Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) for Southern Ontario

Understanding the Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) Program: AI Funding for Nonprofit Organizations

FedDev Ontario's Regional Artificial Intelligence Initiative (RAII) offers extensive funding opportunities to not-for-profit organizations in Southern Ontario looking to integrate AI solutions. The program recognizes that many organizations need support to adopt AI technologies that can improve their operations and better serve their communities.

Funding Amount of RAII

For nonprofit organizations, the RAII Adoption Pillar provides non-repayable contributions ranging from $125,000 to $5 million per project. The program is intended for organizations that support businesses in Southern Ontario and have proven success in their community.

How to Qualify for RAII

To qualify for the program, your organization must be incorporated in Canada or Ontario and have a clear IP policy that addresses ownership and third-party rights. Supplemental funding is encouraged under the program, with FedDev Ontario preferring a contribution of no more than 50% of the total project cost.

Deadline for Southern Ontario RAII

The application period runs from October 22, 2024 to December 20, 2024 at 4:59 PM EST. Organizations can only submit one application during this period, so it's worth taking the time to prepare a strong proposal.

What You Need in the Proposal

What makes a good proposal? The program is looking for projects that demonstrate the following

• Focus on a transformative AI application rather than simple automation

• Clear project planning with realistic budgets and timelines

• Strong risk mitigation measures

• Commitment to responsible AI principles

• Understanding of legal and regulatory requirements

For non-profit organizations, eligible projects focus on supporting organizations in the adoption of AI through several key activities:

• Facilitating AI integration

• Operation of technology test environments

• Organization of matchmaking events

• Provision of training programs

• Development of best practices

The program emphasizes responsible AI development and requires applicants to demonstrate a commitment to ethical principles such as cybersecurity, human oversight, data stewardship, safety, fairness, accuracy and authenticity.

Important considerations for your application include:

• Projects must be completed by March 31, 2029

• Counterpart funding must be confirmed within 30 days of approval

• Your organization must have a proven ability to manage the project

• The application requires both an application for funding and an RAII supplemental form

Note that the funding decision will be based on the quality of the application and its compliance with the program objectives. The program places particular emphasis on projects that are broad, representative and diverse in their approach and impact.

Responsible AI

All approved projects must emphasize responsible AI development and clearly demonstrate how the integration of AI will benefit both your organization and the businesses you serve. While the funding is substantial, it comes with the expectation that your organization will contribute to building AI capacity in the Southern Ontario business community.

Organizations considering this opportunity must demonstrate how their project will achieve sustainable impact through strategic AI integration, knowledge sharing and capacity building. The focus should be on developing sustainable approaches to AI adoption that can benefit multiple organizations in your network.

More details and application guidelines can be found on the FedDev Ontario website. Given the one-time application and significant funding available, it's important to take the time to develop a comprehensive proposal aligned with the program objectives.

Are you a not for profit that needs help developing an AI strategy that aligns with this program? Contact: https://RegionalAI.ca

Background

Canada and countries around the world have been pursuing policies to both legislate the safety of AI or increase investments in both the public and private sector.

“Canada's system of AI governance has continued to evolve with a distinctive focus on enabling AI research and talent acquisition, leadership in ethical AI, and multistake-holderism in AI policymaking” [1]

In Europe there are major initiatives in both of these areas.

“It may be possible that certain “styles” or approaches to stimulating AI in government are emerging, with some governments focusing strongly on improving data ecosystems.” [2]

And many nations have been grappling with the security and safety issues around AI for many years.

“A spate of recently released national strategic AI plans provides valuable insights into how nations are considering their future trajectories.” [3] 

[1] Attard-Frost, B., Brandusescu, A., & Lyons, K. (2024). The governance of artificial intelligence in Canada: Findings and opportunities from a review of 84 AI governance initiatives. Government Information Quarterly.  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0740624X24000212?via%3Dihub

[2] van Noordt, C., Medaglia, R., & Tangi, L. (2024). Policy initiatives for Artificial Intelligence-enabled government: An analysis of national strategies in Europe. Sage Journals. https://doi.org/10.1177/09520767231198411

[3] Fatima, S., Desouza, K. C., & Dawson, G. S. (2020). National strategic artificial intelligence plans: A multi-dimensional analysis. ScienceDirect.com. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0313592620304021