WLU, Balsillie School to launch the Digital Governance Initiative with $5M

Wilfrid Laurier University and the Balsillie School of International Affairs have received a $5M gift from philanthropist Jim Balsillie to launch the Digital Governance Initiative. The initiative will include professional programs, a legal advisory centre for international trade and technology governance, and a proposed new graduate degree focused on topics such as law and digital sovereignty. “Innovation without governance leaves us vulnerable; governance without innovation stagnates progress,” said Balsillie School Director Ann Fitz-Gerald. “Through this initiative, we will equip the next trade negotiators, public servants and legal professionals with the skills to lead in a data-driven, digitally mediated world.”