Vector Institute (Canada)

The Vector Institute is an independent, non-profit research institute dedicated to advancing artificial intelligence (AI), specifically deep learning, in Canada. Established in March 2017, it aims to drive AI research excellence, foster AI adoption and economic growth, and train AI talent.

Located in Toronto, Ontario, the Vector Institute collaborates with universities, hospitals, and industry partners to conduct fundamental and applied AI research. Its research areas include machine learning, natural language processing, computer vision, and reinforcement learning, among others.

A core mission of the Vector Institute is to increase the number of AI experts in Canada. It achieves this through various training programs, scholarships, and partnerships with educational institutions. These initiatives are designed to develop both foundational AI knowledge and practical skills relevant to industry needs.

The Vector Institute plays a significant role in shaping Canada's AI ecosystem by supporting the creation of AI-based businesses and attracting international AI talent. It actively engages with policymakers to inform AI-related regulations and promote responsible AI development and deployment. The institute receives funding from the Government of Ontario, the Government of Canada through the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy, and a consortium of private sector companies.