May 13, 2026Check against deliveryWelcome to Rideau Hall for this presentation of the Governor General’s Innovation Awards. We also salute Indigenous innovation, especially meaningful today, as one of our recipients is of Métis heritage. I am honoured to recognize your achievements during Canadian Innovation Week. True innovation stems less from creating new products and technologies, and more from embracing new ways of thinking. In a world marked by rising conflict and intersecting health, climate and social challenges, your work matters more than ever.