Many Canadian business owners want to use generative AI to boost productivity. But they often don’t know where to begin or how to learn safely. The ICTC Generative AI for Business Leaders program offers free, federally supported training and an AI readiness assessment made for Canadian decision-makers. This program is now open to businesses across Canada, no matter the size or industry.
Generative AI for Business Leaders – ICTC is a federal training program run by the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC). It helps Canadian businesses see how generative AI can fit into their work and shows them how to adopt it in a responsible way.
Instead of giving out money, this program removes a big barrier to AI adoption by offering no-cost training and assessment tools. These tools are designed for business leaders, not just technical staff.
Participants get:
AI readiness assessment
A set of questions that checks your current use of digital tools and AI. You get a personalized report with recommended next steps.
Self-directed online courses
Free generative AI training focused on business use cases, opportunities, and risks. You can finish these courses at your own pace.
Online learning community
Access to a network of other business leaders who are also learning about AI. You can share resources and keep learning together.
This program is available to businesses in all Canadian provinces and territories.
Eligibility is broad to help more Canadian businesses get involved.
You can apply if:
There is no minimum revenue required. Startups and small businesses are welcome.
Getting started is simple. You do not need to compete for a spot.
Go to the ICTC program page
The program is on ICTC’s eTalent Canada platform.
Fill out the AI readiness assessment
Answer questions about your business, your data, your tools, and your goals. This shapes your personalized report.
Read your tailored AI report
The report shows your AI maturity and gives practical tips for adoption.
Start the self-directed courses
Pick the AI modules that matter most for your role and your business.
If you want to find other digital or AI support programs, GrantHub’s eligibility matcher helps you filter options by province and business need in seconds.
Many Canadian businesses struggle with AI because they try new tools before knowing if they are ready. ICTC made this program to help leaders avoid that mistake.
This training works well with other supports, such as digital adoption or technology programs. Some businesses use ICTC’s training to prepare before applying for technology grants or advisory programs.
See also:
Expecting cash grants
This program does not give out money. The value comes from learning and assessment, not funding.
Thinking it’s only for tech companies
All industries can join, including retail, manufacturing, professional services, and nonprofits.
Skipping the readiness assessment
The assessment is important. Without it, you miss out on custom advice that makes the training useful.
Waiting until AI is urgent
Some businesses wait too long to learn about AI. This program is for early learning, so you can avoid costly mistakes.
Q: Is the ICTC Generative AI for Business Leaders program really free?
Yes. The AI readiness assessment and all online courses are free for eligible Canadian businesses.
Q: Does this program offer funding or grants?
No. It does not provide money. Instead, it gives training, assessments, and resources to help you use AI.
Q: How long do the courses take to complete?
The courses are self-paced. You can finish them as quickly or slowly as you like.
Q: Can small businesses and startups apply?
Yes. Any size business can join, including startups with few resources.
Q: Is the program open to all industries?
Yes. All industries in Canada can take part, not just technology companies.
For more options, GrantHub tracks hundreds of training, innovation, and AI programs across Canada—see which ones fit your business profile.
If you want to learn about generative AI, the ICTC Generative AI for Business Leaders program is a safe and practical way to start. You will get a clear picture of your readiness, helpful training, and advice tailored to your needs. After this, you can look at other programs that support your growth, using GrantHub to find the right fit for your business.
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