Ottawa investing $2B into AI research, growth

The Liberal government is setting aside $2.4 billion in the upcoming budget to build capacity in artificial intelligence.

- NAWA TAHIR SIDHARTHA BANERJEE

Most of the money — $2 billion — will be allocated toward advancing technological infrastructure for AI researchers and companies.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made the announcement in Montreal Sunday as part of his government’s pre-budget tour.

The Liberals have been setting up their April 16 financial plan with a series of campaign-style stops around the country. Other announcements ahead of the budget have included funds for housing and a national school food program.

The announcement is aimed at “unlocking and developing AI potential to create more jobs for young Canadians,” the government said in a press release.

“Our renewed focus today is unlocking the door to the middle class for millions of younger Canadians,” Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland said at a press conference at U of T’s Schwartz-Reisman Innovation Centre.