Tech Mahindra invests $100M for Centre of Excellence in AI, blockchain

India’s Tech Mahindra will invest $100 million over the next five years to create a new Centre of Excellence (COE) in Canada for major emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and Blockchain. The Indian technology powerhouse made the announcement during Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau's visit to India in February. Tech Mahindra said the COE, to be based in Toronto, will facilitate access to cutting-edge technology for Canadians and Indians. It is also expected to create a pool of niche talent and generate high value-added employment in next-gen technology sectors. These results will be achieved through strong linkages and close cooperation by the envisioned COE with leading academic institutes, innovators and accelerators in the startup ecosystem, like the Vector Institute in Toronto.