Canada was the first country to have a national AI strategy. The good news is that it has been a great success. The benefits have been realized sooner and to a greater extent than was anticipated. But, Canada’s first-mover advantage in AI is at risk. What we do next will determine how much our country gains the economic rewards that AI promises – or if other countries enjoy the bulk of the benefits.

About 18 months ago, Canada led the world by announcing the first national AI strategy. The five-year Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy unified Canada’s three major AI institutes — Vector Institute in Toronto, Amii in Edmonton and Mila in Montreal — with a national vision. Working together, we would recruit and develop a critical mass of top AI researchers and practitioners that would become a magnet for investment and other top talent from around the world.

Canadian AI is Working Pitch Book

Speech by Ed Clark, Chair, Vector Institute at the Canadian Club in Toronto, December 13th 2018 (Check Against Delivery)

Video: Speech by Ed Clark, Chair, Vector Institute at the Canadian Club in Toronto, December 13th, 2018

The Globe and Mail: The global race for artificial-intelligence supremacy is on – and Canada’s next moves are crucial Written by Ed Clark