Canada’s AI Plan in Action

A Clear Strategy for Responsible AI Use

In 2025, the Government of Canada introduced a new AI strategy for its public service. The

 goal is not to replace workers, but to use AI tools that help public servants do their jobs better.

 The strategy outlines how departments can use AI safely and fairly—while making sure the public understands when and how AI is being used.

This is not just a policy document. It’s a real, government-wide plan that affects how services are delivered, how employees are trained, and how decisions are made. The strategy builds on earlier work and introduces new rules, training efforts, and pilot projects already underway.

What the Strategy Includes

• Governance and rules: Each department must review and report its AI activities. This includes doing impact assessments before using automated systems.

• Training for employees: Public servants at all levels will receive AI training, from basic literacy to technical skills like prompt writing and risk evaluation.

• Hiring and support: The government will recruit skilled AI professionals and create apprenticeships to grow talent from within.

• Public involvement: A national consultation helped shape the strategy. Over 300 public responses were reviewed to decide how AI should be used in services.

The AI strategy has several parts:

The plan also connects with other digital efforts like Canada’s data strategy, cybersecurity policies, and cloud computing roadmap.

Real Examples in Practice

The strategy is already influencing real projects. For example, one pilot uses AI to monitor trade routes and border infrastructure in real time. Another project focuses on forecasting government budgets using machine learning tools. These efforts were selected through a national challenge aimed at solving real government problems.

Departments are also exploring how AI can support internal tasks like scheduling, translation, and drafting reports—while staying away from high-risk areas like law enforcement or hiring.

Why This Strategy Matters

This approach is unique because it focuses on careful, open use of AI. It puts human decision-makers at the center, with AI acting only as a tool. It avoids risky or sensitive applications and focuses on areas where technology can make tasks faster or more accurate.

At the same time, it makes sure that systems are transparent and that the public has a clear understanding of how AI affects their interactions with government services.