Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta government has announced a $50-million investment over the next five years in the Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute (Amii), aiming to accelerate artificial intelligence adoption across government services, healthcare, education and industry while reinforcing the province’s position as a global AI hub.
The funding will be used to advance AI-driven solutions in public services, support research and commercialization, help businesses integrate emerging technologies and prepare Albertans for careers in an increasingly AI-powered economy.
Premier Danielle Smith said Alberta’s long-term investment in artificial intelligence research is now translating into practical benefits for residents and businesses. She noted that the province intends to use AI not only to improve government services but also to attract investment and create high-value employment opportunities.
Technology and Innovation Minister Nate Glubish said Alberta’s early commitment to AI research has helped establish a globally respected ecosystem. He highlighted Amii’s role in housing internationally recognized researchers, including Turing Award recipient Richard Sutton, and said the latest investment would help bring AI innovations from research labs into everyday public and commercial use.
The funding will be shared among five provincial ministries:
- Technology and Innovation – $15 million
- Advanced Education – $15 million
- Assisted Living and Social Services – $10 million
- Primary and Preventative Health Services – $5 million
- Education and Childcare – $5 million
According to the government, the investment is expected to support projects that improve healthcare delivery, modernize public services, strengthen workforce skills and encourage Alberta-based businesses to develop AI-powered products and services.
Officials said the initiative also aligns with Alberta’s broader strategy of ensuring that intellectual property developed through publicly funded research remains within the province. The government plans to work alongside the recently established Alberta Intellectual Property Office to help protect, commercialize and retain AI innovations developed in Alberta.
Amii Chief Executive Officer Cam Linke welcomed the announcement, saying the investment would help strengthen Alberta’s AI ecosystem by supporting startups, encouraging wider industry adoption and expanding AI education and workforce development.
Recognized as one of Canada’s three national AI institutes, Amii has earned an international reputation for its work in reinforcement learning, a field in which Alberta has become a global leader. Provincial officials said continued investment in the sector is expected to generate long-term economic growth, attract global talent and ensure Alberta remains competitive in one of the world’s fastest-growing technology industries.
