On July 16 and 17, Mila co-hosted the second edition of the Indigenous AI Gathering with Abundant Intelligences. Over two days, more than 45 speakers from around the world came together to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, Indigenous knowledge systems, and community-centred innovation. The event welcomed over 230 participants in person, while over 600 more joined via livestream.
The gathering opened with an address from Elder Deborah Delisle, setting the tone for two days of dialogue, learning, and exchange. Remarks from Mila CEO Valérie Pisano and Minister Evan Solomon followed, highlighting the importance of creating a space for conversations on Indigenous-led AI and advancing AI in ways that reflect Indigenous priorities and ways of knowing.
Throughout the event, Indigenous innovators and practitioners, alongside allies, shared perspectives on the future of AI, grounded in Indigenous ethics, values, and experiences. The program featured panels, fireside chats, and spotlight sessions exploring a broad range of AI-related topics affecting Indigenous communities. The gathering also provided an opportunity to discover innovative Indigenous-led AI initiatives and connect with the people driving them forward.
Culture was woven throughout the event experience. A dedicated cultural space invited participants to engage in Indigenous cultural activities, while drumming performances and vocal traditions, including throat singing, celebrated the richness and diversity of Indigenous cultures.
Across the two days, participants returned to three central themes:
- The impact of AI on how we relate to each other, our lands, and future generations.
- The importance of data sovereignty, including the need for Indigenous-owned infrastructure.
- The responsibility to protect and revitalize Indigenous cultures and languages in the age of AI, while exploring AI’s potential role in supporting these efforts.
Indigenous Pathfinders in AI: Pitch Day
The gathering also brought the 2026 Indigenous Pathfinders in AI program to a close, marking the culmination of a seven-week journey focused on developing AI projects designed to benefit Indigenous communities. Cohort members took the stage to showcase their final projects, created by and for Indigenous peoples.
This year, the jury recognized two exceptional projects, naming both teams as winners:
LandLens
Participants: Mishra Cameron, Jacob Umble and Ruth Anna Ritchotte
An innovative AI solution developed to support Indigenous nations in assessing proposed land developments by making existing data on the cumulative impacts of projects over decades more accessible. The solution accelerates analysis while ensuring communities remain at the centre of decision-making.
SAI Cheese for Health
Participants: Leslie Labrecque, Morgan Walsh, Joseph Foote and Deborah Baker
An AI-powered oral health platform created to improve preventive care and generate meaningful health data that benefits Indigenous communities. The solution provides personalized oral health guidance, resources and real-time support through an AI assistant.
The Indigenous AI Gathering 2026 concluded after two days of meaningful discussions, inspiring keynotes, Pathfinder project pitches, and hands-on activities. Mila extends its gratitude to every speaker, Elder, organizer, and participant who contributed to the gathering, as well as to Abundant Intelligences for its valued partnership.
