders are eagerly awaiting the completion of the federal government’s national AI strategy, hoping for a comprehensive plan outlining Ottawa’s support for the sector’s growth. Over the past year, the government has been crafting the policy after reviewing more than 11,000 submissions and consulting with a panel of 28 experts. Recently, two AI advisory groups were established to collaborate with cultural and union representatives.
The move comes amidst increasing public concerns about AI, triggered by layoffs at prominent firms, security apprehensions regarding advanced AI models, and the technology’s implications in incidents like the Tumbler Ridge shooting in British Columbia earlier this year. Notably, at recent U.S. university graduations, students expressed discontent by booing speakers who emphasized AI benefits.
In the U.S., President Donald Trump previously discarded existing AI regulations to prioritize innovation, but there have been shifts in his stance towards a more cautious approach. In Canada, the federal government is methodically developing the new AI strategy, recently unveiling its six pillars focused on various aspects of AI implementation and growth.
Meanwhile, Federal AI Minister Evan Solomon highlighted the government’s commitment to enhancing AI infrastructure, including the recent support for three new Telus data centers in British Columbia.
Enabling Growth
Several industry executives are optimistic that the new strategy will not only propel the AI sector but also expedite Canada’s emergence as a leader in AI technology, talent, and enterprises. Louis Têtu, the executive chairman of Coveo, emphasized the need for concerted efforts to bolster the sector, ranging from expanding data centers and networks to fostering Canadian innovation.
Têtu stressed the government’s pivotal role in facilitating collaboration and achieving this critical objective, emphasizing the need to retain AI technology and skilled professionals nurtured by Canadian educational institutions within the country.
Comprehensive Framework
The federal strategy’s initial focus is on safeguarding Canadians from AI-related risks through modern privacy and online safety laws. Mirko Bibic, CEO of BCE Bell Canada, highlighted the significance of establishing regulations as industry guidelines. He emphasized the need for a detailed plan with specific goals and milestones to drive sectoral growth effectively.
Another key pillar of the strategy involves enhancing Canada’s infrastructure to develop a self-reliant AI ecosystem independent of foreign entities. Michael Arbus, CEO of Moomoo Canada, underscored the importance of achieving data sovereignty to reduce dependence on U.S. tech corporations. He called for a clear strategy addressing the electricity needs for data centers, advocating for diversified energy sources like nuclear, hydroelectric, and natural gas-fired power plants.
Ottawa’s commitment to a national electricity strategy, coupled with substantial investment tax credits, is poised to bolster power supply for data centers and ensure stable electricity rates for consumers. Arbus envisioned a future where Canada could potentially become a net exporter of computing resources, akin to its stature in natural resources.