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ARTICLE · 09 MARCH 2026

AI Governance: What Organizations Need To Know In 2026

MLT Aikins LLP
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Artificial intelligence has moved from pilot projects to core operations for many Canadian organizations.

CanadaTechnology
Kristél Kriel
Kristél Kriel
Karas Elbardisy
Karas Elbardisy
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Artificial intelligence has moved from pilot projects to core operations for many Canadian organizations. While Canada does not yet have comprehensive federal AI legislation, a patchwork of provincial initiatives, privacy laws and soft-law guidance now shapes how organizations must approach AI governance. This article surveys the current landscape – with a focus on Western Canada – and offers practical steps for compliance.

The federal picture: A work in progress

The Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (AIDA) did not proceed when Parliament was prorogued in January 2025, though its core concepts – risk-based classification, human oversight and accountability – continue to influence Canadian regulatory thinking. In May 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney appointed Evan Solomon as Canada's first Minister responsible for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, signalling that AI policy remains a priority for the Federal Government. An AI Strategy Task Force is now consulting on

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The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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