Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched a new National Council on Artificial Intelligence, creating an expert advisory body to help shape the country’s approach to AI development, adoption and regulation.

Announced in Ottawa on October 2, 2026, the council will advise the federal government on its national AI for All strategy, including how to expand AI adoption, support Canadian technology companies and develop domestic AI infrastructure.

The council brings together 12 members, including prominent researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and public-sector experts. Its announced members include AI researcher Yoshua Bengio, economist Ajay Agrawal, computer scientist Sanja Fidler and technology executive Michelle Zatlyn.

The council will provide advice on AI safety, governance, democratic protections and economic opportunities. Its work will also examine how Canada can strengthen its control over critical AI capabilities while encouraging innovation across industries.

The government says the council will help connect public and private organizations and identify opportunities for coordinated action. Federal ministers and departments will remain responsible for making policy decisions and implementing programs.

The launch forms part of Canada’s broader AI for All strategy, which sets targets for expanding AI adoption, supporting research and developing the country’s technology workforce. The government says the strategy aims to increase AI adoption and create new employment opportunities over the next five years.

The council’s recommendations could inform future federal decisions affecting Canadian businesses, workers, researchers and the country’s digital infrastructure.