Mila

Background of the organization

Mila is a world-leading, non-profit artificial intelligence research hub that evolved from a university lab founded in the early 1990s. In 2022, it partnered with Indspire to co-develop the Indigenous Pathfinders Program for First Nations, Inuit and Métis talent. The all-Indigenous Pathfinders team is guided by Indigenous governance and maintains MOUs with leading organizations, including Indigenous Tech Circle and the First Nations Technology Council.

Project description

Funding will support Mila’s Indigenous Pathfinders Program, providing 22 Indigenous professionals with an immersive six‑week AI training experience. Support will help cover travel, lodging, meals and stipends, enabling participants to fully focus on advanced AI skill‑building, mentorship and community‑driven project development. The program strengthens Indigenous leadership in AI and expands early participation in a rapidly growing field by removing financial barriers to full engagement.