Program duration: 2026-2033
To keep pace with rapid advances in productivity happening around the world, Canada needs to invest in technologies that boost productivity in measurable ways. AI-based tools have the potential to fundamentally change workflow, processes, training and other areas in need of optimization.
As established players in the AI research and development ecosystem, the NRC and other organizations in Canada are well placed to strengthen our country's competitive advantage, particularly in the 3 critical sectors where we could make the greatest impact:
- Clean technology
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
About the program
The AI for Productivity Challenge program aims to drive adoption of AI across Canada's clean technology, agriculture and manufacturing sectors to improve productivity, efficiency and profitability. Enhancing and maximizing productivity in these sectors will help drive Canada's economic security.
The experts working in this Challenge program will be encouraged to collaborate in AI innovation hubs and digital sandboxes. These hubs and sandboxes are secure experimental environments that will be powered by advanced software, AI compute infrastructure and the expertise of NRC researchers.
The program will focus on bringing projects at a high technology readiness level (TRL) to market. In this context, high TRL projects are AI-based prototypes being tested in an operational environment. The ultimate goal of this Challenge program is to deploy new technologies in industrial sectors.
Areas of focus
- Clean technology
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
Collaborate with us
This program allows experts to collaborate with other key players, including government, academic institutions and industry, to address industry-specific needs.
There will be ongoing opportunities for collaborators to get involved. To find out more, send an email to the AI Productivity team at NRC.AIProductivity-IAProductivite.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca.
The NRC's National Program Office offers grant and contribution funding for eligible collaborators with complementary expertise. Learn more about the NRC's funded collaborative R&D programs and initiatives.
Contact us
If you are interested in collaborating with us, making investments in this area, or if you have any questions, please contact:
AI for Productivity Challenge program
Merrina Zhang
Program Director
Email: NRC.AIProductivity-IAProductivite.CNRC@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
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