Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative
Strengthening Canada’s leadership in AI innovation and adoption
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful tool that has the potential to transform the economy across all industries in Canada. Responsible development of AI holds tremendous economic potential in terms of commercialization, innovation, productivity and competitiveness, and has the potential to generate a range of social and environmental benefits for Canadians.
The global race to scale up and adopt AI is on, and Canada is at the forefront of this technology. As part of Budget 2024, the Government of Canada has allocated $200 million to Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs) to help bring new AI technologies to market and help accelerate AI adoption in critical sectors such as agriculture, healthcare, clean technology, manufacturing and other sectors of regional importance.
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) will provide support through two streams:
AI productization and commercialization will help AI start-ups and growing firms scale up and address common challenges on their journey from lab prototypes to real-world applications, including securing growth capital, hiring the right people, managing data, and navigating regulatory frameworks.
Adoption of AI applications across critical sectors will address the AI adoption lag among Canadian businesses and help enhance productivity, growth and competitiveness. Support will focus on addressing challenges faced by SMEs, such as skills gaps, AI integration complexities, and compliance with regulatory and industry standards.
Through the RAII, ACOA is helping to bridge the gap between cutting-edge AI research and broader marketplace consumption with support for Atlantic Canadian businesses.
Eligibility
Eligible recipients are those currently eligible for support through the Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program, including businesses, not-for-profit organizations, Indigenous organizations and municipal, provincial and territorial governments.
How to apply
Contact your nearest ACOA office to discuss your project and then complete and submit the application for financial assistance.
Contact us today!
Want to learn more? ACOA Business Information Services is your one-stop information shop. Call 1-888-576-4444 to discuss our programs and see if the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative is the right support for you.
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Hours of operation: Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm (Atlantic time)
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