Canada faces a critical window of opportunity to define its economic future through leadership in robotics and AI. From the Canadarm to deep neural networks, AI-robotics excellence is deeply embedded in Canada's history and is a defining characteristic as a nation. However, a prevailing perception among Canadians is that the country's advanced technologies sector is either overshadowed by larger global players or out of touch with everyday realities. Reshaping this narrative is crucial, as broad public understanding and support are vital for fostering the policy changes and investment necessary for a robust, tech-driven economy.

Building a confident national identity around advanced technologies—one that effectively attracts business investment and talent—requires a collaborative effort. The insights of training institutions and economic development agencies are essential, as their expertise in leveraging place-based branding to drive economic growth and attract top talent is invaluable. Canadian robotics and AI experts, with their strong international networks, are uniquely positioned to illuminate the compelling stories and potential for a technology-enabled future, providing unique content to empower broader national awareness. This collaboration can create a powerful blueprint and storybook that showcases Canada as an advanced tech-faring nation, inspiring Canadians and attracting global partners. 

Our session will begin with a brief overview of robotics and AI in Canada (10 mins). The core discussion will examine specific case studies where other regions have successfully reshaped their self-image around robotics and AI through strategic public engagement (50 mins). We will then review how these strategies can be adapted to elevate Canada's national identity as a robotics and AI leader, enhancing its overall appeal for economic development, investment, and talent attraction across critical sectors, (e.g. mining, forestry, space, manufacturing), reflecting the country’s unique economic challenges and opportunities (30 mins).

Our goal is to co-create the foundations for a strong national narrative in AI-robotics. Key outcomes of this session include: 

• Identified Communication Gaps: A concise summary of challenges hindering public understanding and perception of Canada's robotics and AI innovation.
• Blueprint for Engagement: Initial strategic directions, stakeholders and actionable concepts for both grassroots and national approaches that empower partners (tourism, economic development, talent development) at a variety of scales to leverage Canada's AI-robotics strengths for investment, talent, and homegrown adoption.
• Narrative Building Blocks:  Core messages, compelling stories, and historical touchpoints from Canada's AI-robotics landscape to seed future campaigns.

Partner & Funding Pathways: Identification of potential key partners and preliminary funding considerations to sustain national awareness efforts.