Nova Scotia: The Deep Tech Destination for Ocean Pioneers

Nova Scotia is a global leader in ocean technology, offering businesses a thriving ecosystem for growth. With more than 300 oceans-related companies, world-renowned research institutions, and billions in annual ocean-sector revenues, the province is at the forefront of advancements in marine robotics, ocean sensing, and subsea technologies.

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Nova Scotia's Industry

In Nova Scotia, the ocean shapes more than just our coastline. Whether we’re harnessing its energy potential, exploring its depths, or leveraging its ability to connect the world, the ocean shapes who we are and how we do business.

Why Nova Scotia?

Located on Canada's east coast, Nova Scotia is a true global hub for ocean technology. While we come by some of it naturally with more than 13,000 km of coastline, we also have the people, the infrastructure and the commitment to advance this thriving industry.

From sensors and subsea communications to AI-driven surveillance and marine defence solutions, Nova Scotia has an innovation-ready ecosystem for ocean technology companies.

Expertise

What gives Nova Scotia the edge?

The province attracts major technology companies from around the globe to locate their business and technology and R&D centres here. Companies including Kongsberg, IBM, Ultra, Lockheed Martin, Thales, and many others choose Nova Scotia to access the most competitive operating costs in North America, hire talented staff from our skilled workforce, leverage a host of government incentives and tap into a talented workforce with unique specializations.

SECTOR SNAPSHOT

COVE

COVE sets the pace

The Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship (COVE), located on Halifax Harbour, is a world-class hub for ocean technology innovation. Home to over 70 organizations, including start-ups, industry leaders, and researchers, COVE fosters collaboration and growth in the ocean sector. Its facilities include specialized labs, office spaces, and access to marine testing areas. By connecting talent, expertise, and resources, COVE accelerates advancements in marine robotics, subsea sensors, and ocean sustainability solutions, driving global innovation.

Incentives, Programs and Services

Payroll Rebate

Invest Nova Scotia

A payroll rebate is a return on a company’s eligible gross payroll, paid out yearly after a company achieves predetermined targets. It’s issued over a set number of years—generally five—and...

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Canada's Ocean Supercluster

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC)

This national, industry-led initiative is designed to accelerate innovation and drive sustainable economic growth in the ocean economy. Headquartered in Halifax, OSC brings together businesses, researchers, and innovators across ocean sectors—such as shipping, aquaculture, offshore energy, and ocean technology—to collaborate on transformative projects. Its goal is to advance ocean-based solutions, improve sustainability, and create high-quality jobs.

Underwater Communication

Beneath the waves

Underwater communication is one of the most complex and fast-evolving areas in ocean technology—and we’re at the forefront. Nova Scotia companies are pioneering next-generation solutions,including Xeos Technologies’ integrated data platforms, MetOcean Telematics’ IoT-enabled defence systems, Ocean Sonics’ real-time acoustic monitoring tools, and Marecomms’ advanced underwater networks for autonomous vehicle swarms.

This industry momentum is matched by research at Dalhousie University, including the UW-STREAM Lab’s breakthroughs in electro-acoustic modems, and developments of acoustic sensing systems that use ocean noise to map and monitor the subsea environment.

Connect with an Expert

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Questions? Looking for more information? Get in touch today—we’d love to talk more about the many reasons you have to choose to do business in Nova Scotia, Canada.