We have now completed our Technology Leadership Program (Cycle 5) call for proposals. We selected six new projects with a total investment value of $57M and we are now working with these teams to launch these exciting projects [and will be announcing them over the coming months]. At the same time, we are committed to making sure that the programs and projects that are underway continue to advance and deliver the outcomes and impacts that are on the horizon.
At Digital, we are here to build a future where Canadian organizations are global industry leaders and where Canadians benefit from the prosperity and growth that comes from creating products and services that are meaningful across the country and around the world. We are now working closely with our colleagues in Industry, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and across the Global Innovation Clusters group to create the path forward for investing new funds. We were awarded $30 million to invest in AI commercialization as part of the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy. In addition, the Government of Canada committed an additional $750 million in Budget 2022 for the renewed and renamed Global Innovation Cluster program. To inform our approach, we are convening a series of briefing sessions including our Virtual Townhall to shape our priorities over the next five years.
These conversations are underway and we anticipate there will be opportunities to invest these new funds starting later this year.
As co-investment from the Government of Canada and our growing base of 1100+ Members increases in 2022-23 and beyond, we look forward to mobilizing break-through technology innovations and talent initiatives to:
- Build a productive, net-zero Canada by digitally transforming our natural resource and agri-food industries while ensuring our scaleups and anchor companies remain globally competitive – in a responsible, green and sustainable way.
- Build a healthier Canada by improving healthcare outcomes, building sustainable healthcare systems and making healthcare accessible to all.
- Build a highly skilled and connected Canada by supporting leadership programs, community-led capacity initiatives and unobstructed pathways to digital jobs. This includes working with remote and rural communities and Indigenous partners to establish digital connectivity, transform to clean energy and cultivate digital leaders within their communities.