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Evan Solomon Sworn In as Canada’s First Minister of AI and Digital Innovation

The new cabinet role highlights Prime Minister Mark Carney's focus on AI policy, infrastructure, and global competitiveness.

Eleanor Olszewski, the new Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, and Evan Solomon, the new Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, arrive ahead of a cabinet shuffle at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, May 13, 2025.  REUTERS/Patrick Doyle
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Overview

  • Evan Solomon, a first-term MP for Toronto Centre and former journalist, has been appointed as Canada’s first dedicated Minister of AI and Digital Innovation.
  • The new ministerial portfolio reflects the government’s commitment to advancing AI adoption, commercialization, and regulatory frameworks.
  • Industry leaders have praised the move, emphasizing the need for targeted policies to attract talent, enhance AI infrastructure, and support startups.
  • Canada’s AI global ranking has declined from fourth to eighth, with significant talent migration to the U.S., prompting calls for urgent action.
  • Ottawa’s previously announced $2 billion AI compute and data-centre program remains a critical area of focus, with stakeholders awaiting funding disbursement.