Minister Solomon announces $8.5M for 40 AI projects to help Atlantic Canadian businesses grow

From: Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency

News release

AI integration across sectors is fueling economic diversification, digital transformation, and global competitiveness 

March 3, 2026 · Halifax, Nova Scotia · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)  

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how businesses operate, and Atlantic Canadians are beginning to see real benefits from that shift. We have an opportunity to be part of this transformation, and to contribute to that economic growth and productivity. Across Atlantic Canada, many small businesses interested in using AI need support securing the time, money, or expertise to get started. That is why the Government of Canada is helping companies across sectors and at every stage, harness artificial intelligence to build the economy of the future.

Today, the Honourable Evan Solomon, Canada’s first Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, visited Volta in Halifax, Nova Scotia, announcing a federal investment for 40 projects that will help businesses and organizations adopt AI across Atlantic Canada. Through ACOA, the Government of Canada is investing over $8.5 million, helping:

  • small businesses reach more customers using AI-powered sales tools;

  • rural industries improve productivity through smart automation;

  • companies scale up AI systems for export and certification; and

  • workers gain digital skills through training and support.

These investments are creating new opportunities, increasing productivity, and helping Atlantic Canadian communities grow. As the economic and productivity benefits of new technologies continue to unfold, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting the nation’s AI ecosystem with targeted investments to help small and medium-sized enterprises incorporate AI into their business operations.

The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

Quotes

“Canada can help lead this AI shift, and giving small and medium-sized businesses the means to adapt to AI can further boost regional economies and national productivity. By supporting 40 projects across Atlantic Canada, we’re helping businesses adopt AI in real ways, so they can grow, compete, and create opportunities for workers in our communities.” 
- The Honourable Sean Fraser, P.C., K.C., Member of Parliament for Central Nova, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 

“Artificial intelligence is one of the greatest economic opportunities of our time. These investments will help Atlantic Canadian businesses scale AI, boost productivity, expand exports, and create high-quality jobs. By accelerating responsible adoption across the country, we are strengthening Canada’s competitiveness and positioning Atlantic Canadian firms to lead in the global digital economy.”
- The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario

“There’s incredible talent and ambition here in Nova Scotia. Entrepreneurs are using artificial intelligence in smart, practical ways to grow their business and bring new ideas to life. Students are building new skills, and companies are evolving to meet new opportunities. Today’s announcement highlights the importance of supporting the people and organizations creating good jobs and contributing to vibrant communities across Atlantic Canada.”
- Shannon Miedema, Member of Parliament for Halifax

Quick facts

  • The funding announced today is provided through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program and the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII).

  • The Government of Canada is investing $200 million over five years through the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII), delivered by Canada’s regional development agencies (RDAs), to foster artificial intelligence (AI) innovation that reflects regional strengths, accelerate AI adoption in critical sectors like agriculture, healthcare, clean technology, and manufacturing, and support local economic growth as part of Canada’s national AI strategy. 

  •  In Atlantic Canada, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) is delivering $15.7 million under the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) to help businesses turn their ideas into real world solutions that drive growth, create good jobs, and strengthen competitiveness. 

  •  Today’s announcement includes projects focused on advancing innovation, digital transformation, and supply-chain and market expansion across sectors including fish processing, manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

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Contacts

Sofia Ouslis  
Press Secretary  
Office of the Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Digital Innovation and the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario 
sofia.ouslis@ised-isde.gc.ca 

Lola Dandybaeva 
Manager of Media Relations 
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 
lola.dandybaeva@justice.gc.ca

Media Relations 
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency 
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca     
 

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2026-03-03