Federal investment strengthens cybersecurity collaboration and innovation in Atlantic Canada
News release
Cybersecurity summit brings together industry, government, academia and students in Fredericton
August 28, 2026 · Fredericton, New Brunswick · Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA)
Cybersecurity is essential to Canada’s digital economy, helping businesses, governments and communities protect critical systems while supporting innovation and growth. Investments in cybersecurity research and collaboration help strengthen Canada’s capacity to address emerging threats while developing the skilled workforce needed for the future.
Today, David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Fredericton—Oromocto, announced federal support for the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity (CIC) at the University of New Brunswick to deliver the Privacy, Security and Trust (PST) Cybersecurity Summit 2026, held in Fredericton on August 20 ($50,000 non-repayable).
This contribution supported the summit in bringing together industry, government, academia and students to discuss advances in cybersecurity research, artificial intelligence and security applications. The event provided opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration while showcasing New Brunswick’s strengths in cybersecurity research and innovation.
Today’s announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to strengthening Canada’s innovation economy, supporting research excellence and developing the skilled workforce needed to compete in an increasingly digital world.
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
“Investments in cybersecurity help strengthen Canada’s economy by supporting innovation, collaboration and the development of skilled talent. By supporting the PST Cybersecurity Summit 2026, we are helping bring together experts from across sectors to share knowledge, advance research and strengthen Canada’s growing cybersecurity ecosystem.”
- 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
“Fredericton has earned a strong reputation as a centre of excellence for cybersecurity research and innovation. The PST Cybersecurity Summit 2026 brought together experts, researchers, businesses and students to share knowledge and build relationships that support the continued growth of this important sector in our community and across Atlantic Canada.”
- David Myles, Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Member of Parliament for Fredericton—Oromocto
“CIC’s annual Cybersecurity Summit brought together leading experts to explore how cybersecurity and AI are reshaping our digital future. Strengthening Canada’s capabilities in these areas is essential to our national security, economic prosperity, and global competitiveness."
- Ali Ghorbani, Director, Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity
Quick facts
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The Privacy, Security and Trust (PST) Cybersecurity Summit 2026 was held in Fredericton, New Brunswick, on August 20, 2026.
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Hosted by the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity and the PST Network, the PST Cybersecurity Summit 2026 brought together leaders from industry, government, academia and international research organizations to discuss cybersecurity challenges, emerging threats, cyber resilience and digital trust. The summit preceded PST 2026 in Ottawa, which featured academic and technical presentations focused on cybersecurity.
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The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s (ACOA) support helped deliver the summit and create opportunities for knowledge sharing, networking and collaboration among cybersecurity stakeholders.
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The Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity at the University of New Brunswick is one of Canada's leading cybersecurity research centres.
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Funding announced today was provided through ACOA's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program.
Associated links
Contacts
Jeanne Joannie Fogue Mgamgne
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
joannie.fogue@justice.gc.ca
Media Relations
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency
mediaroom-salledesmedias@acoa-apeca.gc.ca
Hugh Hicks
A/Deputy Director
Cybersecurity Attribution Data Centre (CADC) at the Canadian Institute for Cybersecurity
hugh.hicks@unb.ca
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