Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII)
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Strengthening AI innovation and adoption in Canada
Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have the potential to transform businesses and make them more competitive internationally. As countries around the world join the race to develop and use AI, Canada is already a leader in this field.
For this reason, the Government of Canada is making strategic investments to provide businesses across the country with the tools they need to adopt AI and to develop new technologies and processes that integrate AI.
Canada's regional development agencies (RDAs), including the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency (CanNor), are delivering $200 million through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) to help bring new AI technologies to market and speed up AI adoption in sectors across the country.
Through RAII, RDAs will support projects that help businesses turn their ideas into real-world solutions for Canadians and compete globally. CanNor received $4.1 million to support relevant projects in the territories. If your business or organization is exploring innovative projects that leverage or develop AI components, you are encouraged to apply.
Who can apply for RAII funding?
- Businesses such as partnerships, social enterprises, incorporated companies, corporations, co-operatives, and Indigenous-owned businesses.
- Not-for-profit organizations such as sectoral/industry associations, post-secondary educational institutions, etc.
- Indigenous-led not-for-profits and organizations.
- Municipal, provincial, or territorial governments, including crown corporations.
How to apply
If you have a project idea and would like to submit an application for funding under RAII, please fill out the Application Form.
Upon receipt, projects submitted are reviewed by regional economic development officers, and applicants may be invited to submit a full application. At that time, a generic application and any program specific applications may be provided.