How much does an AI consultant cost?
In Canada, small assessments start around $1,500 to $5,000. Implementation projects run $5,000 to $25,000. Enterprise engagements go $25,000 to $100,000 and up. Ongoing retainers sit between $2,000 and $10,000 a month.
Pricing depends on three things: the scope of work, the experience of the consultant, and whether billing is hourly, fixed-fee, or retainer.
A focused assessment to identify where AI fits in your business typically runs $1,500 to $5,000. Implementation work, where a consultant actually builds and deploys AI workflows or automations, generally lands between $5,000 and $25,000 per project depending on complexity. Retainers for ongoing optimization and new builds sit between $2,000 and $10,000 per month. Enterprise-scale programs with custom model work, multi-department rollouts, or regulated industry compliance can run $25,000 to $100,000 and beyond.
Cheap AI consulting is almost always a warning sign. Generic chatbot setups at $500 are usually templates that do not fit your business. The real value comes from scoping, governance, and integration, and those take real expertise.
Want to go deeper?
Signal & Form helps Canadian businesses move from curiosity to working AI systems.
Related questions
Have a specific question about your business?
Book a free 20-minute discovery call. We will answer your specific question and tell you whether we are the right fit, or not.