André Loranger (left) and Chantal Guay (right) sitting at a table in front of a window, smiling and signing documents. Behind them are a branded banner for Statistics Canada and the Standards Council of Canada

Standards Council of Canada and Statistics Canada launch AI and Data Governance Standardization Hub

The Standards Council of Canada (SCC), in collaboration with Statistics Canada, is proud to announce the launch of the AI and Data Governance (AIDG) Standardization Hub. This online platform will serve as a one-stop shop for standardization education and exploration, aimed at enhancing data governance and ensuring the safe, ethical and effective use of artificial intelligence (AI).

This project was supported and inspired by BSI, the UK National Standards Body, who have also developed an AI Standards Hub as part of the UK National AI Strategy. SCC is leading this project as part of our work through the AI and data governance program, which is funded by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). We are working on multiple fronts to advance and promote standardization as a tool to help achieve Canada’s goals with regards to safe AI and trustworthy data. 

Artificial intelligence (AI) is moving at breakneck speed, and standards and conformity assessment will play a crucial role in its safe use. Closely linked to the safe and effective use of AI is the governance of data to ensure accuracy and security.

Standards build public trust in products and services, open access to markets and give Canadian companies a competitive edge. They are powerful tools that can help address societal challenges and emerging issues, ranging from climate change to data privacy and cybersecurity.

The AIDG Standardization Hub will support users, particularly micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), in navigating the world of standardization. By promoting the use of standards for interoperability and harmonization, the Hub will address technical barriers to trade and support Canadian businesses in entering international markets. The Hub offers a publicly available database of relevant standards for AI start-ups, along with learning opportunities on how to access relevant standards, become certified and participate in international standardization efforts.

While this launch marks a significant milestone, there is more work to do. We will continue to update the Hub, ensuring it remains a valuable resource for all interested parties.

Explore the AI and Data Governance Standardization Hub.

“Micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) form the backbone of Canada’s economy. We want to empower them to use standards and conformity assessment to break down trade barriers and expand their businesses,” said Chantal Guay, CEO of SCC. “We’re thrilled to introduce the AIDG Standardization Hub, a dedicated resource for standardization in artificial intelligence and data governance. It is designed to guide MSMEs and other interested parties such as regulators and AI developers to harness these tools effectively.”

"The successful launch of the AIDG Standardization Hub is a demonstration of the strong partnership between Statistics Canada and the Standards Council of Canada,” said André Loranger, Canada’s Chief Statistician. “Through our expertise in statistical standards, Statistics Canada is a proud contributor to the success of this project.”