The Office of the AI and Data Commissioner will also receive $5.1 million to implement the AI and Data Bill. “If you’re looking at giving the AI and Data Commissioner’s office the resources to start implementing it when you don’t have this legislation yet… that tells me that the government is seriously considering giving “bite to this upcoming legislation,” Vila said.
Over five years, an additional $200 million will support AI startups and accelerate technology adoption in agriculture, cleantech, healthcare and manufacturing, managed by regional development agencies from Canada. This indicates a “desire to drive AI adoption in critical sectors,” says Vila.
The National Research Council’s AI Assist program will provide $100 million to help small and medium-sized businesses implement new AI solutions to increase national productivity. $50 million will fund the Sectoral Workforce Solutions program, which provides job training for workers in industries likely to be impacted by AI.
Transport Canada is also expected to benefit from $6.7 million for the Pre-Load Air Cargo Targeting Program, which screens all air cargo destined for Canada.
Vila says it’s possible the legislation could be passed as early as the end of this year. “Businesses may want to prepare for what’s to come based on what we already know.”
