Federal government allots $8.5M to help grow AI projects in Atlantic Canada

Maritime businesses get AI funding boost

Small businesses in Atlantic Canada received a boost from the federal government to help grow AI projects.

The government is allotting $8.5 million to 40 projects in the region focused on:

• advancing innovation
• digital transformation
• supply-chain and market expansion across sectors such as fish processing, manufacturing, health care, and education

“The gap between discovery and deployment is what we’re closing and it doesn’t just happen in Toronto, it’s happening in Vancouver and it’s happening here. This hub is very special,” said Evan Solomon, minister of AI and Digital Information, at a news conference in Halifax.

“There’s incredible talent and ambition here in Nova Scotia. Entrepreneurs are using artificial intelligence in smart, practical ways to grow their business and bring new ideas to life. Students are building new skills, and companies are evolving to meet new opportunities. Today’s announcement highlights the importance of supporting the people and organizations creating good jobs and contributing to vibrant communities across Atlantic Canada,” said Shannon Miedema, member of Parliament for Halifax, in a news release.

Ottawa is spending $200 million over five years to foster artificial intelligence innovation across the country.