OTTAWA - The federal government is adding $500 million over five years to the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, bringing total federal funding for the program to $700 million.
The announcement was made October 13 by Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation. The funding is part of AI for All, Canada’s National AI Strategy announced in June 2026.
Delivered through Canada’s regional development agencies, the expanded initiative will help businesses adopt and integrate AI to improve productivity, competitiveness and resilience. Support will focus on sectors including health and life sciences, energy and natural resources, transportation, agriculture, manufacturing and robotics.
The initiative also aims to help Canadian AI companies gain customers, attract investment, and commercialize Canadian-made products and services.
Southern Ontario, home to more than half of Canada’s AI firms, was highlighted as a national driver of AI talent and investment.
Source: Government of Canada (canada.ca, October 13, 2026)
