VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 15, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Web Summit Vancouver, DIGITAL, Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for Digital Technology, convened business, technology, government, and ecosystem leaders to address a critical national challenge: transforming Canada's world-class innovation into commercial growth, export success, and long-term economic value.
Roundtable Focuses on AI Deployment
The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, joined Canadian AI and business leaders for a roundtable hosted by DIGITAL and the AI Network of BC. The discussion centered on barriers slowing real-world AI deployment, including procurement, commercialization pathways, talent, and infrastructure. Participants explored practical actions to convert Canada's AI advantage into productivity gains and stronger economic resilience.
Government and Industry Collaboration
“At Web Summit Vancouver, DIGITAL once again demonstrated its role as a pillar of our national tech ecosystem,” said the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry. “DIGITAL's AI roundtable convened leading founders and innovators for an impactful discussion on how Canadian companies can deploy AI across key sectors.”
Minister Solomon emphasized the importance of such events: “Events like Web Summit Vancouver are critical for strengthening partnerships across the AI sector and connecting with visionaries shaping the future of technology. Leaders like DIGITAL facilitate discussions that help turn Canada's AI advantage into tangible benefits for Canadians.”
Moving from Strategy to Adoption
Canada stands at a turning point where AI leadership will be determined less by research strength and more by how quickly companies and public institutions adopt and scale trusted Canadian-made solutions. DIGITAL's series of leadership events aimed to accelerate this shift from potential to practical impact.
“With our partner AI Network of BC, we were pleased to have Minister Solomon at the table with B.C. entrepreneurs and AI leaders at such an important moment for Canada's AI future,” said Elysa Darling, Chief Operating Officer of DIGITAL. “B.C. companies are building and deploying AI solutions that improve productivity, strengthen industries, and create economic opportunities. This roundtable brought real business experience to the national conversation so Canada can scale its AI companies, build trust, and ensure AI delivers long-term value for Canadians.”
The roundtable underscored the need for collaborative efforts among government, industry, and academia to foster an environment where AI innovations can thrive commercially. Participants agreed that addressing procurement challenges and developing clear commercialization pathways are essential for turning research into real-world applications.
As Web Summit Vancouver concluded, DIGITAL reaffirmed its commitment to driving Canadian AI from strategy to adoption. The cluster will continue to support initiatives that connect innovators with markets, investors, and policymakers, aiming to position Canada as a global leader in AI deployment and economic growth.
