Quebec allocates $36 million to bolster artificial intelligence research at Mila, the province’s premier AI institute, even as U.S. companies announce widespread layoffs linked to AI adoption.
Government Boosts AI Leadership
Economy, Innovation and Energy Minister Jean Boulet announced the funding at Mila’s Montreal headquarters. The investment supports Mila’s mission to advance world-class AI research, promote ethical development, and integrate AI technologies into local businesses.
“In a highly competitive global environment, we must make strategic choices to preserve our strengths,” Boulet stated. “This support consolidates our expertise and translates research into innovations, skilled jobs, and economic growth in Quebec.”
Part of Broader Innovation Push
The $36 million stems from Quebec’s $7.5 billion five-year innovation strategy, launched in 2022. It incentivizes research, commercialization, and productivity gains. Previously, the province pledged up to $80 million to Mila starting in 2018.
Mila’s Growth and Impact
Founded in 1993 by Turing Award winner Yoshua Bengio, Mila collaborates with Université de Montréal and McGill University. Under scientific director Hugo Larochelle, it emphasizes commercializing AI breakthroughs. Mila partners with Inovia Capital on a $100 million USD venture fund to spin out startups from academic research.
The institute aligns with federal efforts through the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, alongside peers like Toronto’s Vector Institute and Edmonton’s Alberta Machine Intelligence Institute.
Navigating AI’s Job Market Risks
Officials highlight AI’s potential for job creation while addressing risks. Recent U.S. data reveals AI as a factor in over 54,000 layoffs in 2025, fueling concerns about workforce displacement. Quebec aims to mitigate such issues by fostering responsible AI that generates high-quality employment opportunities.
