Indigenous Peoples in Canada are eager to engage with AI, but systemic barriers limit their participation in the digital economy, says Natiea Vinson, CEO of the First Nations Technology Council.

“Indigenous Peoples recognize AI’s potential — from language and cultural revitalization to streamlined business operations — but face distinct, systemic barriers to accessing and benefiting from these tools,” wrote Vinson, a member of the government’s AI Strategy Task Force, in a submission for recommendations on Canada’s AI strategy.

Connectivity gaps, trust deficits and inadequate sustained funding for training and digital transformation are limiting Indigenous Peoples’ participation in the digital economy, Vinson said. “Addressing these challenges requires immediate, targeted investment that recognizes the distinct needs and rights of Indigenous communities.”

Vinson’s submission was based on consultations with Indigenous leaders, organizations and over 2,000 learners and alumni from the Council’s network. It made four recommendations:

Invest $5.2 billion to close the First Nations broadband gap by 2030.
Allocate part of the $2 billion Sovereign AI Compute Strategy to Indigenous governments and organizations.
Create a national fund to support Indigenous-led digital transformation.
Establish permanent funding for Indigenous-led AI education and workforce training.

“Without these targeted investments, the digital divide will widen, further marginalizing Indigenous Peoples from economic opportunities and technological advancement,” Vinson wrote.