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Oceans Advance Newsletter – April 29, 2025

From its humble beginnings, the JOT has grown into a respected journal published by the Fisheries and Marine Institute. The JOT’s informative content is online and open access, available to anyone, anywhere, free of charge – and there are no author publishing fees.

Twenty successful years would not have been possible without the support of many people, from the contributors and readers to all levels of editors, reviewers, and of the small yet mighty JOT production team. Cheers to 20 years and here’s to many more!


The winter issue of the Journal of Ocean Technology (JOT) will focus on how Indigenous researchers, technologists, scientists, groups, and communities around the globe use ocean technology for economic growth, resource management, community engagement, and mentoring the next generation of ocean leaders. Ken Paul, member of Wolastoqey Nation at Neqotkuk, located at the Tobique First Nation in New Brunswick, Canada, is on board as guest editor for this issue. 
 
The production team is interested in hearing how technologies and methods are being used across a wide range of ocean-related practices and management efforts, and how these technologies are being integrated into ongoing practices and new initiatives. Submission of peer-reviewed technical papers, essays, and short articles are invited. All content in the JOT is published online in open access format – making it accessible to anyone, anywhere in the world. There are no author publication fees.
 
Important deadlines
Technical paper submissions: July 25. This should be the full paper.
Expressions of interest for essays and short articles: July 25.


The Canadian Centre for Fisheries Innovation (CCFI) is evaluating the need for the establishment of a Canadian Fisheries Innovation Network (CFIN), to bring together ecosystem members in support of Canada’s fisheries and aquaculture industries. 

Areas of focus would concentrate on regional priorities to include innovation, technology adoption, research, use of robotics, automation, use of artificial intelligence to support sustainability, greater efficiency, economic return and competitiveness. In addition, the Network would identify, build, and share knowledge and expertise from across all fish and seafood sectors in Canada that will support sustainability efforts in our coastal and rural communities, while also supporting Canada’s inland fisheries. The Network goal is to support increased output value, full resource utilization though advanced processing, improved efficiency, and eco-sustainability in collaboration with industry players cross Canada.

The proposed governance of CFIN will be representative of four regions of Canada including a Northern, Eastern, Western and Central/Inland fisheries regions.  OMX has been engaged to evaluate the potential off an entity such as the CFIN and estimate its potential socio-economic and environmental impacts. A background on the proposed CFIN is attached.  

A brief survey has been prepared for completion by ecosystem participants, including industry, academic/research institutions, government support agencies, and private sector innovators involved in the fisheries and/or aquaculture sectors. CCFI would appreciate your engagement and feedback. 

Member News

The Port of Argentia has unveiled a heartwarming new initiative to enhance the lives of seniors at the Lions Manor Nursing Home. Through their Door-Wrapping Project, resident room doors have been transformed with creative, vibrant designs that help stimulate memory, ease navigation, and bring a sense of home and dignity to residents.

This community-focused project reflects the Port’s ongoing commitment to meaningful, local impact—and highlights how innovation can create positive change well beyond industry.

Events


The H2O conference offers opportunities to engage with local, national, and international ocean technology industries through exhibits, showcases, panel presentations, workshops, B2B meetings, and more. 

The Industry Showcase is always a highlight of the H2O Conference. Take in the conference programming, learn about new trends in Ocean Technology, and contribute to the conference by showcasing your offerings. Enhance your event exposure by joining the event as a Partner. Varying levels of Partnership Opportunities exist to fit your organizational needs. To learn more, please visit: Partnership Opportunities

Check back regularly for program updates and information: 


WBE Canada’s Supplier Diversity Days are full-day in-person events designed to bring women-owned businesses, corporate and government organizations, partners and champions of supplier diversity together in cities across Canada. Attendees will learn about supplier diversity, economic challenges, and opportunities for women entrepreneurs.
Who Should Attend?

  • Corporate & government professionals interested in supplier diversity
  • Certified & non-certified women-owned businesses
  • Supporters and champions of supplier diversity
  • Hear the latest updates on supplier diversity in Canada
  • Engage in panel discussions on challenges & opportunities in corporate and government supply chains
  • Participate in roundtable networking, where women entrepreneurs can pitch their products/services to buyers

The Gardiner Centre welcomes opportunities to work with members of Newfoundland and Labrador industry and professional associations.  Our flexible training opportunities delivered both in person and live online facilitate learning that suits any schedule or location. In addition to the Open-Enrollment dates below, all courses and programs can be delivered in a customized offering for your organization.

Minimize interpersonal conflict, understand labour relations and improve the overall employee/ employer relationship through positive employee development.

Learn or revisit the basics of business writing and improve your written communication skills. This course is beneficial for managers, supervisors and professionals who want to learn or refresh business writing skills.

For a full list of program offerings, visit their website
Feel free to reach out to Pearce at [email protected] for more information.


The Ocean Technology Council of Nova Scotia (OTCNS), in partnership with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and other Atlantic partners, is recruiting ocean technology companies to participate in a market diversification and business development mission to Asia. 

As global markets shift, there has never been a better time to expand your international business activities. Have you considered the Asian market?

South Korea and Japan are major maritime nations with growing demand for cutting-edge ocean technologies. This mission offers a strategic entry point into two of the most advanced and opportunity-rich economies in the Asia-Pacific region.

Participants will attend KORMARINE 2025 in Busan, South Korea—one of Asia’s top maritime trade shows—with access to a dedicated meeting space at the Canada Pavilion for B2B meetings.

Afterward, the mission continues in Japan with customized B2B meetings tailored to each company’s goals.

$1,500 CAD + HST  |  Space is limited  |  Early registration is encouraged

Opportunities

Bachelor of Commerce (Co-op) Program | Work Term 2 – Round 1

Job competition dates are now available for the B. Comm Fall 2025 work term! If you’re planning to hire a co-op student or have one returning, now’s the time to get organized.

Students from Memorial University’s Bachelor of Commerce (Co-operative) program offer a diverse array of skills and abilities to employers. These individuals can assist employers of all sizes and industries with a variety of management-related tasks, including:

  • Developing and implementing marketing strategies
  • Managing finances and accounts
  • Human resource management
  • Using and developing information systems

These students bring fresh perspectives, up-to-date business knowledge, and a strong work ethic to help your organization thrive.

Job Postings:

  • May 15 | May 22 | May 29
  • (Please submit your posting at least 3 days before your selected date)

Interviews: May 22 – June 5
Ranking Due: June 6
Match Day: June 11
Midterm Break: June 16 – 18
Exams: August 2 – 5
Work Term: September 2 – December 19

Returning student from Winter 2025? Let Joyce Drodge of MUN know – [email protected]

Let’s work together to support the next generation of business talent!


The Government of Canada has announced a comprehensive support package in response to the unjustified U.S. tariffs now impacting trade, supply chains, and jobs on both sides of the border.

From enhanced Employment Insurance (EI) for affected workers to billions in liquidity support for exporters, small businesses, and the agriculture sector, these measures are designed to protect Canadian jobs, keep businesses open, and strengthen North America’s competitiveness during a critical time.

  • $5B Trade Impact Program via EDC
  • $500M in BDC loans for affected sectors
  • New financing through FCC and tax deferrals for businesses
  • Temporary EI enhancements and Work-Sharing flexibility
  • Relief from countermeasures under specific circumstances
  • Support for market diversification and foreign investment protections

This is a must-read for any Canadian company or worker affected by cross-border trade issues.


Despite U.S. tariffs imposed on Canada under the United States (U.S.) International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), Canadian exporters can still benefit from duty‑free access to theU.S., if their goods are Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) compliant.

Being CUSMA compliant means that goods meet the CUSMA rules of origin and qualify for preferential tariff treatment.

  • Over 98% of tariff lines and 99.9% of bilateral trade with the U.S. are eligible for duty‑free access under the CUSMA.
  • Canadian goods must be certified as compliant with the CUSMA rules of origin by the exporter or producer (this means the goods are eligible for preferential tariff treatment), and U.S. importers must claim the preference to benefit from duty‑free treatment. 

For goods imported into the U.S., the final decision on the classification and tariff treatment of a good rests with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

We’re updating key resources in real time to help you navigate the evolving U.S. tariff situation.

The Trade Commissioner Service helps your Canadian business succeed in international markets with export advisory services, funding and accelerator programs. With a presence in more than 160 cities worldwide, we can help you do business with the world.

Subscribe to our mailing list to receive future email notifications.


Oceans Advance and COMPASS are excited to announce the “Set Sail” project! With this project, we aim to raise awareness of careers in the ocean/marine sector through hands on learning and experience and educate youth on choice of careers in the ocean/marine sector, including research, tech, engineering, transportation and environment.

The marine and ocean industries are brimming with potential. Students in this province are eager to make a difference and set sail on a career path in the ocean and marina sectors. The marine and ocean sectors are an essential part of Canada’s economy. We want to encourage youth to find their place.

This spring we will be talking to students throughout NL and tour educational institutions, visit companies for demonstrations on focus areas, host networking events, and perform follow-up evaluation to gauge opportunities. We’re excited to showcase the opportunities available in the marine industry.

If you or your organization would be interested in being involved or you would like some more information, please contact [email protected]


ICTC’s WIL Digital student wage subsidy program offering subsidies of up to $7000 per student returns this year with Summer applications being accepted beginning March 3. 

ICTC’s WIL Digital program returns this summer, providing student wage subsidies of up to $7,000 for employers hiring post-secondary students in digital economy-related roles (e.g., software, digital marketing, and more).

The subsidy covers up to up to $7,000 (70%) for underrepresented students or up to $5,000 (50%) for other eligible student. The program is open to full-time and part-time students in full-time or part-time positions however international students are not eligible.

For more details contact Tim Perron at [email protected] or visit the WIL Digital Website.


The CanExport SMEs program, offered by Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service, helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) expand into new international markets by sharing costs for eligible business development activities. Successful applicants may receive up to $50,000 to support market expansion efforts.

The CanExport SMEs Program will be accepting applications, until May 31, 2025, at 5 pm EDT/6:30 pm NDT, for projects that begin on or after April 1, 2025.

  • To better serve Canadian businesses and manage funding more efficiently, the CanExport SMEs program has made a number of changes to its guidelines, including a greater emphasis on export diversification, changes to eligible expenses, and new requirements for the validation of basic eligibility criteria.
  • A new CanExport Applicant’s Guide will be available when the program is open to help guide applicants through the submission process. It is very important to follow the new guide when applying as program requirements have changed. CanExport SMEs Program: Applicant’s guide

Have news you would like shared in the Oceans Advance Newsletter?
If you have upcoming events, exciting achievements, or news you’d like featured in the next Oceans Advance newsletter, let us know.

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