Canada Launches AI Strategy Task Force with Public Input Sprint

Canada Launches Expert-Led AI Strategy Task Force with 30-Day Public Input Sprint

Canada is taking decisive action to strengthen its position in the global AI race. On September 26, 2025, Minister Evan Solomon announced the formation of an AI Strategy Task Force alongside a month-long national engagement process to shape the country's next comprehensive AI strategy.

The initiative brings together 25 leading experts from industry, academia, and civil society across eight critical areas: research and talent development, industry adoption, commercialization, investment attraction, AI safety and public trust, education and skills, infrastructure building, and security. Notable participants include Joelle Pineau from Cohere, Patrick Pichette from Inovia Capital, and professors from major Canadian universities.

Key Focus Areas for Canada's AI Future

The task force will tackle pressing challenges that could determine Canada's competitive edge:

• Talent and Research Excellence: Leveraging Canada's academic strengths while addressing the global AI talent shortage
• Commercial Growth: Scaling Canadian AI champions and attracting international investment to compete with Silicon Valley and other tech hubs
• Infrastructure Development: Building on the $2 billion Canadian Sovereign AI Compute Strategy launched in 2024 to ensure researchers and businesses have adequate computing power

Public Input Opportunity

From October 1-31, 2025, Canadians can contribute their perspectives through the Consulting Canadians portal. The task force will then deliver actionable recommendations in November, informing a renewed national AI strategy designed to help Canada achieve its goal of building "the strongest economy in the G7."

This effort builds on Canada's pioneering role as the first country to launch a funded national AI strategy. Since 2017, Canada has invested approximately $742 million in its AI ecosystem through the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy and related initiatives.

The timing is strategic, as Canada seeks to capitalize on its AI research legacy while adapting to rapid technological advances and shifting geopolitical dynamics in the global tech landscape.

🔗 Read the full announcement on Government of Canada