AI Policy Compass: Navigating the Opportunities and Risks of Artificial Intelligence (AI)

We welcome leaders and policy professionals from all levels of government (federal, provincial and municipal) as well as the private, academic and non-profit fields who are working on the development of AI governance and policy initiatives. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from world renowned AI experts, as well as the chance to connect with peers facing similar experiences and challenges. 

The AI Policy Compass program is designed to address the needs and questions of public policy leaders and is divided into four main themes:

1. Unpacking AI and its Key Applications: Participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of AI, including definitions, key concepts, how it differs from other technologies, and the AI life cycle. They will also explore current and future applications of AI. 
2. AI Opportunities and Risks: Participants will learn from AI experts and case studies, exploring opportunities opened up by AI, as well as some of the risks and harms that can result from it. 
3. Emerging Responses and Solutions: Participants will be introduced to a policy framework that encompasses the major categories of responses to AI. They will learn to apply this framework to their own work and gain experience making AI related decisions they may need to make in their own sectors.   
4. Embracing AI Leadership: Participants will reflect on and discuss the key leadership questions they need to address to navigate the rapidly evolving AI policy landscape. 

Upon completion of the program, participants will:

• Use an analytical framework to aid their AI policy decisions. Beyond the course, participants will continue to use this framework. 
• Apply an understanding of AI technology, applications, implications, and policy responses to their work. 
• Access the latest AI related resources. Beyond the course, participants will actively continue to inform themselves of the latest AI policy developments. 
• Demonstrate confidence to act as AI policy leaders. Beyond the course, participants will be seen as AI policy champions in their organizations. 
• Establish connections with peers facing similar AI governance challenges. Beyond the course, participants will stay active in this alumni network that will be fostered by Mila/PPF. 

The teaching method for this course include case studies, code, and lecturettes from AI experts. Learners will: 

• Engage with relatable case studies demonstrating everyday interactions with technology, including some of the challenges and approaches to address those challenges;  
• Enhance their understanding by exposure to actual code and practical demonstrations of how AI models work. 

• Gain insights and engage with cutting edge insight from experts on different sub-facets of AI. 

This program is suitable for learners of varied backgrounds and no prior computer programming experience is required. Through frameworks, facilitated discussions, exposure to real AI models and use cases, this program has an emphasis on leadership and decision-making in an AI-enabled world.

How long does it take to complete the program?

The AI Policy Compass is delivered in person over the course of two days.

Where does the program take place?

The program is offered in the following locations:

Mila
6650 St-Urbain Street, #200
Montreal, QC
H2S 3H1

Public Policy Forum
Downtown Ottawa, ON

How much does it cost to participate?

AI Policy Compass for Policy Professionals: $2,050 + tax, including all materials.
A 15% discount is offered for PPF and Mila members.

Is this program offered in both official languages?

In August 2024, we offered the AI Policy Compass for the first time in French, at the Mila office in Montreal. The main language of the course will be indicated when you register (English version or French version). Please note that while our facilitators are often bilingual, guest speakers are often unilingual, and certain materials may not be available in both languages. Therefore, we encourage you to register for an edition of the program offered in your preferred language.