PrairiesCan opens intake for expanded AI initiative

Applications are open for the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, which recently received a $500-million boost from the federal government. The five-year expansion brings total federal funding for the program to $700 million. "Through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative, our government is helping businesses across Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba adopt AI, commercialize Canadian-made solutions and compete in a rapidly changing global economy," Eleanor Olszewski, the federal minister responsible for PrairiesCan, said in an announcement made in Edmonton on Oct. 22. She added that the initiative aims to "boost productivity, competitiveness and resilience for Prairie businesses and drive lasting economic growth."

The RAII provides funding to help Canadian AI companies bring their products and services to market and scale in Canada and globally. It also helps the organizations that support those companies, as well as helping businesses and organizations that are adopting and integrating AI. Prairie projects must focus on priority areas including advanced manufacturing, clean resources, clean technology, digital industries, life sciences, natural resources processing, value-added agriculture, or inclusiveness. Preference may be given to small- and medium-sized businesses with fewer than 500 employees.

Applications begin with a short expression of interest outlining the proposed project, its activities, and a budget. Selected applicants will then be invited to submit a full application. Intake will continue until Dec. 31, 2029, or until the available funding has been committed. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, and all projects must be completed by March 31, 2031. Federal contributions will range between $250,000 and $5 million per project over a maximum of three years.