PwC published the Trust in AI Report, which explores how effectively organizations are adopting artificial intelligence in Canada. The report notes that a significant “readiness gap” is emerging between organizations’ strategic ambitions and their operational governance as they move aggressively to adopt AI. According to the study, over two-thirds (72%) of Canadian organizations recognize responsible AI as a top priority, despite the fact that 36% still do not have a dedicated governance function to manage the associated risks.

The study found that strategic hurdles persist for Canadian organizations, with nearly two-thirds (65%) of leaders citing unclear ownership, difficulty inventorying existing AI systems, and fears that responsible AI will slow innovation. PwC recommends strategic actions for Canadian leaders to address these hurdles:

• Elevate responsible AI to the C-suite and board: Ensure governance structures match the strategic importance of AI, with clear, cross-functional accountability.
• Know what AI you have: You can’t govern what you can’t see. Conduct a comprehensive inventory of all AI systems to understand their purpose, owners, and data sources.
• Move beyond “partially implemented”: Set clear timelines to complete foundational capabilities like risk tiering, model validation, and continuous testing.
• Close the skills gap now: Invest in upskilling existing risk, compliance, privacy, security and data governance teams who already understand governance frameworks.

For further information about the study and to download the report, click here.