Government of Canada invests $3.5 million to drive innovation and economic growth on Vancouver Island
PacifiCan funding will help eight organizations from Victoria to Alert Bay expand operations, reach new markets and create quality jobs
September 5, 2024 – Victoria, British Columbia – PacifiCan
Amazing things are happening on Vancouver Island, a region known for both its stunning natural attractions and world-class innovations. From technology to tourism, local innovators and entrepreneurs across industries are coming together to build a strong regional economy. PacifiCan shares their ambition and is committed to partnering with community leaders in British Columbia to realize their vision.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced $3.5 million in PacifiCan funding for eight Vancouver Island-based organizations to advance innovation, attract visitors, and boost the region’s leadership in areas such as ocean technology and Indigenous tourism.
Minister Sajjan made the announcement while visiting Open Ocean Robotics, a marine robotic vehicle company receiving $800,000 in PacifiCan funding. This investment will help the company scale-up production of its Uncrewed Surface Vehicles, which are solar-powered, autonomous boats that provide real-time ocean information.
Open Ocean’s technology helps researchers monitor ocean conditions and track marine life in challenging environments, making it safer, easier and more affordable to protect our oceans. PacifiCan funding will allow the company to expand operations and access new markets, create jobs and elevate Vancouver Island as a hub for marine solutions and environmental stewardship. This funding comes from PacifiCan’s Business Scale-up and Productivity (BSP) program.
Other organizations receiving a total of $1.7 million in funding through PacifiCan’s BSP and Jobs and Growth Fund are Fluorescent Design, Industrial Plankton and Namgis Business Development Corporation.
Today’s announcement also includes almost $1 million in support for four local organizations through PacifiCan’s Tourism Growth Program. From new sports hubs to vibrant Indigenous arts and culture experiences, creating unforgettable tourism attractions is important to Vancouver Island’s economy and long-term prosperity. These investments will create enduring benefits across the province and grow Vancouver Island as a destination of choice.
More details about the projects and organizations receiving funding can be found in the backgrounder.