June 4, 2026 (OTTAWA, ON) – U15 Canada welcomes the recognition of the essential role of research and talent development in Canada’s new AI strategy, AI for All, which includes the creation of additional Canada CIFAR AI Chairs.
Canada’s leading research universities are home to cutting-edge research in artificial intelligence that has helped establish Canada as a global leader in this transformative technology. Continued support for this research and the necessary digital infrastructure, including sovereign compute capacity, will help drive future innovation and advance the responsible adoption and application of AI to address the challenges and opportunities facing Canadians.
The strategy also clearly identifies the importance of talent development to ensure that Canadians have the skills, expertise and digital literacy to succeed in an AI-powered future. Leading research universities play a key role in developing talent and providing training in AI literacy skills. We look forward to working closely with the federal government to create more opportunities for Canadians working and researching in artificial intelligence.
“It is good to see the vital role of research and talent development reflected in the federal government’s new AI strategy. Canada’s leading research universities are a national asset in seizing the opportunities of AI and preparing Canadians with the skills to adapt and succeed in the future economy,” said Robert Asselin, CEO of U15 Canada.
“Our universities look forward to working closely with CIFAR to enhance Canada’s AI advantage through these additional chairs,” added Mr. Asselin.
About U15 Canada
U15 Canada is an association of fifteen leading research universities across Canada. U15 Canada works to optimize research and innovation policies and programs that advance knowledge, develop highly-qualified leaders for all sectors, and mobilize knowledge for the benefit of all Canadians. In this way, U15 Canada seeks to help Canadian universities make a prosperous, sustainable and just future for all.
For further information, please contact:
James Hammond, Director of Public Affairs
james.hammond@u15.ca
613-715-4764
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