
AI Powered Futures
AI Powered Futures is an applied upskilling program that helps retail professionals build practical AI literacy, stronger professional judgment, and confidence using AI in workplace settings

Talent Playbook
This playbook reflects the guidance and multi-sectoral experience of leaders across the innovation economy who contributed their wisdom, professional and lived experiences, and subject matter expertise to bring this work to life.

Equitable AI Governance Playbook
The playbook will serve as a practical reference to support CILAR and its ecosystem partners in understanding equitable AI governance considerations, assessing AI readiness, and informing future decisions related to the CILAR AI Readiness Scorecard, including potential proof-of-concept development.

We have officially launched registration for our AI Powered Futures Program! Click the link down below to apply today!





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“It's difficult to hold tension in workplaces, but we should have enough compassion to listen to people's experiences and say, 'How can I help?'”
“CILAR has brought valuable expertise in inclusive innovation, applied AI learning, workforce development, and community-centred capacity-building as the Nonprofit AI Skilling CoLab's co-design partner. We believe CILAR is well positioned to advance this work.”
“What stands out in this work is the intentional focus on exposure and confidence-building. By creating spaces where youth can engage with employers, explore different roles, and understand how technology is shaping the workplace, CILAR is helping young people move from curiosity to direction.”
“We believe CILAR's work contributes meaningfully to these goals and to a broader national conversation about inclusive digital infrastructure and workforce participation. We are pleased to support this initiative and look forward to seeing the insights and policy recommendations that emerge from this work.”
“Through this collaboration, we have seen firsthand CILAR's ability to bring together employers, community organizations, and subject matter experts to translate complex challenges into practical, scalable solutions.”
“The ongoing partnership between CILAR and MLSE has proven to be invaluable, particularly in the realm of hiring events and reciprocal mentoring initiatives for newcomer and/or BIPOC executives and youth. The partnerships we have cultivated under the banner of CILAR have become a testament to the transformative power of collaboration.”
“I have had the privilege of working alongside CILAR for the past five years as one of its founding supporters. During that time, I have seen firsthand the organization's ability to deliver meaningful, community-driven programming that connects under-recognized communities to opportunities in technology and innovation. MLSE and CILAR have collaborated on multiple initiatives, and the quality of their work and the impact on participants has been consistently outstanding.”
“Our experience working with CILAR showed us an organization that understands how to turn digital-skills content into practical, community-centred learning. Their team brings strong relationships, thoughtful delivery and a clear commitment to expanding access for young people who may not otherwise have these opportunities.”
“What stood out was CILAR's ability to make the learning approachable and relevant. Students were not simply introduced to new tools; they were encouraged to think critically about how AI works, how it can be used responsibly and how these skills may connect to their futures.”
“As part of the first cohort, this experience represents more than completion; it represents contribution. We were part of shaping what future cohorts will build on.”
“It was a first-of-its-kind pilot cohort designed to equip professionals with practical AI skills to navigate the future of work. Being part of the first graduating class carries special meaning. We were not following an established path; we were helping define it.”
“Still processing this. Grateful to the team at CILAR - for creating a space where innovation meets purpose. Your commitment to educating others about AI bias and advancing inclusive innovation is powerful.”
“I spoke at CILAR's ACCELERATE Leadership Program about being an effective executive champion and shared my DEI leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of courage, intersectionality, and ongoing education for creating inclusive workplaces. I look forward to continuing the conversation and working toward a more inclusive future.”
“Thank you for including me in yesterday's LeadInTech conversations. I learned so much and enjoyed the opportunity to network to share best practices.”
“I wanted to thank your team and Siemens for the wonderful event today, it was very informative and engaging, I enjoyed every minute of it, it was absolutely worth the long drive!!! Thanks!!”
“As a participant, I left the event feeling energized and equipped with new insights and perspectives that will shape my journey in the tech industry. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a meaningful initiative. Thank you again for your unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, inclusion, and leadership in the tech sector.”
“The ACCELERATE Mentorship program allows diversity in leadership and shows how we can embrace that together. And so the first thing is really, I imagine if I can be surrounded by people from different backgrounds, from different industries, I will be able to improve my cultural competence.”
