Deloitte Canada and SaskTel have formed a strategic alliance to accelerate the development and deployment of artificial intelligence across the country. Announced on Tuesday, the partnership focuses on enhancing Canada’s sovereign AI infrastructure and fostering the creation of new intellectual property.
A key component of their initiative is establishing an “AI factory” in Saskatchewan, which will expand computing capacity and serve as a foundation for industry-specific applications in healthcare, mining and agriculture. Additionally, the initiative includes an Applied AI lab that will collaborate with universities and research institutions to advance practical AI solutions and promote a sustainable adoption ecosystem.
“Canada’s future relies on building strong, sovereign and safe AI and digital infrastructure,” said Anthony Viel, CEO of Deloitte Canada and Chile. “This alliance shows how together, Deloitte and SaskTel are enabling responsible AI innovation to help secure our nation’s place as a global leader in the digital economy.”
Deloitte said it is using its expertise in AI strategy, while SaskTel contributes its data center and network capabilities. Through the alliance, the two aim to position Canada as a leader in AI-driven economic growth.
The announcement is part of a broader effort to integrate AI responsibly into the public and private sectors. Canada recently signed a memorandum of understanding with Toronto-based Cohere to explore AI applications across federal agencies and enhance the country’s ability to export AI solutions. Ottawa also established the Safe and Secure Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group, a 10-member panel tasked with advising on AI-related risks and collaborating with the Canadian AI Safety Institute on research and governance priorities.