(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

(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

Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) has launched its official teaser to its national ocean
careers campaign, called On the Job. The six-part awareness campaign, which will be promoted
across social media and a variety of digital platforms, aims to provide youth ages 18-30 with an
inside look at the kinds of roles for workers with a variety of skillsets and experiences across the
ocean sector.

“As the ocean economy is set to outpace the growth of the broader ocean economy globally,
Canada has the opportunity to lead and realize significant growth through Ambition 2035 – a 5X
growth potential in Canada’s sustainable ocean economy,” said Kendra MacDonald, CEO of
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. “This will not be possible without a well-skilled, diverse
workforce that is ready to take on the jobs of our current and future ocean economy in
Canada.”

MacDonald says access to talent is critical to the kind of transformational growth that is
possible in ocean in Canada, citing many Canadian companies operating in the ocean economy
struggle to find the talent they need to support growing market demands and an increased
customer base.

Drawing on his inquisitive nature and dynamic style of engagement, the OSC teamed up with
renowned innovation speaker, author and strategist, Shawn Kanungo to host the awareness
campaign. Kanungo spent a day taking on assigned in-demand jobs across six different
organizations in Canada’s ocean sector including Virtual Marine, Sensor Technology, Marine
Thinking, Cascadia Seaweed, Katal Energy, and Clearwater.

“After travelling around the country meeting with ocean tech entrepreneurs, it’s undeniable
this space is ready to explode,” said Shawn Kanungo. “The next billion-dollar companies will be
built in the ocean industry. We don’t just need bodies, we need people that are hungry to build,
lead and create a dent in the universe in a variety of roles.”

The On the Job national awareness campaign will be on the market for at least a 12 month
period. The teaser can be viewed here: OSC Presents – On The Job with Shawn Kanungo

Quick facts:

Ambition 2035 is a 5X growth ambition for Canada’s ocean sector by 2035 which
identifies six key drivers: scaled ocean energy, sustainable seafood, marine shipping,
ocean technology, ocean tourism, and public sector.

In 2018 Marine sectors in Canada contributed to provincial, regional and national
economies with activities that represented 1.6% of both Canada’s total employment and
gross domestic product (GDP) estimates.

Nearly seven million Canadians live in coastal communities that rely heavily on ocean
industries. Combined, these industries contribute $36.6 billion to our annual GDP and
support almost 300,000 jobs.

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

(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.

(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

(London, UK) – At Oceanology International, today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the launch of a project for Empowering Maritime Collaboration with AI powered intelligence. This project will develop and implement a Collaborative Berth Scheduler, a solution which connects ships, pilotages, and ports to provide optimal berth schedule management, the equivalent of an Air Traffic Control System for Ships. This advancement in digitization will empower increased maritime collaboration, enablement of digital corridors, facilitation of just in time operations, and optimized management of resources to minimize emissions, reduce fuel consumption and decrease wait-times.

Berth on-time arrival rates is an industry-wide challenge and can be as low as 30-50% at ports around the world. At the same time, vessels often arrive in port to find no berth available. This results in inefficient port resource utilization, excess shipping costs, excess fuel use and excess GHG emissions along trade routes and/or at anchor. The project lead, Global Spatial Technology Solutions Inc. (GSTS), based in Halifax, NS, will work in partnership with Canada Steamship Lines (CSL) as well as its customers and collaborators, Montreal Port Authority (MPA), Laurentian Pilotage Authority (LPA) and Clear Seas, to leverage its proprietary platform, OCIANA™ and implement novel AI algorithms to improve the overall efficiency of the maritime supply chain as well as support Green Digital Shipping Corridors.

The total value of this project is $12 million with Canada’s Ocean Supercluster investing $5 million through its funding through the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS) and with the balance of investment coming from project partners.

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

About Global Spatial Technology Solutions (GSTS)

Global Spatial Technology Solutions (GSTS) is a global maritime intelligence company delivering solutions to enhance decision making across the maritime and logistics industry. Our predictive solutions are enabled by a range of operational, environmental, vessel and cargo data to provide real-time decision making intelligence for ports, terminal operators, shipping lines, logistics companies, importers, exporters, national and international agencies as well as security organisations.

About Canada Steamship Lines (CSL)

The CSL Group is a world-leading provider of marine dry bulk cargo handling and delivery services. CSL owns and operates a highly diversified fleet of specialized self-unloading vessels, offshore transhippers and handy-size bulk carriers, and delivers more than 78 million tonnes of cargo to industrial customers annually.

About Montreal Port Authority (MPA)

Montreal Port Authority is a hub for international trade that contributes to the economic development of Canada. It does everything in its power to put innovation, sustainable development, and collaboration at the heart of its business processes. Their mission is to build together a more resilient, smarter and sustainable marine corridor.

About Laurentian Pilotage Authority (LPA)

The Laurentian Pilotage Authority, a federal Crown corporation created in 1972, is responsible for establishing, managing and providing marine pilotage services as well as related services in the Laurentian region waters, notably in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay River. The LPA monitors navigation manages regulations and provides services for three pilotage districts that cover a distance of 265 nautical miles between Montreal and Les Escoumins and another 70 nautical miles on the Saguenay River.

About Clear Seas

Clear Seas Centre for Responsible Marine Shipping was established in 2014 after extensive discussions among government, industry, environmental organizations, Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities revealed a need for impartial information about the Canadian marine shipping industry. It provides impartial information on marine shipping in Canada to policy makers and the public.

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 Empowering Maritime Collaboration through AI Project has the potential to significantly impact our ocean economy. By optimizing routes and improving port efficiencies, this initiative by Canada’s Ocean Cluster will strengthen supply chains and support cleaner oceans for Canadians.”

“Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announced three new projects with a total value of almost $18 million, including the Empowering Maritime Collaboration through AI Project. This project will help advance maritime operations through enhanced digitization, fostering collaboration, and streamlining processes. By creating digital corridors and enabling just-in-time operations, the project will help optimize resource management, minimize emissions, and reduce fuel consumption in marine shipping.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“We are extremely pleased to continue to work with our valued customers and innovation partners”, said Richard Kolacz, Chief Executive Officer, GSTS. “On a daily basis we see events that have an impact on vessel routing and schedules. These include the Red Sea Crisis, Panama Canal issues, weather events, like hurricanes and labour events such as strikes. OCIANA’s novel capability will allow vessels to respond to events and identify optimal routes and arrival times by coordinating with ports and pilotage authorities thereby reducing emissions, fuel use and transport costs”.

“As the first shipowner to participate in the Ocean Supercluster project, we are excited to support GSTS’ development of the OCIANA™ platform”, said Jean Fahmy, Vice President – Digital, Canada Steamship Lines. “By contributing real-time data from our Canadian fleet, we aim to help advance efforts to leverage artificial intelligence to support decarbonization in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway by optimizing Just-in-Time routing and voyage ETAs.”

“We are particularly proud of the work accomplished by our multidisciplinary team, in close collaboration with GSTS. This collaborative effort has resulted in a significant advance in port management. I congratulate the multidisciplinary team of experts in information technology, the environment, research and port operations management, who worked together at every stage of the project to create a collaborative platform dedicated to dock occupancy management”, said Julie Gascon, Chief Executive Officer, Montreal Port Authority. “Our approach began with the aim of improving the predictability of ship arrivals at the port, and then expanded to integrate the operational needs of stakeholders on the ground. This approach enabled us to develop an innovative tool that facilitates collaboration among all stakeholders, with the goal of optimizing the entire supply chain and the efficiency of maritime trade corridors”, she added.

“The Laurentian Pilotage Authority is pleased to join GSTS and the Ocean Supercluster project and thus contribute to the protection of the environment on the waters under its jurisdiction”, said Marc-Yves Bertin, Chief Executive Officer, Laurentian Pilotage Authority. “This initiative is directly in line with the Authority’s mission to provide a safe, effective, and efficient pilotage service with strong willingness to protecting human health, property and the environment, by innovating and using state-of-the-art technology that will improve the fluidity of the supply chain.”

“Clear Seas is excited to collaborate on this new initiative to develop a more efficient and intelligent maritime system in Canada”, said Paul Blomerus, Executive Director, Clear Seas. “Better information leads to better decisions, enabling marine shipping to continue its critical role in the supply chain while reducing its impact on the ocean.”

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) has launched its 2024 AI Ocean Call for Proposals. This new call program is focused on the accelerated advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in ocean, recognizing its substantial potential to profoundly influence the future, health, and prosperity of the world’s oceans.  

Through Ambition 2035, Canada has a five times growth, $220 billion potential in the ocean economy. The pervasive use of AI in operational decision-making is poised to significantly shape global opportunities and contribute to transformational growth in Canada’s sustainable ocean economy.  

Through its AI Ocean Program, the OSC will collaboratively invest with industry partners in successful project proposals. This financial support aims to provide the necessary means for companies to secure the capabilities required for Canadian firms to establish and maintain a competitive global position.  

This Call for Proposals is a deadline-driven and competitive framework, providing companies seeking to co-invest with the OSC an avenue to enhance their AI knowledge, capabilities, and overall competitiveness. 

The deadline for submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the AI Ocean Call for Proposals is February 27th, 2024, at 8:00PM Atlantic | 7:00PM Eastern | 4:00pmPM Pacific. Full program guidelines can be found here [LINK]. Complete EOI submissions must be submitted via email to: AI@oceansupercluster.ca. To learn more about AI Ocean Call for Proposals here – https://oceansupercluster.ca/aioceancall2024/. 

About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC)  

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 grown its membership to almost 600 members from across the country and approved more than 90 projects with a total value of approximately $400 million 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 Contact: 
Nancy Andrews 
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca 

Atlantic Canada’s Blue Economy Ecosystem Named 8^th Strongest Worldwide

(Dubai, UAE) With the backdrop of the world’s most important convention on climate, a new global report demonstrating the interconnectivity of the blue economy with clean and climate technologies was released. The Global Startup Ecosystem Report – Climatetech Edition was officially launched by Startup Genome and the Global Entrepreneurship Network today together with their partners Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, Cleantech Group, La Zone Bleue, and Mississippi Development Authority at COP 28. The report focuses on current startup activity, investments, and rankings identifying the global ecosystems propelling innovation. The full report is now live and free to access.

The world is increasingly focused on the blue economy given its interconnectedness to some of the biggest challenges that face humanity and the planet:

• The OECD projects the blue economy will outpace the broader global economy by 20 per cent by 2030.
• A recent report by the High-Level Panel for a Sustainable Ocean Economy indicates that up to 35 per cent of emissions reduction can come from the ocean.
• Offshore renewables are critical in the world’s energy transition to cleaner, more sustainable sources of power
• As the world’s population grows, the demand for sustainable protein is increasing and seafood consumption is expected to double by 2050.
• Ocean technologies to help decarbonize marine shipping are contributing to significant emissions reductions where businesses, such as Apple, may increasingly consider this form of shipping over others.
• Regional ocean innovation hubs, ocean clusters and superclusters are growing in Canada and world-wide to harness the opportunity the new blue economy presents.
• Canada’s Ocean Supercluster has released a five times growth ambition for Canada called Ambition 2035 which would see the blue economy increase from 1.6 per cent of Canada’s GDP to more than 5 per cent.

The new global report provides key findings, including Canadian rankings in the Blue Economy and Climatetech:

• In world rankings, Singapore remains the world-leading startup ecosystem for the blue economy. There were four countries which have two ecosystems in the top 25 blue economy rankings including Canada, Denmark, Germany, and the U.K. The inclusion of Canada and Denmark on this list is notable given their smaller populations and market size relative to Germany and the U.K.
• For the Strongest Blue Economy Ecosystem Atlantic Canada ranks 8^th globally (and top 5 in North America), with Vancouver ranked 14^th and Toronto-Waterloo coming in under the top 30 best blue economy ecosystems. As a top accelerator in North America, the Ocean Startup Project receives special mention in the report – a pan-Canadian project under Canada’s Ocean Supercluster which has supported almost 100 new ocean companies get a start in Canada in the last 3 years, and with the aim to make Canada the best place to start an ocean company.
• For top 5 Cleantech Ecosystems in North America, Vancouver takes the fifth ranking.
• Calgary and Edmonton were the top 2 Ecosystems to Watch in North America.
• Europe has surpassed North America in its share of blue economy Series A funding.

About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC)

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 with a total value of more than $400 million 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

Quotes:

Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster:

“We are a proud partner in this new global report on the interconnectedness of climate tech and the blue economy. As a catalyst for accelerated growth in ocean and a convenor of Canada’s ocean network, we are even more proud of the demonstrated momentum and gains in global rankings we are seeing. From our pan-Canadian Ocean Startup Project to our portfolio of more than 90 ocean innovation solutions involving 300 partners from across the country, more than 200 new ocean products, processes, and services are being delivered to the world and helping increase Canada’s competitiveness.”

“If you look at what’s happening in clean tech, climate tech, and blue tech today, it’s the ocean which is at the heart of not only solving some of the biggest challenges the world is facing, but also in creating some of the most significant, sustainable economic opportunities now and for the future.”

“Here at COP28 our message is one around the sense of urgency that is required around the blue economy. It is critical for us as a country and a planet that we prioritize our ocean because without it, we will not achieve our net-zero ambitions or achieve the kind of economic growth that is very much needed.”

Media Contact:

Nancy Andrews
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca

Call for Proposals Process Now Open

Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) launched its new Ocean Climate Solutions Program Call for Proposals. This Call for Proposals is a dedicated initiative aimed at identifying, supporting, and amplifying ocean projects that present tangible and scalable commercial solutions to address the multifaceted challenges of climate change.

The undeniable impacts of climate change have underscored the urgency of finding innovative and impactful solutions that will have an impact on the planet, people, and economy. To help navigate this, the OSC has launched its Ocean Climate Solutions Program to utilize the power of collective action and the potential for groundbreaking ideas to shape the trajectory of our planet.

The Ocean Climate Solutions Call is a deadline driven, competitive opportunity for collaborative project consortiums that wish to co-invest with the OSC. These ocean solutions will not only help protect our planet and create sustainable economy, but they will also help industry access and acquire the capability Canadian companies need now to become and stay globally competitive.

Applications that fall under one of the following program themes are welcomed:

• Solutions for ocean-based carbon capture and sequestration
• Ocean bioresource development
• Global ocean observation capabilities
• Innovative finance, insurance, marketplaces, or computational modelling products and services
• Additional commercial concepts welcomed including human adaptation, coastal resiliency, and marine decarbonization

The deadline for submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Ocean Climate Solutions Program Call for Proposals is December 6, 2023, at 8:00PM Atlantic | 7:00PM Eastern | 4:00pmPM Pacific. Full program guidelines can be found here.

The OSC will offer a public virtual information session for this program on Monday October 23rd at 1pm Atlantic/ 12 pm Eastern/ 9am Pacific to review the details of the program and respond to questions. If you would like to attend, please register here. The session will be recorded and posted on the Ocean Climate Solutions Call program webpage for those who cannot attend.

About Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC)

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 with a total value of more than $400 million 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 Contact:

Nancy Andrews
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster
nancy.andrews@oceansupercluster.ca

Quotes:

“Today we are launching Canada’s Ocean Supercluster’s new program called the Ocean Climate Solutions Program. Through this call for proposals program, we will continue to take action and accelerate the development and commercialization of solutions that help grow more companies, expand market potential, and contribute to the health of our planet. Together with industry, we will co-invest in ocean projects that offer tangible and scalable commercial approaches to address the multifaceted aspects of climate change and support Canada’s climate targets.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

(Montreal, Quebec) Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the HydroAware Project to expand hydropower and safeguard habitats using AI-powered fish monitoring. This project will help the advancement of fish monitoring technology by enhancing reliable fish tracking in harsh marine environments and increasing the availability of fish tracking insights from remote locations.

Led by Innovasea in Bedford, NS, the HydroAware Project shows promising advantages for the renewable energy community as the proposed AI advancements in fish tracking technology aim to address prevailing challenges by increasing approval rates for tidal stream and hydropower projects, reducing regulatory delays, and unlocking increased revenue potential. This solution has the potential to play a pivotal role in harnessing Canada’s untapped tidal stream and hydroelectric resource potential, aligning with the nation’s clean energy objectives and fostering substantial market opportunities within the ocean sector.

Together with partners Fundy Ocean Research Centre for Energy (FORCE), BigMoon Power, Nova Scotia Power Inc., New Brunswick Power Corporation, and DeepSense, this project has a total value of almost $10.5 million where Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is contributing $5 million under its allocation through the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy (PCAIS) Program and the balance of funding coming from project partners.

Hydropower companies, aiming to maximize energy production while complying with legislation like the Fisheries Act and Species at Risk Act face the challenge of safeguarding fish populations from harm by their infrastructure. They use fish tracking solutions to monitor fish behaviour in and around their infrastructure to minimize impacts and ensure safe fish passage. The HydroAware Project will enhance fish tracking technology with AI, providing hydropower companies with the ability to collect evidence of safe fish passage, expediting regulatory approvals, and promoting renewable hydropower generation in Canada.

Quotes:

“Through the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the government is pleased to support Canada’s Ocean Cluster as it drive AI solutions for Canadian ocean companies. This fish-tracking technology project, one of nine projects announced today by OSC, could play a key role in contributing to Canada’s clean energy goals while also creating substantial market opportunities in the ocean sector.” – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“AI in ocean has the potential to help transform the way we do ocean business. Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster announce the $10.5 million dollar HydroAware Project, bringing together partners across different ocean sectors to advance AI in fish tracking technology, manage the movement of fish around hydropower infrastructure, support the sustainable growth of an industry and create economic benefits and jobs in the process.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“Incorporating artificial intelligence capabilities to our existing fish tracking technology will help ensure that hydropower producers in Canada and beyond are able to meet their green power goals in a manner that safeguards habitats and minimizes impacts to marine life. AI will enable us to monitor fish activity in environments that were previously too remote or inhospitable, ultimately serving as a catalyst for the next generation of hydro and tidal power facilities.” – Mark Jollymore, President of Innovasea

“The HydroAware project is going to build upon the significant advancements Innovasea has made with tagless fish detection technology over the last few years while working with many of the same partners. That technology is giving hydropower producers better, real-time data on fish activity in and around their infrastructure today to help meet the dual mandate of protecting wildlife and improving operations.” – Mark Jollymore, President of Innovasea

“Tidal energy can help us meet our clean energy targets, contribute to our economy, and reduce reliance on imported energy. HydroAware will help us unlock that potential by improving our understanding of how fish and tidal devices interact with each other, and ensuring the safeguarding of our marine ecosystems.” – FORCE

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 85 projects with a total value of more than $400 million 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