Vass Bednar

In this engaging discussion, Vass Bednar, Managing Director at the Canadian SHIELD Institute, Benjamin Bergen, President of the Council of Canadian Innovators, and Jaxson Khan, Founder of Aperture AI, delve into Budget 2025. They discuss the budget's narrative on capital investment and Canada's competitive edge, highlighting AI's presence yet limited funding. The conversation zeroes in on innovation priorities, concerns over foreign influence in procurement, and the need for effective measures to protect R&D and consumer interests.

Don Lenihan, President and CEO of Middle Ground Policy Research, and Vass Bednar, Managing Director of the Canadian Shield Institute, dive deep into Canada's digital sovereignty. They highlight the risk of U.S. tech giants controlling Canadian data, emphasizing the limited number of Canadian data centers. The conversation explores the implications of U.S. actions on Canadian data privacy and the urgent need for Canada to establish its own secure digital infrastructure. They also tackle the complexities in regulating digital platforms and the mounting influence of American technology on Canada.

Vass Bednar, a public policy and grocery expert, delves into the complexities of Canada’s grocery landscape. He discusses the emotional ties Canadians have to local products and how rising prices have turned grocery shopping into an act of patriotism. The conversation also addresses ethical issues surrounding price-fixing scandals and the monopolistic behaviors of major retailers. Bednar emphasizes the importance of government intervention and transparency in pricing to rebuild consumer trust.

Vass Bednar, a public policy entrepreneur, discusses Canada's tech policies at a pivotal political moment. Maroussia Lévesque, a Harvard Law lecturer, explores AI's role in safeguarding democracy and free elections, while highlighting regulation challenges. Renee Black, founder of GoodBot, emphasizes the urgent need to combat disinformation and establish digital rights frameworks. Together, they stress the significance of proactive measures, stakeholder engagement, and the necessity for Canada to forge its own path in AI and tech sovereignty.

Vass Bednar, a public policy expert and co-author of The Big Fix, joins to discuss the implications of having Evan Solomon as Canada's first Minister of A.I. They explore the potential of AI to enhance productivity while addressing the intricate balance of innovation and ethical considerations. Bednar expresses optimism about Canada's A.I. future despite challenges ahead. The conversation also touches on media dynamics, the need for regulatory clarity, and the evolving responsibilities of A.I. leadership in the country.