Update from OSC – COVID-19 Measures – Monday, May 4, 2020

Across the country we continue to see the incredible efforts of frontline workers in the response to COVID-19. While there continues to be unknowns, we understand there is evidence that the steps we are all taking to keep each other healthy and safe are also helping in this effort. Last week the Prime Minister released a joint statement from First Ministers on restarting the economy and the criteria and measures necessary to do so. Provinces are rolling out phased approaches to reopening the economy over time, knowing there is an important road to economic recovery ahead of us. To discuss economic impacts and recovery post-COVID-19, I participated on a panel discussion last week with the other Supercluster CEOs, hosted by Research Money. From an ocean perspective it was important to share insights on the widespread impacts in offshore oil and gas, those in the fishery and aquaculture, and all ocean industries, but also the continued focus on OSC projects and the growing pipeline of exciting new project ideas, as well as increased membership from across the country. For more on this discussion, Research Money will be providing a summary in their publication, Innovation This Week, on May 6.

 

As we look to ocean opportunities to help drive Canada’s economic recovery post COVID-19, advancing as many strong projects as possible has never been more important. To help facilitate this, last week we announced new options to support our members and provide financial relief. These options include reduced innovation and administration contribution for industry members, contributions of up to $50,000 for eligible project development costs, and project advances. More information on these new options for members can be found in the video below:

 

In May there will be continued opportunities for virtual engagement, including our OSC member event on May 27 where technology will enable us to participate in an interactive afternoon including a keynote, virtual networking, industry booths, and a fireside chat. Members have been asked to save the date with details on the agenda to come shortly. For those who aren’t yet members but would like to join the Ocean Supercluster and attend this event, please contact membership@oceansupercluster.ca. Also, coming up this week on May 7 is the latest free Ocean Startup Project webinar on ocean tech sustainability, commercialization, and research with special guest Dr. Kate Moran.

 

OSC members and partners, stay connected, healthy, and safe. If there is anything the Ocean Supercluster can do to further support you, our team is here to help.

 

Kendra MacDonald

CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster