OTTAWA, CANADA / RankWire.AI / – Prime Minister Mark Carney has formed a national council dedicated to guiding Canada’s artificial intelligence policies and implementation strategies. Following its announcement on October 2, 2026, the Prime Minister’s National Council on Artificial Intelligence has commenced operations. Its role is to counsel the federal government on issues including AI safety, economic integration, public service applications, and the development of sovereign technological capabilities. Additionally, the council will assess infrastructure, talent development, research initiatives, and the risks associated with the expanding influence of artificial intelligence across Canada.
This advisory panel comprises experts from diverse sectors such as technology, research, finance, government, and national security. Notable members include Yoshua Bengio, Sanja Fidler, Ajay Agrawal, Valérie Pisano, Michelle Zatlyn, and former national security adviser Jody Thomas. The council also features Senator Thomas Pitfield, John Graham, Gillian Hadfield, Jordan Jacobs, Eric Lamarre, and Louis Vachon. Patrick Pichette serves as an ex officio member. The Privy Council Office will support the council with a dedicated team to facilitate its work.
While the council offers strategic advice, it does not possess independent authority to establish or enforce federal policies. Decision-making and implementation remain within the purview of ministers and government departments. The council’s primary focus is providing guidance that supports Canada’s broader AI objectives. Its remit includes fostering AI adoption, building public trust, supporting Canadian tech firms, and strengthening domestic infrastructure. Additionally, the council will address governance issues, safety concerns, and threats to democratic institutions. Mark Carney’s administration has directly linked this new entity to the national AI for All framework.
National plan establishes targets for AI adoption and growth
Canada rolled out its AI for All initiative in June 2026 as the country’s overarching artificial intelligence strategy. The framework prioritizes trust, economic potential, and maintaining Canadian control over vital capabilities. It is structured around six pillars: public protection, skills development, business adoption, sovereign infrastructure, domestic companies, and international partnerships. The strategy also addresses privacy, online safety, and the security of government systems. Ottawa presents this plan as a coordinated effort to foster AI development across both the economy and public sector.
The government has set ambitious measurable goals for this strategy, aiming to increase AI adoption from just over 12% to 60% by 2034. It also targets generating C$200 billion in additional economic growth and creating 250,000 jobs related to AI within five years. The plan includes initiatives for up to 90,000 jobs and internships for young Canadians. In September, Ottawa allocated up to C$162 million to support 10,000 AI-focused placements through Mitacs AI Advantage.
Broader AI efforts integrate with digital modernization efforts
As Ottawa advances its digital transformation, the new council coincides with the expansion of federal digital initiatives. In September 2026, Digital Transformation Canada was launched to overhaul systems and streamline technology procurement processes. This agency consolidates Shared Services Canada and various functions from other federal entities, aiming to enhance how departments develop, acquire, and deploy digital tools. Patrick Pichette was appointed chief executive on September 9, 2026, and his role also places him on the national AI council as an ex officio member.
The Prime Minister’s National Council on Artificial Intelligence is expected to offer recommendations as Canada’s federal AI program evolves. Its responsibilities include guidance on adoption, workforce needs, public services, infrastructure, safety, and strengthening Canadian technological capacity. The council will also evaluate governance issues and measures to safeguard democratic institutions from AI-related risks. Federal agencies will continue to implement policies and manage programs, with the council serving as an advisory body within this framework. AI for All remains the central blueprint for Canada’s national AI strategy.