Canada’s AI strategy has a proprietary blind spot

The government’s plan to build sovereign AI infrastructure continues to funnel money into foreign-controlled models. Open-source AI remains the missing pillar.

The ISED consultation revealed that 11,300 Canadians already grasp the importance. The question now is whether policymakers will match that understanding with investments that provide real control, not just the framework, writes Tesh W. Dagne. Image courtesy of Pixabay

Opinion

BY TESHAGER W. DAGNE

May 4, 2026

TORONTO–When a nurse at a Montreal hospital consults an AI system to help identify a patient for early sepsis intervention, they probably do not realize that the model behind that suggestion was likely created in California, and is governed by American law. Under the U.S. ...

To keep reading, subscribe and become a political insider.

Only $7.76 a week for an annual subscription.

Enjoy unlimited website access and the digital newspaper.

Cancel anytime.

Already a Subscriber?

Get Innovation & Industry Newsletter

From investment to regulation, the policies, decisions and people working on industry and innovation. Tuesday.

By entering your email address you consent to receive email from The Hill Times containing news, analysis, updates and offers. You may unsubscribe at any time. See our privacy policy

FOLLOW THE HILL TIMES: