Opening remarks
“As my term as Chair of IVADO’s Board of Directors draws to a close, I look back on this past year with immense pride and sincere gratitude – a year marked by significant progress and the realization of bold projects advancing IVADO’s R³AI vision.
The report you hold illustrates IVADO’s path through 2023-2024: a year where collaboration led to strengthened strategic partnerships between the consortium and industry and academic leaders, where boldness enabled the launch of one of Canada’s largest AI research projects – the R³AI Research Groups, and where commitment to excellence manifested in ambitious initiatives focused on impact, ethics, and responsible innovation with tangible, positive effects on society.
Thanks to the continued support of its many partners – whether industrial, academic, or governmental – IVADO has maintained its central role in Canada’s artificial intelligence ecosystem. The consortium’s strategic reach now extends from Asia to the Americas, through Africa, Europe, and notably France, as IVADO continues to strengthen its ties for the development of AI research and training.
It’s also worth highlighting IVADO’s expanding fields of research and innovation: by addressing crucial issues such as healthcare, supply chain resilience, environment, new materials and molecules development, AI safety and governance – alongside machine learning and natural language processing (NLP) – IVADO reminds us that AI’s impact extends beyond technology. IVADO’s commitment to adopting and developing robust, reasoning, and responsible artificial intelligence for the benefit of society as a whole incorporates ethical, diversity, and inclusion dimensions while recognizing the essential contribution of Indigenous knowledge.
As you browse through this report, you’ll discover an array of the year’s remarkable achievements, driven by the talent, vision, and energy of a community that believes in artificial intelligence’s transformative impact. These successes wouldn’t be possible without the unwavering support of the Université de Montréal and IVADO’s four renowned university partners – Polytechnique Montréal, HEC Montréal, Université Laval, and McGill University – our 14 academic members, and our 160 industrial and governmental partners.
As I pass the torch, I am confident that IVADO will continue to harness the combined strengths of academia, industry, and society to shape an even more promising future, where artificial intelligence serves as a catalyst for addressing the most pressing challenges of our time for the common good.
I want to extend my warmest thanks to everyone I’ve had the privilege of working with at IVADO: thank you for your trust, your ideas, and your boldness. Together, we have not only accomplished great things but have built solid foundations for an inspiring future.”
Marie-Josée Hébert
Chair of the Board of Directors and Vice-Rector of Research, Discovery, Creation and Innovation at Université de Montréal
In April 2023, we received a mandate from the Apogée program to carry out the R³AI initiative we had proposed, which is undoubtedly the most ambitious AI project in Canada. Conceptualized before the advent of major language models, twenty months later, this plan to change AI paradigms to increase responsible adoption and foster scientific, technological and social innovation has gained a broad consensus. And we’re working hard to make it a reality, aware of the need to draw on all fields of knowledge and involve all sectors of society. We are also aware of the great responsibility we have been entrusted with to provide leadership in these
transformative times, to demonstrate the importance of university contributions in AI and to generate a beneficial impact on a large scale.
If the relevance of the scientific content of the R³AI project resonates to the point of seeing its various elements taken up by other institutes around the world, the IVADO approach, with its broad spectrum of activities and open, interdisciplinary and inclusive approach, continues to serve as a model. I would like to emphasize the original, inspired and daring nature of the programs that have been put in place, whether it be the establishment of the ten clusters following a co-creation exercise – so many research centers tasked with meeting expectations in terms of discovery and innovation – or the introduction of the thematic programs, or our knowledge mobilization and transfer projects. I’m convinced that these initiatives, in which IVADO stands out, will serve the purpose of R³AI remarkably well, and contribute to its sustainability beyond 2030. All this should be a source of collective pride.
IVADO consists of four integrated institutes dedicated to the R³AI project: a research organization of the highest international caliber, an international center of AI scientific activity in Canada, an institute for training and knowledge mobilization, and a hub for technology transfer and social innovation. This report shows how far we’ve come since 2023, and how much has been achieved in 2024 in each of these IVADO departments. The growth in national involvement and international collaborations is also noteworthy. Among notable examples, IVADO’s participation in “Team Canada”, made up of the three federal granting agencies and IVADO, which jointly led a call for bi-national AI projects with the French Agence Nationale de Recherche, the partnership with the Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing at Berkeley in the organization of thematic programs, and the involvement in the Korean flagship AI research center all bear witness to IVADO’s national and international visibility.
All this has been possible thanks to the exceptional mobilization of the entire IVADO community behind the R³AI project. Researchers, staff, academic, organizational and industrial partners, your contributions have made our success possible. We extend our warmest thanks to all of you. Let’s continue to be creative together, keeping our eyes on the essential goal: to open up new avenues and make a big impact.
In closing, I’d like to extend a special thank you to Marie-Josée Hébert, Chair of our Board of Directors and Vice-Rector, Research, Discovery, Creation and Innovation at the Université de Montréal, whose mandate ends this summer. She has played a pivotal role in the success of IVADO, which she has vigorously supported over the years, and which has benefited from her leadership, vision, intelligence and dedication.
Enjoy your reading.
Luc Vinet
Chief Executive Officer
Impact
Recherche
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chercheurs et chercheuses IVADO Impliqués dans notre communauté
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domaines distincts de recherche couverts
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postdoc d’excellence attribués en 2023-2024, dont 5 femmes
Formation
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personnes formées dont près de 70% dans le cadre de formations sur mesure
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formations données entre 2023 et 2024, dont 10 nouvelles formations inédites
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inscriptions pour nos 9 MOOCs ouverts et accessibles gratuitement
Transfert
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Membres industriels actifs en 2023-2024
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Nombre de projets en recherche collaborative démarrés, en cours ou terminés en 2023-2024
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Valeur en espèces des projets en recherche collaborative depuis avril 2023, dont 15,9M$ de financement reçus et 8,4M$ investis par les industries
Talents
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professeur(e)s IVADO depuis 2023
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participant(e)s à nos événements dédiés aux étudiant(e)s
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des étudiant(e) embauché(e) suite à la participation à l’un de nos programme en entrepreneuriat
Research
Research to Shape the Future of AI
IVADO places the advancement of artificial intelligence research at the heart of its priorities, drawing on a uniquely vast interdisciplinary AI research community. This year, our scientific community has made remarkable advances across various fields, from developing AI design guidelines to contributing to biodiversity preservation. Additionally, the community has mobilized to deploy several excellence programs that support IVADO’s ambitious R³AI vision for robust, reasoning, and responsible AI.
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IVADO researchers involved in our community
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Postdocs of excellence awarded in 2023-2024, including 5 women
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Funding received through the 2030 Canadian International Development Scholarships (BCDI 2030)
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Domaines distincts de recherche couverts
Strategic Research Funding Program PRF3
Research teams from IVADO’s PRF3 Strategic Research Funding Program began submitting their research results in December 2024. While these results will soon be shared publicly, many have already made a significant impact both nationally and internationally, through participation in prestigious competitions and collaboration with world-class strategic partners.
AI, Biodiversity and Climate Change
Main Research Group: Étienne Laliberté (Université de Montréal, IRBV), Christopher Pal (Polytechnique Montréal, Mila), David Rolnick (Université McGill, Mila), Oliver Sonnentag (Université de Montréal), Anne Bruneau (Université de Montréal, IRBV)
Climate change is altering plant biodiversity, threatening the resilience and functioning of terrestrial ecosystems. The PRF3 “AI, Biodiversity and Climate Change” team has developed an innovative solution combining AI and drones to map forests and analyze plant biodiversity with great precision. Their research contributed to the Limelight Rainforest team’s victory in the international XPRIZE Rainforest competition in Brazil in the fall of 2024, and led to the creation of the startup Rubisco AI, founded by Étienne Laliberté and Arthur Ouaknine, also supported by IVADO under an entrepreneurial program.
Human-Centered AI
Main research group: Pierre-Majorique Léger (HEC Montréal, Tech3lab), Sylvain Sénécal (HEC Montréal, Tech3lab)
The PRF3 “Human-Centered AI” project team is exploring four areas: the ethics of AI, AI at work, AI in everyday life, and the neuroscientific study of user experience. This approach examines ethical challenges, impact on decision-making, task augmentation, and the personal use of these tools, particularly in health and transportation. Prominent collaborations in 2023 include SAAQ, to integrate AI into road safety, and Alloprof, where an AI solution improves personalized learning by adjusting educational content in real time based on performance. These projects illustrate a comprehensive approach, focused on concrete, beneficial applications of AI.
AI for the Discovery of Materials and Molecules
Main research group: Yoshua Bengio (Université de Montréal, Mila), Michael Tyers (Université de Montréal, IRIC), Mickaël Dollé (Université de Montréal), Lena Simine (McGill University)
The Université de Montréal, in collaboration with Mila, IRIC and McGill, is developing a machine learning framework to accelerate the discovery of innovative drugs and materials. The project aims to design customized molecules while reducing the time and costs associated with traditional methods. Using artificial intelligence, researchers are optimizing the search for antibiotics and materials with environmental applications, contributing to the fight against climate change. Building on this work, the Université de Montréal secured major funding of $21 million in 2024 to develop a rapid response platform for accelerating the discovery of new antibiotics to combat drug-resistant bacteria and prevent potential pandemics.
Integrated Machine Learning and Optimization for Decision-Making Under Uncertainty
Main Research Group: Erick Delage (HEC Montréal, GERAD), Yossiri Adulyasak (HEC Montréal, GERAD), Emma Frejinger (Université de Montréal, CIRRELT)
Supply chains are facing increasing uncertainty, amplified by phenomena such as pandemics or the effects of global warming. The PRF3 project “Integrated Machine Learning and Optimization for Decision Making under Uncertainty” aimed to strengthen their resilience by integrating machine learning and optimization in decision-making. A key outcome concerns emergency evacuation planning, for instance during major forest fire events, with optimization models that take into account road congestion. This work, conducted in collaboration with institutional and local partners, including the authorities of Chibougamau, Sept-Îles and Lebel-sur-Quévillon, SOPFEU and the Canadian Forest Service (CFS – NRCan), relies on real data to validate the developed tools. These advances contribute to more robust and effective strategies in the face of current logistical and climate challenges.
Human Health and Secondary Use of Data
Main research group: Michaël Chassé (Université de Montréal, CRCHUM), Nadia Lahrichi (Polytechnique Montréal, CIRRELT), An Tang (Université de Montréal, CRCHUM)
The team led by Michaël Chassé, Nadia Lahrichi and An Tang addressed the sensitive issue of secondary health data use, where use requires assurance of confidentiality and reliability. An article by Julien Hussin, written as part of this work, on biases in medical databases, provides clinicians with practical knowledge for recognizing and addressing these biases. An associated open-source code enables creating synthetic ECG signals that preserve pathological features. Michaël Chassé is also interested in synthetic data as a solution for accessing data while limiting confidentiality issues. This work also fosters multi-site collaboration, particularly through federated learning, and demonstrates a commitment to ethical and inclusive research.
R³AI Research Regroupements
This fall, IVADO officially launched ten R3AI interdisciplinary Strategic Research Regroupements to advance artificial intelligence in a responsible and transformative manner. These Regroupements, involving 176 co-leaders and researchers from diverse disciplines, are supported by a $30 million budget over seven years and six full-time equivalents. During the launch forum, attended by over 200 participants, the scientific programs were presented, sparking discussions on the impact of the research, the inclusion of underrepresented groups, and the integration of complementary disciplines. This initiative is a unique AI endeavor in Canada.
The search program for the 10 Regroupements is now available: here.
Exploratory Projects
In 2024, IVADO introduced a new competition designed to support researchers working on small to medium-scale exploratory projects that are creative, innovative, and bold—particularly those that are cross-sectoral or interdisciplinary. This initiative encourages the exploration of new ideas aligned with the R3AI vision. Open at all times, this competition aims to help develop projects in the exploration phase.
Large-Scale Power Grids: Transition to Net Zero
The transition to carbon-neutral energy systems is crucial in the fight against climate change. The increasing electrification and variability of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, present challenges that existing tools cannot fully address. Led by Michel Denault, with co-investigators Maryam Daryalal and Pierre-Olivier Pineau (HEC Montréal), the team is exploring two innovative approaches: using reinforcement learning to plan grid expansion while integrating complex variables like wind, sunlight, temperature, and energy demand, and advancing stochastic programming with neural networks. These efforts aim to enable a more sustainable and efficient energy transition.
Leveraging Root Anatomy with AI to Improve Soil Health and Resource Acquisition in a Changing Climate
Plant roots, essential for their growth, remain understudied despite their critical role in climate resilience, mineral acquisition, and CO2 absorption. In Canada, gaining a deeper understanding of root variations could, for instance, lead to the development of soybean varieties better suited to recent climate shifts. Davoud Torkamaneh (Université Laval) and Shangpeng Sun (McGill) are set to transform this field with an AI-driven root classification model, supported by the first global database on root systems. By capturing detailed images to create 3D models, their approach holds the potential for significant breakthroughs in plant research.
Quantification and Accuracy Control in Scientific Machine Learning
The rise of machine learning approaches in the digital sciences is presenting new challenges, necessitating the development of theories and analytical tools to enhance interpretability and ensure competitiveness with traditional methods. Serge Prudhomme (Polytechnique Montréal) and Simone Brugiapaglia (Concordia)’s team aims to create tools that quantify and control the accuracy of deep learning approximations by establishing clear error bounds. These advances will benefit various fields, including aerospace and mechanical engineering simulations, as well as modeling and network science, paving the way for more robust and reliable applications.
FRQ-IVADO Research Chairs for Diversity and Equity in Data Science
Launched in 2019, the FRQ-IVADO Research Chairs for Diversity and Equity in Data Science program aims to support the next generation of young, emerging researchers recognized by their peers as having the potential to become leaders in the field of AI.
Mathematics for Addressing Social Issues
How can we improve equity and efficiency in systems such as school choice or hospital matching? The FRQ-IVADO Chair in EDI, headed by Margarida Carvalho, applies innovative approaches in mathematics and optimization to various fields: education, health and sustainable mobility. A project optimizing school choice by prioritizing siblings is being field-tested in Chile. In healthcare, a method based on GFlowNets improves kidney exchange, and the same methods are used to match pharmacy students to internships. In collaboration with Hydro-Québec, a project identifies the best locations for electric charging stations. With 30 publications, the Chair is tackling concrete challenges.
Data for Road Safety and Smart Transportation
The FRQ-IVADO Chair in Data Science, led by Aurélie Labbe, addresses critical issues like road safety and transportation. Supported by CANSSI, the Chair develops innovative statistical models for transportation data. The researcher analyzes mobile phone use while driving in Montreal using telematics data. With 10 articles published in 2023-2024 and significant grants, including one from CIHR on the effects of psychostimulants on children’s brains, the Chair’s projects are pushing the boundaries of data science, delivering promising breakthroughs.
Towards More Reliable and Transparent Artificial Intelligence Systems
The FRQ-IVADO Chair in Quality Assurance for Machine Learning Software, led by Foutse Khomh, is dedicated to enhancing the reliability and transparency of AI systems. It tackles challenges such as bias detection and the lack of transparency in complex models, while developing techniques to improve testing and evaluation. Key achievements include the analysis of under-specified models and the creation of a threat benchmark with MLCommon. In industry, tools developed for Bombardier optimize aeronautical design, while a project with GitHub Copilot identified flaws in generated code. With 52 publications and $2.3 million in grants, the Chair is advancing the development of safer and fairer AI systems.
New R³AI Research Chairs:
The Fonds de Recherche du Québec (FRQ) and IVADO have partnered to establish a program of research chairs aimed at supporting the next generation of emerging researchers—those recognized by their peers as having the potential to become leaders in artificial intelligence, in alignment with the R³AI initiative. In 2024, IVADO announced the co-creation of its first research chair at a partner institution.
Supporting Organizations to Address Ethical Issues in AI: A HEC-IVADO-Confiance IA Chair in Organizational Ethics and AI Governance
On December 3, 2024, HEC Montréal launched the Chair in Organizational Ethics and AI Governance, in partnership with IVADO, Confiance IA, and the HEC Foundation. Led by Professor Joé Martineau, this Chair, pioneering in its field, is dedicated to helping organizations enhance their ethical capabilities in response to the challenges posed by AI. Its goals include fostering responsible AI governance, addressing ethical dimensions, and developing the skills of organizational stakeholders. The Chair provides both theoretical insights and practical solutions to these critical challenges.
Knowledge Mobilization
Mobilizing Knowledge for the Benefit of Society
In 2023-2024, IVADO set up a new management team dedicated to ambitious projects in knowledge mobilization and social innovation. The aim is to share and popularize knowledge to inform citizens and decision-makers about AI issues, while supporting initiatives to stimulate social innovation and protect democratic vitality.
Highlights:
AI in Higher Education Conference: A Major Event Co-Organized by IVADO and the Ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur
In May 2023, under the initiative of IVADO and the ministère de l’Enseignement supérieur, 1,200 participants gathered for the Conference on AI in Higher Education to explore the challenges of integrating digital technology into university education amidst the rapid development of generative AI. This event laid the groundwork for the publication of the Conseil supérieur de l’éducation’s report in April 2024.
Addressing the Significant Challenges Posed by the Use of AI for Political and Electoral Purposes
With the upcoming elections in Canada and Quebec in 2026, IVADO is committed to addressing the challenges posed by the use of AI for political and electoral purposes. In the fall of 2024, IVADO partnered with CEIMIA to raise awareness and equip public organizations and civil society in this area. This collaboration resulted in the publication of the report AI and Democracy. In partnership with the University of Ottawa, IVADO has also initiated work on policy recommendations for AI governance. A first retreat in Rome in December 2024 focused on exploring the risks, opportunities, and best practices for safeguarding the integrity of elections in the age of AI.
A First Oxford-Quebec-France workshop, “Shaping the Future of AI and Healthcare,” Co-Organized by IVADO
From September 8 to 10, 2024, the first Oxford-Québec-France workshop, “Shaping the Future of AI,” took place at the Maison française d’Oxford and Reuben College, University of Oxford. Co-organized by Catherine Régis (IVADO), the Maison française d’Oxford, the French Embassy in the UK, the Délégation du Québec à Londres, and Reuben College, this event examined, through comparative and interdisciplinary lenses, the societal opportunities and challenges associated with AI development, with a particular focus on its innovative applications in healthcare.
Conference on Responsible AI in Cities: IVADO’s participation in the UN Science Summit
In the fall of 2024, IVADO hosted a virtual roundtable titled Responsible Artificial Intelligence in an Urban Context as part of the United Nations General Assembly Science Summit. This event brought together experts from four continents (Quebec, Belgium, Morocco, Ecuador) to discuss AI initiatives aimed at fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable cities, in alignment with SDG 11. Catherine Régis presented the IA Urbaine (Urban AI) project project in Montreal, which explores ethical and inclusive solutions to critical issues such as access to housing and bridging the digital divide.
Artist Residency in Responsible AI with the UdeM Gallery: Reflecting on the Production of Responsible, Feminist, and Queer Knowledge Through the Lens of Visual Arts
IVADO and the Galerie de l’Université de Montréal, in collaboration with Christelle Proulx, launched a residency project and exhibition on responsible AI in the fall of 2024. Over the course of one year, four artists will engage in research-creation, with their works to be showcased in 2025-2026. The artists will collaborate with IVADO researchers to explore themes such as data, recognition, and AI’s societal impact, while raising public awareness about AI’s societal issues through works based on responsible, inclusive, and feminist knowledge. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the ethical and social dimensions of AI, using creative practices to generate dialogue on these critical topics.
Outreach
Strengthening Local and Global Collaborations for AI Innovation and Research
The year 2024 saw the strengthening of IVADO’s central position in the global AI ecosystem, thanks to strategic partnerships with key partners in Canada, Korea, France, and the United States.
Highlights
First Joint Workshop IVADO-Perimeter Institute-Courtois Institute
In November 2023, a joint IVADO-Perimeter Institute-Institut Courtois workshop brought together experts from diverse backgrounds to explore the interfaces between artificial intelligence, physics and mathematics. This innovative event built bridges between disciplines and laid the foundations for new avenues of interdisciplinary research.
IVADO and CIFAR Join Forces to Develop AI in the Healthcare Sector
IVADO and CIFAR have joined forces to develop an AI project for the healthcare sector, with a particular focus on medical imaging. The inaugural meeting of the CIFAR-IVADO Solutions Network laid the foundations for groundbreaking applications in this sector.
Quebec’s Quantum Algorithm Research Community Joins Forces with the Creation of the Alliance en Algorithmie Quantique (AAQ)
IVADO played a key role in the creation of the Alliance en algorithmie quantique, AAQ, bringing together the strengths of Institut Quantique of Université de Sherbrooke, ÉTS and other major players. This initiative aims to propel quantum research and its applications, by fostering unprecedented collaboration in Quebec.
IVADO and the Simons Institute Announce a Strategic Partnership for the Joint Organization of a Thematic Program on “Large Language Models and Transformers”
IVADO and the Simons Institute have formed a strategic partnership to develop several ambitious thematic programs on large language models and transformers in the coming years. This initiative provides a unique opportunity for researchers to explore groundbreaking advancements in these technologies. A first thematic program was announced in the fall, which will bring together leading researchers in Berkeley to explore the theme of large language models.
Delegation Visits Seoul to Strengthen Partnerships with South Korea
From May 1 to 3, 2024, a delegation led by IVADO and supported by the Quebec Office in Seoul participated in the renowned AI Expo Korea. Alongside this key event in the global AI ecosystem, IVADO engaged in several important meetings and signed agreements with major academic and entrepreneurial leaders in Seoul, including the prestigious Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology (KAIST) and its KAIST AI School. New collaborations were also established between IVADO and the Artificial Intelligence Institute (AIIS) at Seoul National University, the Korea AI Association, and the Seoul AI Hub, a central hub for AI innovation in South Korea’s capital. These exchanges open the door to collaborative projects in strategic areas such as supply chain management, operations research, transportation, and optimization.
Key Partner in Canada-France Bilateral AI Collaboration
As part of the strengthening of its relations with France, IVADO has supported a joint Canada-France call for research proposals on artificial intelligence (AI) initially launched by the French Agence nationale de la recherche (ANR), in collaboration with three Canadian federal research funding agencies: the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR). For Canadian teams, IVADO could provide additional funding to support research activities in line with its R³AI vision. This collaboration is a first step towards greater synergy with France and the AI projects being developed there, both in research and other domains.
Transfer
IVADO, a Catalyst for Innovation
IVADO’s commitment to collaborative innovation continues to strengthen the bridges between academic research and Quebec organizations, with measurable impacts and concrete social and economic spin-offs in a variety of sectors. In 2023-2024, more than 200 collaborative research projects have been launched, an average of 1 project every two days, in collaboration with our industrial members and our student and research community.
Key Figures
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Collaborative research projects in 2023-2024, i.e. 1 project every 2 working days
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Researchers involved from 26 academic institutions
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Number of organizations involved in collaborative research projects
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Value of collaborative research projects conducted since April 2023, including $15.9M in funding received and $8.4M invested by industries.
Enriching Quebec's Innovation Ecosystem
IVADO is dedicated to further strengthening its mission of supporting Quebec businesses, a mission it has been successfully advancing. By offering more comprehensive support for the integration of collaborative research projects, IVADO drives product development, boosts productivity, and enhances social conditions by transferring and applying academic research breakthroughs within the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Quebec Government Grants $8M to IVADO to Strengthen Quebec’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Ecosystem
On May 13, 2024, the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie (MEIE) announced an investment of $8 million until 2026 for IVADO, to accelerate the adoption of AI in Quebec. Strengthening ties between industry and academia, this renewed partnership will enable the deployment of two new collaborative research programs: PARTENAR-IA, in collaboration with the Regroupement sectoriels de recherche industrielle (RSRI), and DemultiplIA.
Launch of DémultiplIA: A New Program to Drive AI SMEs and Startups in Quebec with IVADO
In the fall of 2024, IVADO launched the first call for applications for DémultiplIA, a unique program aimed at supporting 15 growing SMEs and startups each year that are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into the core of their operations. Supported by the Ministère de l’Économie, de l’Innovation et de l’Énergie du Québec and in collaboration with HEC Montréal and Centech, this large-scale initiative will provide selected companies with the resources and guidance needed to incorporate research and development (R&D) into their strategic vision, while strengthening their ability to position themselves as leaders in their industries. The first cohort will begin in January 2025.
IVADO and the RSRI Join Forces, Under the Mandate of the MEIE, to Drive AI Innovation in Quebec
In 2024, IVADO partnered with Quebec’s Regroupements sectoriels de recherche industrielle (RSRI) — including CQDM, CQRDA, CRIAQ, CRIBIQ, CRITM, InnovÉÉ, MEDTEQ+, PRIMA Québec, and PROMPT — to strengthen the MEIE’s PARTENAR-IA program. The goal of this initiative is to help Quebec businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence to enhance their competitiveness and gain a strategic edge in the global market. Through this collaboration, IVADO now acts as a catalyst between the RSRI and eligible businesses in the PARTENAR-IA program, offering them access to IVADO’s unique expertise developed through the R3AI project.
Impact Stories:
Learn how our projects stimulate innovation and create value for our partner companies and organizations.
Maket: Quebec’s Generative AI Redefining Spatial Planning
Since 2022, IVADO has been working with Maket, a Quebec-based company that aims to redefine the architectural planning experience by harnessing the power of generative AI. After supporting them with financing, project set-up and talent recruitment, in spring 2024 IVADO invited the Quebec-based startup on a major mission to South Korea and Japan, which played a major part in Maket’s rise on the international scene. In Korea, the number of users has jumped by 10%, while discussions are in progress with Japan. Other countries have already expressed interest in exploring similar projects, confirming the exportability of this 100% Québécois generative AI technology. “The credibility of IVADO, with its renowned researchers, was a determining factor. Being part of such a prestigious delegation gave us a level of exposure we could never have achieved on our own”, Stéphane Turbide, co-founder and COO, Maket.
Axel: AI and Robotics for the Well-being of Seniors
The Sunny Foundation, dedicated to promoting intergenerational connections, collaborated with IVADO to develop Axel, a social robot designed to combat isolation among seniors. This interdisciplinary project brought together the expertise of Jian-Yun Nie (UdeM) in AI, François Michaud (Université de Sherbrooke) in robotics, and Mélanie Levasseur (Université de Sherbrooke) in health. Funded with $150k from the Université de Montréal, Axel is equipped with an AI-driven conversational agent that engages seniors in meaningful dialogue to enhance their well-being. With IVADO’s support in coordinating the project, recruiting teams, and overseeing its execution, Axel has emerged as a model of social and technological innovation, aligned with the United Nations’ sustainable development goals.
Alloprof: Enhancing Academic Success with Artificial Intelligence
Alloprof pursues its mission to prevent school dropout and increase motivation and success in school by offering free online tutoring services. Alloprof is currently collaborating with UdeM and IVADO to better understand the ethical issues and define a robust framework for the use of generative AI. Via IVADO, the organization has also collaborated with Polytechnique’s Comité de Consultation en Gestion (CCGP) and UdeM’s Clinique juridique to optimize the adoption of AI in its organization, and on the definition of a responsible process for protecting personal data.
Training
From Individual Pathways to a Sectorial Vision of Education
Education is key to developing skills and nurturing talent, and IVADO’s vision extends beyond individual learning paths. In 2024, IVADO enabled several training initiatives in partnership with professional associations, adopting a multidisciplinary approach. These projects have positioned education as a strategic tool to advance IVADO’s mission: fostering sustainable innovation and expanding the collective, positive impact of AI.
Key Figures
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Trained individuals, nearly 84% of whom participated in customized training programs.
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Training sessions held between 2023 and 2024, including 10 new, exclusive programs.
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Registrations for our 9 MOOCs, open and available for free.
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Overall satisfaction rate for training programs in 2023-2024, reflecting a 3% increase since 2021.
Highlights
The Conseil de l’innovation du Québec and IVADO Partner to Create an AI Training Program
The Conseil de l’innovation du Québec and IVADO announced at the ALL IN 2024 event their partnership to create an artificial intelligence (AI) training module specifically designed for innovation advisors in Quebec. This exclusive training will enable certified professionals to stay at the forefront of supporting Quebec businesses.
Enhanced Collaboration with Professional Orders
In 2024, IVADO strengthened its ties with professional orders to promote sustainable AI innovation. IVADO collaborated with the Barreau du Québec, the Ordre des agronomes du Québec (OAQ), the Ordre des conseillers en ressources humaines agréés du Québec, and the Conseil interprofessionnel du Québec (CIQ) to create tailored training programs that meet the specific needs of each field. These multidisciplinary initiatives underscore IVADO’s commitment to driving skill development and amplifying collective impact.
Multidisciplinary AI Training Programs
IVADO views training as a key lever for AI adoption. Its innovative, accessible, multidisciplinary, and inclusive catalog covers foundational AI concepts (machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing), practical real-world applications (model management and deployment, operations research), and awareness of the challenges surrounding AI (legal, ethical, and environmental issues).
“I reflect on the enriching journey of the past four months that we embarked on through the MLOps enrichment program at IVADO, recently completed. Every Tuesday, a remarkable group of individuals gathered, united by a shared thirst for knowledge, which made each session an unforgettable experience. […] Together, we tackled challenges and deepened our understanding of deploying MLOps in real-world machine learning (ML) pipelines.”
Zahra Golpayegani, Machine Learning Engineer at Zetana Systems
The Success of Our Customized Training Programs
In the field of AI, each organization faces its own unique challenges. IVADO’s customized training program is a turnkey service that supports managers and operational teams (finance, marketing, HR, IT, etc.) in fostering AI adoption. It allows for the personalization of content and examples based on objectives, participant profiles, or organizational challenges, providing an approach tailored to the specific needs of each company.
“The training, customized to the specific needs of our organization, demonstrated both rigor and an in-depth understanding of the strategic and ethical issues involved in integrating AI into governance practices.
The IVADO team successfully combined technical expertise with an accessible teaching approach, enabling our board members to better grasp the opportunities, risks, and concrete implications of AI in our decision-making processes.”
Dorothée Chiasson, Governance Consultant, Alliance de l’industrie touristique du Québec
“Explaining complex concepts and adapting them to the audience is an art that our trainer, Jean-François Connelly, masters exceptionally well. The examples and workshops also helped us grasp and apply the theoretical aspects presented throughout the course. I highly recommend this training.”
Steve Gosselin, Scrum Master, Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec
Talents
Transforming Ideas through Emerging Talent
By connecting promising talent to strategic projects, whether academic or entrepreneurial, we strengthen our artificial intelligence ecosystem. These initiatives drive scientific discoveries, accelerate technological innovation, and foster a lasting impact on society and the economy.
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IVADO professors since 2023
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Students hired after participating in one of our entrepreneurship programs
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Participants in our student-focused events
Stimulating the Future of AI Research
Arrival of 21 IVADO Professors in the R³AI Cohort
Since 2016, IVADO has supported the hiring of new professors at the Université de Montréal, McGill University, HEC Montréal, Polytechnique Montréal, and Université Laval. In 2023 and 2024, the IVADO professors program was revitalized with the addition of 21 new professors, selected in collaboration with our academic partners based on the excellence of their profiles and the significant advancements their work can contribute to the field of AI and its applications.
Support for 11 Postdoctoral AI Research Projects
Launched in 2023, the IVADO postdoctoral fellowship program selected 11 projects in 2024, including 2 co-funded with Obvia. These projects will receive financial support to advance research that significantly contributes to the R3AI project. The fellows, from diverse disciplinary backgrounds, will explore AI in fields such as health, agriculture, sociology, political science, and deep learning.
Supporting the Creation of Startups from Doctoral Research: Awarding of 4 Postdoc Entrepreneur Fellowships in 2023-2024
In 2024, IVADO selected four entrepreneurial projects based on doctoral research as part of the Postdoc Entrepreneur program. In addition to 18 months of salary funding, a research budget, and $5,000 fellowships offered by the Arbour Foundation (launched in 2024) to support intern hiring, the awardees will have a unique opportunity to develop a marketable prototype derived from their doctoral research. They will also gain exclusive access to the IVADO network, providing a solid foundation to launch their ventures.
Flow: Diagnostic Assessment in Mental Health Powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI
Flow is developing an AI-powered SaaS platform for diagnostic assessment in mental health. Based on neuropsychological research, it is the first conversational assistant powered by cutting-edge algorithms connected to scientific literature in mental health and the patient’s electronic medical record, designed to assist professionals in their clinical decision-making. The project is being developed in the lab of Professor Arnaud Saj at the University of Montreal.
Rubisco AI: Monitoring Plantations Using Drone Imaging Combined with AI
Rubisco AI is developing breakthrough technology that combines drone imaging with artificial intelligence to monitor plantations hundreds of times faster and more accurately than manual methods. This technology can detect, segment, identify species, and estimate the carbon stored by each tree, ensuring large-scale monitoring, transparency to eliminate fraud, and demonstrating the positive impact of forest restoration.
An Intelligent System for Early Detection of Lung Cancer
Around half of lung cancer cases, one of the most diagnosed and deadliest cancers, are detected too late, significantly reducing the chances of recovery. To address this, BrainInnov is developing an intelligent early detection system for lung cancer that could increase the five-year survival rate for patients by over 63%.
Symphonaie: Harnessing AI for Neuroplasticity and Rehabilitation
SymphonAIe develops non-invasive neuroprostheses using multiple AI architectures to deliver “symphonic” electrical stimulation capable of influencing neuroplasticity. The technology aims to provide optimal neuromodulation, enabling unprecedented control of arbitrary biomimetic waves, which significantly enhances learning and rehabilitation for both healthy individuals and neurological patients.
A Grant for Canadian International Development Fellowships
On November 26, 2024, IVADO received $500,000 in funding over four years through the Canadian International Development Fellowships 2030 program. This support will facilitate research stays for African and Haitian students, enhancing training and research initiatives in artificial intelligence in partnership with AIMS and ISTEAH.
Digital Futures: The Future of Research is Being Shaped in University Classrooms
With a record attendance of over 230 participants, including 36 student speakers, the 2024 edition of Digital Futures provided an exceptional platform for emerging talent in AI research. The event featured notable contributions from Luc Sirois and Anne Nguyen (Conseil de l’innovation du Québec) and attracted numerous industry members, who return year after year to discover the latest innovations in the future of academic research.
Talent for Collaborative Innovation
IVADO continues to support the next generation of AI engineers by providing students with internships, hands-on experience and collaborative opportunities that not only solidify their skills, but also offer them attractive professional opportunities at the start of their careers.
20,000 hours of collaboration on integration projects
Nearly 100 graduating students in software and computer engineering at Polytechnique have developed 18 applied projects with IVADO members as part of integrative projects. This colossal collaboration, representing more than 20,000 hours of work, is generating significant spin-offs for the organizations involved, while providing an enriching first experience of technical consulting for the students of teaching master Lévis Thériault.
2024 Scientist in Action
This program, which aims to bring together young talent and startups by coordinating and co-financing credited internships, has a strong impact on host companies, as well as on people at the start of their careers. One of the program’s successes was its collaboration with Azimut Médical, which, thanks to the initiative, recruited an intern for a project involving intelligent clothing to prevent the risk of falls among the elderly.
“My internship at Azimut Medical as part of IVADO’s Scientist in Action program was a real springboard for my career. I had the opportunity to work on concrete projects in artificial intelligence, with a great deal of autonomy and responsibility right from the start. What was supposed to be an internship lasting a few months turned into an exciting professional adventure.”
– Arnaud Dalbec-Constant
2024 Scientist in Residence
The Scientist in Residence program encourages the transfer of cutting-edge expertise to startups, by pairing PhD students with the R&D teams of selected companies. In 2024, 7 of the 10 participating startups subsequently recruited these PhD students, illustrating the program’s major impact on increasing skills within Quebec companies.
First Edition of ADOR-IA: A Step Towards Responsible, Collaborative AI
The ADOR-IA initiative, co-organized by IVADO, Obvia, and SEMLA, is an ideathon designed to promote the responsible development and deployment of AI. In its first edition, 63 participants came together over three days to tackle real-world challenges presented by industry leaders such as Ericsson, Beneva, Videns Analytics, Humanitas/VMWare by Broadcom, and Innovention. The event focused on critical themes including ethics, algorithmic bias, and sustainability. With 23 hours of hands-on activities, including training and mentorship, ADOR-IA fostered multidisciplinary collaboration, driving innovative and responsible AI solutions.
Une subvention pour des bourses canadiennes de développement international
Le 26 novembre 2024, IVADO a obtenu un financement de 500 000 $ sur quatre ans dans le cadre des Bourses canadiennes de développement international 2030. Ce soutien permettra d’accueillir des étudiantes et étudiants africains et haïtiens pour des séjours de recherche, renforçant ainsi les initiatives de formation et de recherche en intelligence artificielle en collaboration avec l’AIMS et l’ISTEAH.
13th IVADO-CRM Industrial Problem-Solving Workshop
In 2023-2024, IVADO strengthened its commitment to meshing the academic and industrial worlds with the 13th edition of the Industrial Problem Solving Workshop (IPSW), co-organized with the Centre de recherche mathématique (CRM).This flagship event is designed to catalyze collaboration between academic researchers and industry professionals, using artificial intelligence (AI) and data science to solve real-world business challenges. ARPI brought together participants from a wide range of backgrounds to work on problems submitted by partner companies in several economic sectors, including aviation, transport, finance, insurance, telecoms, energy and media.
IVADO Internship and Job Fair: A Growing Hub of Talent and Opportunities Increasingly Frequented by Companies and Young Talent
The IVADO Internship and Job Fair has become a must for talent in data science and artificial intelligence. With a record of more than 1,200 students in the fall of 2024, and the increased presence of renowned companies, the event increases career opportunities for visitors and has encouraged our members to recruit numerous talents.
EDI and Indigenous Engagement
In 2023-2024, IVADO strengthened its EDI actions and developed an engagement strategy with First Peoples, based on collaborative approaches. Initiatives in training, knowledge mobilization and support for dedicated organizations have been put in place.
Developing our teams’ understanding of aboriginal issues
To better understand the realities of Indigenous peoples in Canada, the IVADO team took part in a training course created by the Ashukan Institute. This initiative was designed to raise awareness and educate management and staff about the social issues and specific challenges facing Indigenous communities, both in academic research and in their daily lives. Topics covered include the history of Indigenous peoples, their cultural and linguistic perspectives, as well as the systemic barriers they face, including systemic racism, and reconciliation. By strengthening their understanding, IVADO has better equipped its teams to support its initiatives and promote knowledge mobilization in an inclusive manner. This training is now an integral part of the employee induction process, enabling employees to acquire the basic knowledge they need to participate in Indigenous engagement projects in a sensitive and informed way.
Training designed to promote access to technology education and AI knowledge for underrepresented groups
Developing AI-based educational content to prevent young people from dropping out of school
IVADO recently began collaborating with Cybercap and Fusion Jeunesse on projects designed to help young people stay in school and integrate into society through digital means. In partnership with IVADO, programs like Relève numérique and Programme 16+ are enriched with artificial intelligence content. This collaboration promotes digital education and inclusion, while meeting the growing needs of the AI market, offering young people professional opportunities and better preparation for future challenges.
IVADO and Technovation Partner to Strengthen AI Training for Young Girls
IVADO has joined forces with Technovation Montréal to give girls aged 8 to 18 greater access to artificial intelligence (AI) through the Code avec moi – AI initiative. Through tailored training and educational support, this partnership aims to empower groups under-represented in technology, while stimulating their creativity and interest in innovative AI applications, from healthcare to video games.
Supporting Gender Diversity in Tech: Collaboration with QueerTech
IVADO collaborated on a project led by NPO QueerTech to develop a toolkit and offer a series of workshops (e.g. on algorithmic biases and inclusive AI) designed for industry professionals interested in creating a more inclusive Canadian technology ecosystem for 2ELGBTQIA+ communities.
Contributing to digital accessibility through collaborative research projects
Almost 22% of Canadians live with a disability that limits their access to digital content. A research team led by Thomas Hurtut (Polytechnique Montréal) worked in partnership with Radio-Canada and Le Devoir to improve the accessibility of journalistic content. With the support of IVADO, which helped set up this collaborative approach, they were able to develop technologies to make online article graphics more accessible to blind and visually impaired people.
Building the digital future with young Aboriginal leaders
In 2023-2024, IVADO launched several co-creation and mobilization projects to build and debate the future of AI in their communities. In particular, IVADO supported the Quebec Aboriginal Science and Engineering Association (AQASI) for the Expo-Sciences Autochtone. A collaboration with Printemps numérique also saw the launch of the Mamo-Mamu initiative, a project co-created with young Aboriginal leaders to explore technologies and artificial intelligence to envision a digital future beneficial to Aboriginal communities. Presented at MTL connects in October 2024, this course of activities seeks to bridge the digital divide and offer new professional opportunities while preserving Aboriginal traditions.
Strengthening the next generation of artificial intelligence experts through international collaboration
Advancing AI research in Africa and Canada: collaboration with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS)
In 2024, IVADO continued its collaboration with the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS) by welcoming a cohort of seven new talents, with the aim of training the next generation and advancing artificial intelligence research in Africa and Canada to meet global challenges. Between 2019 and 2024, the IVADO-AIMS program has enabled 24 AIMS master’s students to receive a scholarship to do a research internship in Canada under the supervision of professors from the Université de Montréal, HEC Montréal and Polytechnique. Students have the opportunity to develop their creativity and sense of innovation by adapting their research carried out in Quebec to the realities of society in Africa. Research projects cover a wide range of themes, including climate change, finance and health.
Supporting Haiti’s next generation of artificial intelligence experts: collaboration with the Institut des sciences, des technologies et des études avancées d’Haïti (ISTEAH)
IVADO offered scholarships to four new talents in collaboration with ISTEAH, a university institution of excellence dedicated to training high-caliber scientists and innovators in Haiti. These scholarships will have enabled them to spend supervised research periods at the Université de Montréal, Polytechnique Montréal and HEC Montréal.
