Art and design universities call for $10M from federal government for AI training

The National Network of Canadian Art and Design Universities has submitted a request for the federal government’s budget, calling for $10M to support AI training for artists and creative organizations. The network—comprising Alberta University of the Arts, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, NSCAD University, and OCAD University—intends to use the funds to create a national workforce training program for creative professionals and small businesses. OCADU President Ana Serrano explained that the program would also help freelancers and sole proprietors who lack access to employer-sponsored training and are therefore more exposed to the impact of AI on creative work.