Author: Jess Hartjes
The Power of Diversity in Ocean Innovation and Conservation
By: Serena Nguyen (she/her) Founder, CEO & Principal Consultant Evolve Oceans
Earlier this year, I attended several ocean conferences, including the UN Ocean Decade, World Ocean Summit & Expo, H2O, and Oceanfest. While inspiring and insightful for those who could attend, something felt off.
Looking back, I realized that in those events, and the many smaller group discussions with leaders committed to tackling urgent ocean issues, there were very few people who looked like me…few or no other people of colour and limited gender or cultural diversity on stage or in the rooms. We discussed the importance of our ocean and its biodiversity, yet diverse voices, perspectives and experiences were missing from the conversation.
The parallels between human diversity and ocean biodiversity are not just interesting, but crucial. Our ocean, which covers 80% of the planet, is home to countless life forms, many of which are yet to be discovered. The diversity of these life forms is vital for climate regulation, food security, and oxygen production. However, as we face threats like climate change, overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction, it’s clear that we need to do more. We need to fully integrate the diversity of human perspectives, knowledge, and cultural practices to develop effective solutions to protect our ocean.
For example, generations of Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities have developed a deep, long-standing connection to the ocean. Their traditional knowledge and sustainable practices have preserved marine ecosystems for millennia. The Maori in New Zealand and Indigenous Peoples in the Pacific Northwest have managed their coastal resources sustainably, maintaining healthy fish populations and habitats. A 2021 UN report noted that Indigenous Peoples manage or hold tenure over 25% of the world’s land surface, supporting 80% of global biodiversity. Despite their invaluable contributions, these communities are often marginalized in ocean conservation, science, and policy.
To make meaningful progress in our efforts to grow, innovate, and protect ocean health and the blue economy, we must break out of our echo chambers and include more diverse experiences, skills, and perspectives. This won’t happen so long as I, and others like me, have to push to get into these rooms.
The intersection of human diversity and ocean biodiversity is not just about inclusion but survival. As we face unprecedented environmental challenges, leveraging the full spectrum of human knowledge and experience is crucial for developing sustainable solutions. By valuing and incorporating contributions from all communities and sectors, we can create the solutions needed for more resilient and thriving ecosystems in the ocean and on land.
So, the next time you ask yourself how you can contribute to the ocean, know that your diverse perspective, experiences, and skills can help create the next critical solution needed to protect our ocean and all life on land.
It’s time to bring more diversity into the blue economy. Are you interested in joining me?
Charting a Sustainable Future as We Celebrate Our Partners, Founders and Launch Phase Three of the Ocean Startup Project
By: Dr. Paula Mendonça (she/her) Executive Director, Ocean Startup Project
Our collective vision for Canada’s ocean economy is a bold one; reaching a target of 5x growth by 2035. This will require innovative solutions from companies of every size, including startups who are working to rethink how we can create a more sustainable future. As the Ocean Startup Project launches into Phase Three, we are excited to celebrate our founders’ remarkable achievements and look ahead to the impact emerging companies will have.
It wasn’t long ago that innovation and tech ecosystem leaders from across the Atlantic provinces met to discuss how to best collaborate and support ocean startups. They recognized that generating more ocean technology startups could significantly contribute to Canada’s ocean economy and the broader international blue economy. This understanding combined with a willingness to collaborate led to the Ocean Startup Project’s creation in 2020, launched as an initiative under Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. Our original partners included Genesis in Newfoundland and Labrador, Springboard Atlantic and Invest Nova Scotia (then Innovacorp), Prince Edward Island BioAlliance, New Brunswick Innovation Foundation, Creative Destruction Lab and federal and provincial governments. Our mandate was clear and continues to be: we’re making Canada the best place in the world to start and grow an ocean company.
I was thrilled to be brought into the Project to work with the previous executive director and the team in the early days as new initiatives and programs were rapidly developed and launched (in the midst of a global pandemic nonetheless). Now as the new executive director, I have the pleasure of working even closer with these incredibly knowledgeable individuals who are truly committed to the success of early-stage ocean innovators.
Canada’s ocean startup ecosystem quickly gained impressive momentum and in 2022, we expanded our focus from pan-Atlantic to national to support more ocean innovators across the country. We welcomed new partners, British Columbia-based Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies (COAST) and Quebec-based Technopole Maritime du Quebec (TMQ).
We’ve also seen various ocean-focused organizations and hubs emerge across the country. The increasing support for ocean innovation is a strong signal that ocean startups and the sustainable technologies they are developing have an increasingly important role in mitigating the impact of climate change, improving ocean health, and of course, in building Canada’s ocean economy.
We measure our success by the achievements of our startups and in just four years, we have incredible stories from the 184 startup teams we have supported. We’ve seen companies such as On Deck Fisheries (BC), CORSphere (NL), Scient (NS) and Coastal Carbon (ON) use AI for sustainable ocean growth and receive significant Canada’s Ocean Supercluster funding.
Our startups have raised more than $20 million, created more than 375 jobs, participated in various national and international accelerator programs, and emerged as leaders in the ocean sector, inspiring the next generation of ocean startup innovators.
As we look to the future, our vision remains bold: Canada is and will continue to be the best place to start and grow an ocean startup. With the world’s longest coastlines, we have unparalleled access to our beautiful waters. Our partners from across the country are committed to supporting our work and collaborating to create programs and initiatives that ensure our ocean startup ecosystem is connected, thrives and becomes self-sustaining. This will enable us all, around the world, to reap the benefits of the innovative work being done by ocean startups now and in the future.
Thank you to our partners, early-stage founders, and all involved in this journey. Together, we are making waves in the ocean tech industry. Let’s continue to push boundaries and innovate for a sustainable future.
Mi’kmaq–led ocean science expedition
By: Ken Paul (he/him/nekom) Principal / Owner Pokiok Associates
On June 25, 2024, Miawpukek Horizon have just completed a 13-day, Mi’kmaq-led ocean science expedition on-board the Oqwatnukewey Eleke’wi’ji’jit – Polar Prince. The ship, owned by Miawpukek First Nation and Maritime Horizon, is a former Coast Guard ice breaker that is used and leased out by scientific organizations and NGOs to conduct research, training, and data collection at sea.
This past winter, Miawpukek Horizon had began an ambitious plan to not only coordinate research partners for the cruise, but also secure funding support from Ulnooweg Development Group to create a learning environment for Mi’kmaq youth. Youth members of the Qalipu First Nation, Miawpukek First Nation, and Jr. Canadian Rangers occupied the vessel for each of the 3 legs of the cruise. The first leg started in Stephenville and focused on the South Coast Fjords, which is an area of interest for researchers and coastal communities, and is a long term project to create a marine Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area led by the Miawpukek First Nation.
The second leg was focused on research and data collection in Bay d’Espoir which included underwater cameras, bottom grabs, conductivity/temperature/depth measurements, and water sampling. The youth were involved with the ship-borne data collection and presented with the analysis to give them hands-on experience in ocean research. We were also treated to a community cultural celebration in the community of Miawpukek First Nation along with a feast that included grilled salmon and moose stew.
The last leg was to give experience to the Jr. Canadian Rangers on the expedition to the Funk Islands Marine Protected Area. The assessments on the site were conducted by Memorial University and the cruise concluded in St. John’s on the 25th.
Indigenous-led projects in the ocean science sector are rare. Miawpukek Horizon is taking a bold approach towards enabling Mi’kmaq-led science that will include a two-eyed seeing integrative approach with Indigenous Knowledge Systems. The June expedition, led by the Miawpukek First Nation, is the first ship-borne science expedition on the south coast of Newfoundland organized and delivered with partners by an Indigenous group in Canada. The long term view is to prepare youth for careers in the ocean research sector, focus on research priorities in the marine environment, and continue research and data collection towards creating protected areas for First Nations and coastal communities.
Miawpukek Horizon would like to acknowledge the following partners, without whom this Mi’kmaq-led science expedition could not have occurred:
- Ocean Networks Canada
- Audubon Society
- PEW Foundation
- Royal Canadian Geographic Society
- South Coast Fjords Protected Area Steering Committee.
- Department of Fisheries and Oceans (NL)
- Marine Institute at Memorial University
- Pokiok Associates
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announces $2.2m project to optimize maritime supply chain operations and reduce emissions
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announces $2.2m project to optimize maritime supply chain operations and reduce emissions
(Ottawa, ON) Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the Optimizing Maritime Supply Chain Operations Project to establish real-time carbon emissions monitoring and mitigation tools, integrated with advanced data analytics and tracking systems to align with sustainability goals. The project will enhance maritime supply chain efficiency, sustainability, and security, aligning with environmental goals by monitoring and reducing emissions.
Led by OceanSync in Halifax, NS, a key innovation of the new OSC project is the development of a Modal Optimization Tool (MOT) to create a resilient cargo distribution network which considers the CO2e associated with various route/modal choice, as well as modelling that includes climate change-related weather challenges and cybersecurity measures. The incorporation of real-time marine weather data into the risk models and the use of machine learning for dynamic risk analysis represent technological advancements in safety and risk management. The project’s risk framework will improve safety, positioning Canada as a technology leader and attracting international collaboration.
Together with partners BlueNode by Everstream Analytics and Bespoke Global Logistics & Strategies, this project has a total value of almost $2.2 million where Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is contributing almost $875,000 and the balance of funding coming from project partners.
Global port traffic, exceeding $4 trillion and handling 90% of global trade, faces challenges in reliability, particularly in maritime shipping where on-time arrival rarely exceeds 60%. This discrepancy prompts many organizations, especially those reliant on timeliness, to opt for air freight despite its higher carbon intensity and costs. The root cause lies in effective decision-making rather than transport efficacy. To foster growth in maritime shipping, an effective decision tool is imperative, one that considers speed, reliability, costs, carbon intensity, and external factors like weather and labor relations. The Optimizing Maritime Supply Chain Operations project aims to revolutionize logistics by introducing a Modal Optimization Tool (MOT) to enhance supply chain agility and resilience.
Quotes
“Supply chains are a crucial part of any business and essential for the health of our global economy, yet they face ever-increasing risk from natural disasters, geopolitical factors, and other disruptions,” said Jon Bovit, VP of Public Sector and Trade at BlueNode by Everstream Analytics. “Together with Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, we’re taking supply chain and trade intelligence further to enable global organizations to understand how to get their raw materials and products to customers safely and quickly while optimizing for speed, security, and sustainability.”
About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster accelerates the development and commercialization of made-in-Canada ocean solutions in energy transition, food security, future of transport, and climate change while also growing more companies, creating more jobs, and attracting ocean talent. As Canada’s national ocean cluster, the OSC is a convenor of members, partners, and networks and a catalyst for transformative growth that helps build the robust ecosystem needed to help realize Ambition 2035 – a 5X growth potential in ocean in Canada by 2035. To date, the OSC has approved almost 100 projects which will deliver more than 220 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world. For more information visit oceansupercluster.ca
About BlueNode by Everstream Analytics
The world’s best supply chains run on Everstream Analytics. Through the application of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics to its vast proprietary dataset, Everstream delivers the predictive insights and risk analytics businesses need for a smarter, more autonomous and sustainable supply chain. Everstream’s proven solution integrates with procurement, logistics and business continuity platforms generating the complete information, sharper analysis, and accurate predictions required to turn the supply chain into a business asset. To learn more, visit https://www.everstream.ai/.
Media Contacts:
Nancy Andrews
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announces $7M project expediting the development and commercialization of electric propulsion systems
(Ottawa, ON) Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the Canadian Electric Propulsion Acceleration Coalition (CEPAC) Project to expedite the development and commercialization of electric propulsion systems through collaboration among marine industry stakeholders. By advancing electric propulsion systems collaboratively, CEPAC boosts Canada’s marine industry competitiveness, establishes a domestic, coast-to-coast supply chain, and fosters job creation.
Led by Photon Marine Canada in Victoria, BC, the CEPAC aims to establish a Canadian electric boat manufacturing supply chain, addressing challenges such as fleet electrification and hull design optimization. The Coalition’s diversity – which includes boat manufacturers, charging infrastructure providers, an electric outboard motor company, and an indigenous deep-water testing facility – ensures technology scalability.
Together with partners in Canada’s Ocean Playground Nova Scotia; BlueGrid, Rosborough Boats, ABCO Industries Inc, and in Beautiful British Columbia; Malahat Solutions, VoltSafe Inc., and Mostar Labs Inc., this project has a total value of more than $7 million. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is contributing $2.7 million and the balance of funding coming from project partners.
This new OSC project not only delivers significant economic benefit but also contributes to environmental sustainability, reduces reliance on foreign entities, and drives innovation. CEPAC also addresses workforce needs, supporting a diverse, skilled workforce ready to tackle climate challenges. Overall, CEPAC propels Canada towards a greener, more prosperous future.
Quotes
“Our government is excited to support Canada’s Ocean Supercluster as it advances initiatives that promote sustainability while bolstering industry competitiveness and economic growth,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. “The Canadian Electric Propulsion Acceleration Coalition project, one of three projects announced today, will help accelerate the development and commercialization of electric propulsion systems in Canada, reducing emissions and supporting innovation in the sector and creating job opportunities for Canadians.”
“The CEPAC Project brings together collaborators from across the ocean sector to advance electric propulsion capabilities, increase Canada’s competitiveness globally, while both contributing to environmental targets, benefits for communities, and economic growth potential under Ambition 2035,” said Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. “Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is thrilled to co-invest in this project with the project team which will help increase domestic supply chain and create good jobs.”
“The CEPAC initiative will allow us to accelerate the transition to electric propulsion across key maritime sectors while reducing commercialization risk for the consortium members,” said Marcelino J. Alvarez, CEO of Photon Marine. “Canada’s leadership in maritime decarbonization sets an example for the rest of the world.”
Andrew Boswell, CEO of BlueGrid, noted, “Vessel and energy data plays a major role throughout the design, operations, and commercialization elements of the project. Insights from customers’ existing conventionally powered vessels will be captured and used to inform everything from infrastructure deployment to hull designs, and then the new electric vessel data will be used to optimize performance to charging. This industry-leading use of data accelerates getting hundreds of electric boats in use, and we are thrilled to be a founding partner of CEPAC.”
“Malahat Solutions Inc. is proud to be the testing facility for this project. As a pivotal indigenous testing facility specializing in climate change adaptation and sustainability solutions, we’re eager to contribute to building generational knowledge for climate change mitigation and adaptation” said Allison Dame, Director of Partnerships at Malahat Solutions Inc. “Located within the diverse terrains of the Malahat Eco-Industrial Park, our partnership with the Malahat Nation allows us to integrate traditional ecological knowledge with cutting-edge technology. This unique collaboration enhances our ability to create and evaluate innovative solutions, driving meaningful impact and long-term climate adaptability for Indigenous communities and beyond.”
“In order to deliver on the demands of the commercial customer, safe, reliable charging infrastructure is critical. VoltSafe’s innovative technology ensures safe and efficient energy transfer, eliminating risks and enhancing energy management,” said Co-Founder & CEO of VoltSafe, Trevor Burgess. “VoltSafe is excited to be part of CEPAC, bringing our disruptive shore power solution forward as a key contributor in this proactive coalition of outstanding Canadian companies. We’re partnering together to achieve transformative growth in a sustainable blue economy.”
“This program will allow us to demonstrate the viability of electric propulsion to our Professional Marine Operators in Canada and abroad,” said Heaton Rosborough of Rosborough Boats. “It gives us a platform to scale our existing electric vessel program,” noted Colin Ross of ABCO Boats.
About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster accelerates the development and commercialization of made-in-Canada ocean solutions in energy transition, food security, future of transport, and climate change while also growing more companies, creating more jobs, and attracting ocean talent. As Canada’s national ocean cluster, the OSC is a convenor of members, partners, and networks and a catalyst for transformative growth that helps build the robust ecosystem needed to help realize Ambition 2035 – a 5X growth potential in ocean in Canada by 2035. To date, the OSC has approved close to 100 projects which will deliver more than 220 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world. For more information visit oceansupercluster.ca
Media Contacts:
Nancy Andrews
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announces $5M project to advance kelp farming and carbon fixation assessment
(Ottawa, ON) Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the Verifying Ocean Climate Impacts Project to address the urgent need in the ocean industry for sustainable, scalable, and measurable solutions to evaluate kelp’s impact on carbon fixation, biodiversity, and ocean health.
Led by veritree Technology Inc. in Vancouver, BC, the project aims to develop robust methodologies for carbon fixation assessment, construct energy-efficient floats, establish microhatcheries for seed cultivation, train a skilled workforce, and implement an MRV system. Additionally, an Ocean Restoration SOP, with an integrated Ocean Index, will guide project evaluation.
Together with partner Coastal Kelp Inc., this project has a total value of almost $5 million where Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is contributing $2.1M under with the balance of funding coming from project partners.
The scalable design ensures benefits can be accessed across different regions, promoting inclusivity. The implementation of the Ocean Restoration SOP and Ocean Index empowers communities to manage local restoration projects, enhancing their sense of ownership and commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, the project aims to establish a complete value chain for verified ocean restoration impacts, positioning Canada as a leader in this field and providing a framework adaptable for global use.
By providing workforce development training in kelp farming and restoration techniques, this project creates sustainable employment opportunities, particularly in coastal and Indigenous communities. This not only supports economic growth but also fosters engagement in the blue economy.
Quotes
“Our government is excited to support Canada’s Ocean Supercluster as it advances initiatives that promote sustainability while bolstering industry competitiveness and economic growth,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. “The Verifying Ocean Climate Impacts project, one of three projects announced today, will support economic opportunities for coastal and Indigenous communities and will position Canada as a leader in sustainable ocean restoration practices.”
“Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is proud to co-invest in the Verifying Ocean Climate Impacts Project, recognizing the need for sustainable, scalable, and measurable solutions to evaluate kelp’s impact on carbon fixation, biodiversity, and ocean health,” said Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. “This project will help empower communities focused on restoration activity, creating jobs and new growth, and building towards a more sustainable ocean future.”
About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster accelerates the development and commercialization of made-in-Canada ocean solutions in energy transition, food security, future of transport, and climate change while also growing more companies, creating more jobs, and attracting ocean talent. As Canada’s national ocean cluster, the OSC is a convenor of members, partners, and networks and a catalyst for transformative growth that helps build the robust ecosystem needed to help realize Ambition 2035 – a 5X growth potential in ocean in Canada by 2035. To date, the OSC has approved close to 100 projects which will deliver more than 220 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world. For more information visit oceansupercluster.ca
Media Contacts:
Nancy Andrews
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca
Global Seaweed Connectivity: A Colourful Future?
By: Phoebe Lewis, Marine Science Researcher and Designer
How does a researcher in the North East of England meet the CEO of the Pacific Seaweed Industry Association (PSIA)? The answer is at a small pub on the west coast of Scotland, but it wasn’t a love of whiskey that brought us together, instead, a (healthy) obsession with seaweed which only grew during the 2023 Scottish Seaweed Industry Association (SSIA) conference held in Oban, UK.
On reflection, the SSIA conference showcased such an inspiring collection of expertise and diverse perspectives, but also highlighted how uniquely fragmented the seaweed industry really is. The UK and Canada’s seaweed industry’s unique fragmentation is largely down to them both being in their infancy. Whilst this might seem a little disheartening, it’s actually one of the most exciting aspects of the industry – we are still in a position to decide how it grows, which is not something that can be said for many other industries. That is why I first found the work of the PSIA to be so valuable, they are paving the way to connect farmers to product developers to academics to engineers to conservationists to communities and everyone in between – all under the notion of ‘let’s make this work, but actually work’.
Fast forward 5 months and I have been fortunate enough to join Mark Smith, CEO and President, of the PSIA on Vancouver Island for a deep dive into the west coast of Canada’s seaweed industry. The opportunity for this came about after being successful in a knowledge transfer grant awarded by the Doctoral College at Newcastle University – one small step closer to global seaweed connectivity. Since arriving in Canada, Mark and I have embarked on a journey across some of the jaw-dropping scenery of Vancouver Island, meeting with industry insiders and enthusiasts to map out pathways for sustainable growth. This has been an opportunity for me, a designer now turned marine scientist, to build on my own research with international connections. My focus has always been on developing sustainable products that help restore marine ecosystems and coastal communities, most recently, this has involved extracting pigments from seaweed for commercial use in textile dyes.
Whilst each of the colour swatches in the photo above showcase my own journey of material exploration and growth in understanding, there is still a big disconnect between that and implementing a sustainable product into a well-defined supply chain. To move forward with this work and maintain alignment with my evolving climate concerns, I am developing a framework to assess the viability of new pigment sources by asking two key questions: ‘can it be done?’ and ‘should it be done?’. The former is understanding if obtaining the pigments is possible and the latter being an evaluation of the social, environmental and economic impacts at each stage of the supply chain. Embedding these simple questions across the wider context of the conversations being had with people during my time in Canada has sparked creativity and new ideas for the PSIA. One of the ideas that Mark and I are working together on is to connect the voices of the industry and create a platform in which to showcase the stories that make up this very eclectic mix of innovations, opportunities and life-long passions. Keep an eye out later this year!
I’m very grateful to have been at that pub in Oban last year and to now be working alongside the very dedicated PSIA. The conversations so far have been very encouraging to see such a strong desire to collaborate and share knowledge in the journey to a common goal – building what we hope to be a safe and sustainable, globally connected industry that protects biodiversity and empowers communities.
Growing the Blue Economy
By: Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
As the CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, I am continually reminded of a striking reality: Canada, a nation blessed with the world’s longest coastline, currently captures only about half the global average value from our ocean economy. Recognizing this underutilization presents a significant opportunity for improvement, not only economically but also for the betterment of our planet’s well-being.
Recently, during an interview on the Insights Podcast with Don Mills and David Campbell, I had the opportunity to explore a number of topics including the collective ocean ambition for Canada we launched last year, Ambition 2035. This national platform is designed to bring Canada’s ocean network together around the potential to grow Canada’s sustainable ocean economy 5X by the year 2035.
For the complete podcast, listen here: Canada’s Ocean Supercluster – Growing the Blue Economy with Kendra MacDonald, CEO of OSC
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announces $2.6M OceanAI Navigator ProjectAI-Integrated Fleet Management platform
(London,UK) – At Oceanology International today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the OceanAI Navigator Project. This project is designed to help marine shipping companies optimize their fuel-emissions, maintenance and operations by creating a co-pilot for marine fleet operations. The advanced AI models will be interactive and adaptive, allowing marine engineers to feed in their insights, and operational context, ensuring more accurate and efficient results.
The OceanAI Navigator Project represents a pivotal opportunity for Canada to provide leadership in the AI landscape. By focusing on AI development within a key growth sector and also one where emissions reductions are critical to achieving net zero, this project contributes significantly to the broader AI ecosystem where marine fleet operators will gain greater agility, insight, and adaptability, bolstering their competitive edge on the global stage.
The project will be led by CORSphere Software Inc. Along with Dartmouth, NS based project partner Leeway Marine and collaborator Energy Research & Innovation Newfoundland and Labrador (ERINL). With a total project value of $2.4M, OSC will contribute $950K from its funding under the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS) with the balance of funding coming from project partners.
The project entails developing an AI-powered SaaS platform by CORSphere for optimizing marine fleet operations, a co-pilot to proactively assist fleet operators. This platform will seamlessly integrate with existing systems, utilizing AI to minimize fuel consumption, lower emissions, and predict maintenance needs accurately. Its interactive and adaptive AI models allow marine engineers to contribute insights and add operational context, ensuring efficiency in a continuously evolving industry.
About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster accelerates the development and commercialization of made-in-Canada ocean solutions in energy transition, food security, future of transport, and climate change while also growing more companies, creating more jobs, and attracting ocean talent. As Canada’s national ocean cluster, the OSC is a convenor of members, partners, and networks and a catalyst for transformative growth that helps build the robust ecosystem needed to help realize Ambition 2035 – a 5X growth potential in ocean in Canada by 2035. To date, the OSC has approved more than 90 projects which will deliver more than 200 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world. For more information visit oceansupercluster.ca
Media Contacts:
Nancy Andrews Canada’s Ocean Supercluster nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca
About CORSphere
CORSphere aims to democratize AI across defence, marine, and industrial sectors to enhance operational efficiency. Our next-generation AI suite, featuring a unique Human-Machine-Teaming interface, transforms machinery and IoT data analysis, focusing on predictive maintenance, logistics, and operations. CORSphere aims to pave the way for organizations to use their data to leverage secure and reliable AI solutions.
Quotes:
“Canadian innovation is stepping up to solve some of the world’s most pressing issues. The OceanAI Navigator Project has the potential to significantly impact our ocean economy. By optimizing routes and reducing fuel consumption, this initiative by Canada’s Ocean Cluster will contribute to cleaner oceans and a cleaner environment for Canadians.” – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry
“Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced three new projects with a total value of almost $18 million, including the OceanAI Navigator Project. This project will deliver a solution that leverages the power of AI to act as a co-pilot to proactively assist fleet operators. Leveraging existing systems, operator insights, and AI, the solution will help minimize fuel consumption, lower emissions, and predict maintenance needs accurately in marine transportation.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
“Today marks an important milestone as we embark on this journey to work on the OceanAI Navigator, an AI co-pilot to propel the marine industry and Canada’s blue economy towards a greener future, promising enhanced efficiency and reduced environmental impact. We’re thrilled to steer this initiative towards a cleaner, more sustainable global ocean economy with our partners.” – Co-founder & CEO, CORSphere, M Sazied Hassan.
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster Announced $3.2M AtoN Project for Safer Marine Transport
(London, UK) – At Oceanology International, today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the $3.2 million Aids to Navigation (AtoN) Project. The focus of this project is to ensure safer and more efficient maritime transportation by enabling important upgrades to navigation buoys and mooring systems, through advanced technology, design, and management software integration. Beyond preventing damage and drifting occurrences of bouys, this project will make a significant contribution to maritime safety, fostering innovation, benefiting businesses, and providing cost-effective solutions for the lighthouse authorities and coast guards in Canada and around the world.
The project will create a Software as a Service (SaaS) product for AtoN systems with advanced dynamic analysis capabilities. Project lead DSA Ocean will leverage ProteusDS software platform and marine dynamics expertise. The project will help ensure safe navigation, protecting those working on the water, the environment, and marine industry operations. This project is a significant advancement for Canadian maritime safety where the Canadian Coast Guard and its supply chain can benefit from this innovative SaaS tool, aligning with the national AtoN modernization goals.
The project will be led by Victoria, BC based DSA Ocean, with partner Go Deep International (NB) Inc. based in Saint John, NB. With the total project value of $3.2 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $1.2 million, with the balance invested by the project partners.
Potential end-users, including the Canadian Coast Guard the US Coast Guard, and Bouy designers will receive tailored products, ensuring enhanced operational capabilities and substantial cost savings.
About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster accelerates the development and commercialization of made-in-Canada ocean solutions in energy transition, food security, future of transport, and climate change while also growing more companies, creating more jobs, and attracting ocean talent. As Canada’s national ocean cluster, the OSC is a convenor of members, partners, and networks and a catalyst for transformative growth that helps build the robust ecosystem needed to help realize Ambition 2035 – a 5X growth potential in ocean in Canada by 2035. To date, the OSC has approved more than 90 projects which will deliver more than 200 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world. For more information visit oceansupercluster.ca
Media Contacts:
Nancy Andrews Canada’s Ocean Supercluster nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca
Quotes:
“Canadian innovation is stepping up to solve some of the world’s most pressing issues,” said the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. “The Aids to Navigation Project, an initiative by Canada’s Ocean Cluster, exemplifies how Canadian innovation can reduce operating costs while promoting a safer and healthier environment for Canadians.”
“Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced three new projects with a total value of almost $18 million, including the Aids to Navigation Project. This project will be delivered by project partners from Canada’s west and east coasts who will work collaboratively to deliver a solution that will make a significant contribution to both increased maritime safety and providing cost-effective solutions for the lighthouse authorities and coast guards in Canada and worldwide. ” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster