June 10, 2025 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
 

(HALIFAX) – Canada’s Ocean Supercluster today announced five new ocean innovation projects worth over $18 million during the H20 Conference in Halifax, including the $1.1 million Uncreweded Surface Vehicle (USV) Enhanced Offshore Fishing Project led by ABCO.  

This project is led by Lunenberg, NS-based ABCO, in partnership with Clearwater Seafoods, also in Lunenberg. With a total project value of $1.1 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $459,200, with the balance of funding coming from project partners. 

The project aims to modernize and improve collection of crucial benthic habitat data to support the sustainability of Canada’s commercial bottom fishing industry using cutting-edge USVs. Thes USVs, equipped with new R2Sonic sensor technology, will be deployed and retrieved during active trawling and dredging operations, improving feasibility and cost effectiveness of data collection. Accessibility of hydrographic surveys and ecosystem data benefits both the fishing industry and the broader ocean ecosystem, improving our understanding of habitats and fishery population dynamics while allowing the industry to further reduce its bottom footprint. 

The project will drive sustainable economic growth in one of Canada’s largest ocean sectors by promoting more efficient and environmentally conscious fishing practices. In addition to supporting commercialization, it will help expand Canada’s technical workforce by training USV pilots, including retired captains, and employing recent graduates for data analysis roles. 

By optimizing dredging operations and fostering job creation across rural Nova Scotia, this project supports not only its immediate partners, but the wider commercial fisheries sector, helping to build a more sustainable and prosperous future for Canada’s ocean economy. 

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy and the projected benefits to Canada here. 

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

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 140 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes 

“This project represents the kind of innovation and collaboration that defines the future of Canada’s ocean economy. By integrating uncrewed surface vessel technology into commercial fishing operations, we’re not only advancing sustainability and efficiency; we’re also creating new economic opportunities and building technical capacity across coastal communities. It’s a strong example of how industry and emerging technologies can come together to drive real impact.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

June 10, 2025 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  
 

(HALIFAX) – Canada’s Ocean Supercluster today announced five new ocean innovation projects worth over $18 million during the H20 Conference in Halifax, including the $7.2 million Microbial Protein for Sustainable Aquaculture Project led by DeNova. 

This new project is set to transform aquaculture feed production with the development of a novel microbial protein – an innovative and sustainable alternative to conventional aquafeed ingredients like fishmeal and soy, which are major contributors to aquaculture’s environmental footprint. 

As aquafeed remains one of the biggest barriers to the growth of sustainable seafood, this project directly addresses a critical challenge in the ocean economy. By advancing responsible food production technologies, the initiative supports the expansion of Canada’s aquaculture industry while reducing environmental impact. 

The project is led by Dartmouth, NS-based DeNova, in partnership with The Verschuren Centre in Sydney, NS, and Neptune Properties in Dartmouth. With a total project value of $7.2 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $2.5 million, with the balance of funding coming from project partners. 

With global demand for sustainable protein rising, this project brings Canada to the forefront of next-generation aquaculture solutions, supporting a resilient, inclusive, and environmentally responsible ocean economy. It also strengthens Canada’s position as a global leader in sustainable aquafeed, while driving economic growth through job creation in biotechnology and feed manufacturing, including an expected nine full time positions. 

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy and the projected benefits to Canada here. 

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

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 140 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes 

“This project is a powerful example of how ocean innovation can solve some of the most pressing challenges in sustainable food production. By advancing a novel microbial protein for aquafeed, the project is not only reducing environmental impact, but creating new economic opportunities, supporting inclusive workforce development, and positioning Canada as a global leader in the future of sustainable aquaculture.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

“The Ocean Supercluster’s continued leadership and investment in transformative ocean innovation is accelerating sustainable solutions and advancing Canada’s blue bioeconomy. We’re grateful for their support in enabling technologies that promote responsible food production and contribute to a more resilient and environmentally sustainable ocean future.” – Brianna Orr Stratton, Founder & CEO, DeNova 

May 22, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(OTTAWA) – Canada’s Ocean Supercluster today announced three new ocean innovation projects worth over $12 million during the Ambition 2035 Summit in Ottawa, including the $2.5 million SafeOcean AI: Transforming Safety and Productivity in the Ocean Sector Project led by Training Works. The SafeOcean AI Project will address two key challenges in the ocean sector: safety and operational productivity, using advanced AI-driven technologies.

To enhance safety in the ocean sector, Training Works will expand their “Internet of Safety” tools, Skilltinuous and FatigueDefence, with the development of a new tool: HazardDefence. Integrating HazardDefence into their suite of safety tools, the new tool will use rapid video monitoring and AI algorithms for real-time hazard detection and intervention. Designed to be adaptable across various ocean environments, the tool will be shaped by feedback from frontline workers to ensure practical, results-driven improvements to safety.

On the productivity front, Alooki will develop an AI-based productivity algorithm to be integrated into their existing optimization platform. This work will focus on streamlining marine operations automations and data-driven insights, improving efficiency and productivity across the ocean sector.

This project is led by St. John’s, NL-based Training Works, in partnership with Alooki in Paradise, NL, DeepSense in Halifax, NS, Qikiqtaaluk Corporation, in Iqaluit, NU, and Sea1 Offshore Canada, in St. John’s, NL. With a total project value of $2.5M, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $1.1M with the balance of funding coming from project partners.

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes

“The Ambition 2035 Summit and the SafeOcean AI project, supported by the Ocean Supercluster, one of our Global Innovation Clusters, align with the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger and more resilient Canada. We are working together toward a more sustainable and prosperous future—one where healthy, thriving ocean ecosystems remain at the heart of our vision for generations to come.” – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

“By leveraging front line feedback from Canadian workers to inform AI applications, projects like this one will not only enable organizations across the ocean sector to operate more reliably and cost-effectively, but it will also showcase made in Canada ocean technology, helping to solidify our position as an ocean nation.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“Safety is crucial to a thriving ocean economy. The SafeOcean AI project builds on our decade of hands-on experience working with frontline workers and organizations in high-risk marine environments. By integrating real-time hazard detection powered by AI, machine learning, and video monitoring, into our Internet of Safety, we are advancing to a new level of intelligent safety and risk management. Combined with our existing tools, FatigueDefence and Skilltinuous, our system is designed to predict risk and trigger timely interventions before accidents occur. This work is about empowering workers, safeguarding lives, and helping organizations operate more safely and effectively across the blue economy.” – Tamara Vatcher, CEO, Training Works

May 22, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(OTTAWA) – Canada’s Ocean Supercluster today announced three new ocean innovation projects worth more than $12 million during the Ambition 2035 Summit in Ottawa, including the $4 million Smart Hook project led by Impossible Metals Canada.

The Smart Hook System revolutionizes subsea untethered vehicle recovery by enabling safe, efficient operations in harsh ocean conditions. The innovative system operates autonomously, reducing reliance on costly, dynamically positioned vessels and risks associated with vehicle recovery at the surface.

This project is led by Collingwood, ON based Impossible Metals Canada, in partnership with SEAMOR Marine of Nanaimo, BC and Enginuity Inc. from Halifax, NS. With a total project value of $4 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $1.2 million with the balance of funding coming from project partners.

Key advancements from this project include autonomous navigation, dynamic engagement mechanisms, and integration with standard vessels, making recovery faster, safer, and more cost-effective. With applications in deep-sea mining, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUV) recovery operations, and crewed submersible recovery, the Smart Hook enhances operational windows and minimizes environmental impact.

By advancing cutting-edge autonomous recovery solutions, this project reinforces Canada’s position as a global leader in AUV and remotely operated vehicle systems and stimulates economic growth in the ocean economy by highlighting innovative technologies developed by Canadian companies.

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes

“The Ambition 2035 Summit and the Smart Hook project, supported by the Ocean Supercluster, one of our Global Innovation Clusters, align with the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger and more resilient Canada. We are working together toward a more sustainable and prosperous future—one where healthy, thriving ocean ecosystems remain at the heart of our vision for generations to come.” – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

“The future of ocean exploration and sustainability depends on bold innovation. The Smart Hook project is a shining example of what’s possible when Canadian ingenuity is applied to global challenges. By pioneering autonomous recovery systems that are safer, cleaner, and more adaptable, we are helping to grow Canada’s ocean economy and reinforcing our leadership in the global marine technology sector.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“Impossible Metals is on a mission to lead the green energy transition by supplying the world with the critical minerals needed. The underwater robotics technology developed by Impossible Metals Canada is both more environmentally friendly and more economic than alternative subsea and terrestrial critical metals collection solutions. This project collaboration with SEAMOR Marine through the support of the Ocean Supercluster enables us to develop critical technology in support of our mission that won’t only enable effective retrieval of our autonomous underwater vehicles, but will support the recovery of subsea vehicles worldwide.” – Jason Gillham, President, Impossible Metals Canada

“At SEAMOR Marine, we’re proud to partner with Impossible Metals in advancing underwater robotics, supported through funding from the Ocean Supercluster. Together, we aim to drive sustainable solutions for critical mineral recovery while reinforcing our shared commitment to ocean preservation and green energy innovation. This partnership goes beyond concept-it’s a strategic collaboration focused on delivering impactful, scalable solutions with real-world applications.” – Inja Ma, CEO, SEAMOR Marine 

May 22, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(OTTAWA) – Canada’s Ocean Supercluster today announced three new ocean innovation projects worth over $12 million during the Ambition 2035 Summit in Ottawa, including the $5.9 million Enhanced Aquaculture Technology for Marine Health Project led by Grieg Seafood Newfoundland, in collaboration with Innovasea.

The project addresses improved fish welfare by using advanced H2S sensors and AI-powered camera systems for real-time monitoring. Project lead Grieg Seafood Newfoundland, in partnership with Innovasea of Bedford, NS, is applying Grieg’s values – open, ambitious, caring – to support employee learning and to contribute to a more sustainable aquaculture industry. With a total project value of $5.9 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $2.3 million, with the balance of funding coming from project partners.

Through implementing innovative monitoring technologies this project will enhance the operational efficiency of aquaculture facilities, leading to higher yields of farmed fish and reduced losses, and helping position Canada as a leader in the aquaculture technology sector.

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes

“The Ambition 2035 Summit and Grieg Seafood’s project, supported by the Ocean Supercluster, one of our Global Innovation Clusters, align with the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger and more resilient Canada. We are working together toward a more sustainable and prosperous future—one where healthy, thriving ocean ecosystems remain at the heart of our vision for generations to come.” – The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions

“Sustainable aquaculture is an important economic area of growth globally that contributes to climate action priorities and commitments under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. By co-investing in innovative technologies that improve fish health, we’re enhancing operational efficiency, creating new revenue streams, contributing to our own food security, and helping feed the world.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster

“At Grieg Seafood, our values – open, ambitious, and caring – guide everything we do. Thanks to our partners, and the support of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, we’re putting our values into action to enhance fish welfare, create learning opportunities for our employees, and contribute valuable information to help support a sustainable aquaculture industry needed for the world’s food security.” – Laura Dwyer, R&D Manager, Grieg Seafood Newfoundland

“At Innovasea, we believe technological breakthroughs are essential in powering Canada to achieve its aquaculture goals. We are proud to support and work with these farms as they continuously innovate and drive sustainable practices that can serve as a model for responsible aquaculture across the globe.” – Tim Stone, VP, Innovasea

For Immediate Release 
April 15, 2025  

(Halifax, NS) – Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced the new, $2.5 million ocean innovation project: Tech Companion AI Search and 3D Visualization Project. This new, collaborative OSC project will help position Canada as a leader in ocean technology, increasing global competitiveness in ocean AI and stimulating economic growth. 

The project is led by Modest Tree, a Nova Scotia company, in partnership with Babcock Canada (Babcock) who has operations in Halifax and is headquartered in Ottawa, ON. With a total project value of $2.5 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing approximately $1 million with the balance coming from project partners. 

Modest Tree’s Tech Companion software integrates data-driven maintenance manuals and workcards with immersive 3D models and training to provide an interactive platform to plan, execute, and track inspection and maintenance work. This project will enable Modest Tree to better tailor Tech Companion features to support ocean industry assets by working with Babcock to supply the necessary data, end-user insights, and operational testing. 

Through this project advancements will be made in: 

Heatmaps for Maintenance Optimization: 
3D Heatmap visualizations of work data enabling a clear view of current and planned work with the ability to quickly filter and review operations over time as well as predict future outcomes. 

Data Visualization & Interaction: 
Enhanced 3D visualization of ocean industry equipment aligned with work data, enabling users to visually engage and analyze that information. Interactive navigation, zoom, highlights, and clickable components provide intuitive access to technical details, improving comprehension and decision-making. 

Marine-Optimized AI Search and Data Connectivity: 
AI-powered search aligns queries with documentation, workcards, 3D Models, and training, delivering precise technical responses and easy access to information that otherwise would be challenging to search and reference. 

By integrating advanced AI technologies into maritime maintenance, the project will create and maintain more than 30 direct jobs in technology development, engineering, and related fields. Additionally, the project will enhance Canada’s global competitiveness in the maritime sector and stimulate economic growth in the ocean economy by showcasing cutting-edge technologies developed by Canadian companies. 

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

About Babcock Canada 
Operating in Canada since 2008, Babcock Canada (Babcock) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Babcock International Group, a global defence, aerospace, and security company. For over 16 years, Babcock has been proud to play a critical role in supporting Canada’s safety and security, delivering engineering and critical support services to defence and civil customers. 

Drawing on decades of global experience, Babcock delivers fully integrated solutions tailored specifically for Canada and its unique environment across the land, marine, and aviation sectors. 

In the marine industry, Babcock is proud to be a trusted partner of the Royal Canadian Navy and an undisputed leader in Canada’s submarine sustainment enterprise, leading the in-service support of the Victoria Class submarines throughout the course of the Victoria In-Service Support Contract. 

Babcock’s work has generated over $3 billion in GDP impact on the Canadian economy and has maintained a total of 2,472 jobs annually, 55% of which are highly skilled. Babcock is committed to establishing partnerships with local universities, colleges, Indigenous communities, and small and medium-sized businesses to support skills development, training, and innovation. 

At Babcock, we are proud to be a trusted partner of the Canadian Armed Forces and Armed Forces of allied nations around the world. Babcock’s mission is guided by the needs of our customers, we ensure their services and assets are equipped to fulfill their customers’ missions wherever, whenever, and however needed. 

Quotes 

“Advanced AI technologies are at the forefront of innovation in the ocean sector in Canada and globally. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is excited to announce the $2.5M Tech Companion Project, which will tailor existing AI technologies to the ocean sector, ensuring the continued development of ocean AI, creating ocean industry jobs, and increasing Canada’s global competitiveness all while prioritizing environmental stewardship.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

“We are pleased to announce this Ocean Supercluster project and to collaborate with Babcock Canada to advance how technical data is accessed and understood in the ocean industry by leveraging AI and immersive 3D technology. By integrating interactive visualization, intelligent search, and heatmap visualizations, we’re enabling faster decision-making, improved efficiency, and greater operational confidence that not only impacts the project partners but the ocean economy in Canada.” – Emily Smits, CEO Modest Tree 

“Babcock Canada is delighted to continue working with Modest Tree alongside the Ocean Supercluster. This partnership and investment demonstrate how the Industrial and Technological Benefits policy can enable small-medium technology enterprises to continue growing capability and capacity in key areas.” – Tony March, CEO, Babcock Canada 

For Immediate Release 
March 26, 2025 

(Vancouver, BC) – Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced three new ocean innovation projects valued at more than $10 million, including the $6 million Digital Ship Predictive Intelligence Project led by Vancouver, BC-based Seaspan Shipyards. This new project will enhance the lifespan, efficiency, and safety of marine vessels through leading-edge AI solutions that provide predictive analytics of vessel performance and maintenance.  

The project is led by Seaspan in partnership with Maya Heat Transfer Technologies in Westmont, QC, and the CSL group in Montreal, QC. With a total value of $6 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster will invest $2.3 million, with the reminder of funding coming from project partners.  

Implementing predictive maintenance for vessels will reduce environmental impacts as well as operating costs, while enhancements using deep learning, reinforcement learning, and generative AI algorithms will improve the reliability and efficiency of ships and marine equipment. These enhancements ensure the long-term sustainability of the maritime sector, and advance Canada’s position as a leader in maritime technology innovation. 

The project’s adaptable and scalable data-centric and digital twin solutions will support private and public fleet management, providing support for legacy and advanced vessels. Project findings will be shared with the marine community to help other SMEs in the industry, building Canadian capabilities and talent. 

Canada’s ocean community has developed a bold, collective goal to grow the country’s ocean economy by 5X to $220B by 2035, and continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions like this one will help us realize this transformative growth potential mapped out through Ambition 2035. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes 

“The Digital Ship Predictive Intelligence Project is an exciting next step in the advancement of the Canadian maritime sector, enabling us to not only sustain this sector, but grow it,” said Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. “By co-investing in this project, we are stimulating economic growth and accelerating innovation in Canada’s ocean sector through the expansion of deep learning and ocean technology more broadly.” 

Building reliable condition and predictive maintenance solutions requires expertise, cooperation, and commitment across Canada’s marine and digital industries. This project brings together an integrated team committed to innovative leadership and bringing together decades of experience in shipbuilding, maintenance and repair, software engineering team and data-driven analytics, and a globally operating fleet. Through this collaboration we strive to position Canada as a leader in maritime safety and sustainability.” – Jennifer Busler, Senior Manager, Innovation, Seaspan Shipyards 

For Immediate Release 
March 26, 2025  

(Vancouver, BC) – Today, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced three new ocean innovation projects valued at more than $10 million, including the $3.8 million Air Sea Ocean Monitoring System (ASOMS) Project. This new, collaborative OSC project will help position Canada as a leader in ocean monitoring. 

The ASOMS project addresses essential gaps in observation capabilities vital for the long-term monitoring of marine protected areas, environmental surveillance for offshore energy installations, and maritime domain awareness. By integrating robotic ocean and aerial observing platforms with AI-enabled sensing technology and energy management solutions, the project delivers a hybrid observation system designed for long endurance and multi-domain ocean monitoring and surveillance. 

The ASOMS solution will yield new capabilities for Canadian end users such as the RCMP, DFO, and commercial companies working in Canadian waters. This potentially includes applications in the Arctic, where the new tools can create high wage jobs and strengthen Indigenous people’s stewardship of local environments through innovative technologies.  

The project will allow the development of new AI-enabled data services that optimize the utility of uncrewed systems in marine monitoring applications, presenting significant new capabilities for maritime environmental monitoring and security applications. This will enable exports of Canadian robotic solutions for the marine industry, stimulating economic growth. 

This project is led by Victoria, BC-based Open Ocean Robotics, in partnership with Seahawk Robotics in Vancouver, BC, ASL Environmental Science Inc. in Saanichton, BC, Rockland Scientific in Victoria, BC, and Glas Ocean Electric in Halifax, NS. With a total project value of $3.8M Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $1.4M with the balance coming from project partners. 

Canada’s ocean community has developed a bold, collective goal to grow the country’s ocean economy by 5X to $220B by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this transformative growth potential mapped out through Ambition 2035. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

Quotes 

“The development of sophisticated ocean robotics for maritime monitoring is crucial to the sustainability of our oceans. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is excited to announce the $3.8M ASOMS Project, which will create new technologies that support ocean industry jobs and increase Canada’s global competitiveness, all while prioritizing environmental sustainability maritime security.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

For Immediate Release 
March 26, 2025  

(Vancouver, BC) – Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced three new ocean innovation projects valued at more than $10 million, including the $330,000 innovation ecosystem-building project called Blue AI: Readiness Assessment for the Blue Economy. This new OSC project will support up to 20 ocean economy companies as they become early adopters of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for ocean and marine businesses.  

The project will bring together AI Adoption Advisors in the field of AI integration to assess the feasibility of implementing AI into businesses in the ocean economy. After assessing the feasibility of AI adoption across various business sizes, geography, and ocean economy subsectors, a report and framework will be developed containing meaningful statistics and aggregate information.  

This project is led by Pacific Canada’s hub for the sustainable blue economy, COAST, and offered through their ocean workforce development and training initiative Blue Pathways. With a total project value of $330,000, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $200,000, with the balance coming from various partners including the BC Government, Coast Capital Savings, and industry partners. 

AI in the ocean economy presents the opportunity to advance Canada’s global market competitiveness, help drive rapid growth potential and support the further scaling of existing and emerging ocean sectors. The project will benefit the ocean economy through the development of an assessment template that can be used to perform internal evaluations for ocean companies exploring early adoption of AI. Further, many of the lessons learned and best practices will be applicable and useful for industries outside the ocean economy, enabling avenues for growth across Canada’s broader economy. 

Through Ambition 2035 and together with Canada’s ocean community, we are bold in our ambition to grow Canada’s ocean economy 5X to $220 billion by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this ambition. Read more about recommendations to help achieve this transformational growth opportunity outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy. 

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

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 120 projects valued at more than $500 million, which will deliver more than 300 new made-in-Canada ocean products, processes, and services to sell to the world.

About COAST 

COAST is Pacific Canada’s hub for the sustainable blue economy. COAST’s mission is to build B.C. into a global leader in the world’s rapidly growing ocean economy, paving the way for new sustainable and export-driven jobs and enterprises. COAST has a membership of individuals, companies, and organizations involved in the region’s ocean economy, and opened British Columbia’s first ocean-focused coworking space, the 7,000 square foot COAST Ocean Innovation Hub, in October 2024. COAST is an initiative of South Island Prosperity Partnership (SIPP), Greater Victoria’s economic development alliance. Learn more at canadacoast.ca. 

Quotes 

“AI is an area of particular strength for Canada. The Blue AI: Readiness Assessment for the Blue Economy project will help us harness that strength, initially work with 20 companies towards AI adoption, providing data, and an approach and template that can be applied across the country to enable even more Canadian ocean companies to adopt and scale their AI capabilities.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster 

“AI is poised to become a central enabler for competitiveness, resilience and growth in the blue economy. COAST’s Blue AI: Readiness Assessment for the Blue Economy project aims to explore the feasibility of infusing AI into ocean businesses and pinpoint opportunities for strategic investment and technological innovation. This project is offered through COAST’s Blue Pathways workforce development initiative and directly supports ocean entrepreneurs in their quest to differentiate themselves in an accelerating, global marketplace.” – Jason Goldsworthy, Executive Director, COAST 

For Immediate Release 
January 16, 2025  

(Halifax, NS) – Today Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) announced three new ocean innovation projects valued at more than $9 million, including the $3.8 million AI-Powered Vessel Automation Toolkit Project. This new, collaborative OSC project will improve fishing operations, increase competitiveness in ocean AI, and enhance existing infrastructure. 

The project aims to deliver an AI-powered vessel automation toolkit, which will transform existing vessels into smart vessels that have autopilot capabilities and improved operational efficiency. Smart vessel applications will include enhanced catch monitoring capabilities through autonomous navigation and fishing route planning, and autonomous location detection of ghost gear in deep water. 

The project is led by Halifax, NS-based Marine Thinking, in partnership with ACEL Power in Vancouver, BC. With a total project value of $3, 873, 528, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $1, 548, 990 with the balance of funding coming from project partners. 

By developing this toolkit and cross-platform control software, Marine Thinking and its partners will improve data visualization and remote control on-board vessels. The solution will enhance maritime safety and support the health and prosperity of Canada’s oceans and coastal communities, while also contributing to the long-term viability of Canada’s fisheries. 

This project will support the growth of Canada’s ocean economy, including in the areas of sustainable fishery, offshore energy, and marine transportation. By lowering the barrier for end-users to access smart autonomous vessels and boosting the adoption of AI technologies in vessel operation, the project will position Canada as a leader in maritime automation technology. 

The global ocean economy is expected to outpace the broader economy by 20 percent by 2030, and Canada’s ocean community has developed a bold, collective goal to grow the country’s ocean economy by 5X to $220B by 2035. Continued investment in the accelerated development and commercialization of globally relevant, made in Canada ocean solutions, including the projects announced today, will help us realize this transformative growth potential mapped out through Ambition 2035. 

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

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 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 

Quotes 

“Projects like these are helping to advance Canada’s ocean economy and materialize the growth potential of the sector. By integrating cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, these projects are improving operational efficiencies, driving innovation and unlocking the full potential of Canada’s vast ocean resources. They are pivotal in supporting the growth and sustainability of the marine, shipping and fisheries industries, among others, ensuring that the ocean economy remains a global leader in both economic growth and environmental responsibility.” – The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry 
 

“With advancing solutions for Artificial Intelligence and automation in vessel operations, Canada has an opportunity to lead the way in the future of marine transport. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is excited to announce the $3.8 million AI Powered Vessel Automation Toolkit project which will provide a practical, smart solution for existing vessels and increase critical monitoring capabilities.” – Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster