Canada hosts first-ever national summit on AI and culture, announces advisory council

Following the summit co-hosted by the Canada and the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, the government announced it will establish an AI and Culture Advisory Council to help guide policy as artificial intelligence rapidly transforms cultural production and distribution.

The event brought together around 300 participants, including representatives from academia, industry, civil society and government.

Shaping Canada’s AI strategy

Officials said discussions at the summit will help inform the development of Canada’s next national artificial intelligence strategy, particularly in areas related to cultural production and digital transformation.

The advisory council will be a joint initiative led by Canada's Culture Minister Marc Miller and Minister of Artificial Intelligence Evan Solomon.

Canada’s first-ever National Summit on Artificial Intelligence and Culture. Photo: Marc Miller

According to the government, the council will work with stakeholders to address challenges posed by AI, including its impact on creative industries, while identifying opportunities for growth and innovation.

Focus on culture and innovation

The summit featured keynote speeches, panel discussions and demonstrations of AI applications in the cultural sector.

The sessions explored how artificial intelligence is transforming the creation and distribution of cultural content, including in fields such as music, film, publishing and digital media.

In a statement, Miller said Canada must ensure that technological change strengthens, rather than undermines, its cultural sector.

“Our culture is at the heart of who we are as Canadians and is a powerful driver of innovation, inclusion and economic growth,” he said, adding that artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and challenges for creators.

Solomon said the government aims to ensure that Canadians can benefit broadly from AI adoption.

“AI is for everyone. Our goal is to ensure every Canadian has the tools to use it and benefit from the opportunities it creates,” he said, highlighting the importance of the cultural sector in shaping national identity.

The government also emphasised the importance of international collaboration in shaping responsible AI systems.

Canada is continuing to engage with global partners through forums such as UNESCO, including through frameworks like the 2005 Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

In February, the government announced $300,000 in funding over two years to support the implementation of expert recommendations aimed at promoting best practices and awareness around AI in the cultural sector.