Nearly 800 participants gathered, both virtually and in person, to listen to some 40 panelists discuss the state of the sector, the future of AI, and concrete applications in business.
This annual meeting allowed us to measure the progress made, which has led to the emergence of a strong, dynamic and flourishing ecosystem, in addition to promoting the creation of ties between key players from all industrial sectors in Quebec.
“Industry, research and government players have developed an innovative collaborative partnership. Together, we are finding solutions to the most complex issues and helping to ensure Canada’s leadership in innovation on a global scale.”
– Hélène Desmarais, co-chair of the Scale AI Board of Directors
These valuable exchanges also demonstrated that the AI sector is thriving and continuing to grow. Quebec’s enviable position internationally is undeniable and according to the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, we must move on to the next step, which is the industrialization of artificial intelligence in order to deploy its full potential here and distinguish ourselves internationally.
The integration of AI in companies also represents a vector of growth, productivity and competitiveness with significant benefits for the entire Quebec economy. It is particularly important to support many SMEs and high-potential start-ups to accelerate their growth and to provide an on-ramp for global leaders to emerge.
“With the extension of funding announced in the 2022 federal budget, Scale AI will build on its momentum and help develop an industry of the future, with a particular focus on small and medium-sized enterprises. We must continue to democratize artificial intelligence, by reducing the complexity of projects to allow more small companies to access these technologies.”
– Julien Billot, Executive Director of Scale AI
The prosperity and vitality of the ecosystem is linked to the ongoing collaborative approach, which then acts as a true economic and social driver. Marie-Paule Jeansonne, President and CEO of Forum IA Québec, says: “As a world leader in AI, Quebec can be proud of the strength and creativity of the players in its ecosystem. Let’s continue to join forces to ensure the growth of the sector and commercialize our AI applications.”
To conclude the one-day panel discussion, Michel Leblanc, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of Metropolitan Montreal, said: “Artificial intelligence in Quebec and Canada must now move to a new stage in its development. We must enter a phase of industrialization and democratization, with the implementation of AI solutions in an increased pool of businesses.”
Moreover, this edition closed with the presentation of the first edition of the Quebec Excellence in AI Awards, which I had the pleasure of presenting, highlighting the role of various organizations in the deployment of AI in Quebec and its international influence. As collaboration within our ecosystem solidifies and many projects unfold, it is time to create opportunities to celebrate the successes of our organizations. Congratulations to the 2022 winners!
Coveo – AI company with the most international success
XpertSea – Quebec AI Start-up of the Year
Optimization of Operating Room Planning (CHUM) – Best AI Project for the Common Good
Cargo2 AI Project (Port of Montreal) – Best integration of AI in a product/service or business process
