Canada invests CAD 13.9 million in Quebec AI projects
AI adoption accelerates as Canada funds 63 innovation projects across Quebec.
The Government of Canada has announced nearly CAD 13.9 million (approximately €8.8 million) in funding for 63 AI projects across Quebec under the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), aiming to accelerate AI adoption among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
The funding will support projects focused on both developing AI technologies and integrating AI into existing business operations. The government said the initiative will help SMEs improve productivity, develop innovative solutions and strengthen regional economic growth.
According to the government, the programme is expected to support more than 1,700 jobs across Quebec while helping businesses innovate more quickly, improve operational efficiency and seize new commercial opportunities. The announcement was made by Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation Evan Solomon on behalf of Industry Minister Mélanie Joly.
The investment forms part of Canada’s broader ‘AI for All’ strategy, launched in June 2026, which aims to expand access to AI, promote responsible adoption, strengthen domestic innovation and reinforce Canada’s digital sovereignty.
The Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative will continue operating in Quebec until March 2031. Canadian officials said the programme is intended to strengthen regional innovation ecosystems, expand AI capabilities among businesses and position Quebec as a leading centre for AI talent and technological development.
According to the government, combining responsible AI adoption with targeted regional investment will strengthen competitiveness while ensuring the benefits of AI are shared more broadly across businesses and communities.
Why does it matter?
The initiative reflects Canada’s growing focus on regional AI development rather than concentrating investment solely in major technology hubs. Supporting AI adoption among SMEs could help spread productivity gains more widely across the economy while strengthening local innovation ecosystems.
The programme also illustrates how industrial policy is becoming an important component of national AI strategies. By combining public funding, regional development and responsible AI governance, Canada is seeking to strengthen long-term competitiveness while reinforcing domestic technological capacity.
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