Redefining Canada’s AI Strategy Through the Lens of CIFAR’s Elissa Strome

Over the past decade, the federal government of Canada has invested more than half a billion dollars into a national artificial intelligence strategy, aimed at positioning the country as a leader in this transformative technology. Many may not be familiar with the specifics of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, but its impact is evident through the establishment of national AI institutes such as Amii, Mila, and the Vector Institute, alongside initiatives focused on AI commercialization through the Global Innovation SuperClusters.

Elissa Strome, the executive director at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIFAR) and a key figure behind the strategy, recently discussed these developments at the ALL IN conference in Montréal, co-hosted by Mila and Scale AI. Strome highlighted CIFAR's long-standing commitment to AI research, dating back to its first program in 1983. As discussions about the future of AI unfolded at the conference, both Mila CEO Valérie Pisano and Vector Institute CEO Tony Gaffney engaged in speculation about what phase three of the strategy might entail. Strome expressed confidence that CIFAR has met its objectives for phase two, while also sharing her vision for the next phase, which includes making substantial investments in core research and talent development, as well as identifying and addressing gaps in Canada’s AI ecosystem to ensure its competitiveness on a global scale.

However, challenges remain in the commercialization and procurement of AI technologies in Canada. Although the federal government has committed significant funding, there is a stark contrast when compared to the massive investments made by tech giants like Microsoft, Meta, Amazon, and Alphabet, which collectively allocated $104 billion in capital expenditures for AI infrastructure in the first half of 2024 alone. This disparity raises concerns about Canada's ability to keep pace with global advancements in AI technology.

Furthermore, the introduction of Bill C-27 and its accompanying Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) complicates the landscape. Although AIDA was announced alongside phase two of the AI strategy in June 2022, it has yet to materialize, leading many industry experts, including renowned AI researchers like Yoshua Bengio, to express skepticism about its future. As Canada falls behind California and other regions in terms of AI regulation, researchers, non-profits, and startups find themselves navigating murky waters, struggling to operate within existing legal frameworks.

Looking ahead, phase three of Canada's AI strategy must address the shortcomings of phase two, particularly in the areas of regulation, commercialization, and investment. This will require a careful reassessment of what needs to be prioritized in a rapidly evolving global environment. Strome recognizes the complexity of these issues and is committed to considering them as part of CIFAR's ongoing work.

As the conversation about the future of AI continues, it remains critical for Canada to define its strategy and execution effectively, ensuring that it remains a competitive player in the global AI landscape. With Elissa Strome actively thinking through these challenges and opportunities, the future of AI in Canada holds promise—provided the necessary steps are taken to address the gaps that currently exist.

In related news, an upcoming in-person event will explore the latest innovations in Canadian blockchain technology, emphasizing the importance of understanding and leveraging onchain technologies for founders, investors, and corporate leaders. This event promises to be a key opportunity for industry players to learn and network, diving into the ways blockchain is transforming various sectors.