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.
Nova Scotia is perfectly-positioned to take advantage of oceans opportunities. Located on Canada’s East Coast, our strategic location and innovation ecosystem give sector companies everything they need to build or grow dynamic businesses.
An ocean of opportunity
Nova Scotia is a global leader in ocean technology, offering businesses in the sector a thriving ecosystem for innovation and 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.
COVE sets the pace (in knots, of course)
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.
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.
Our oceans expertise attracts the best
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.
Our ecosystem breeds innovation
Dynamic companies are leading research and commercial development of advanced ocean technologies that they manufacture and export to customers worldwide. Nova Scotia is host to companies specializing in robotics and autonomous vehicles, marine communication and navigation, informatics and artificial intelligence, enhanced engineering and environmental services, underwater acoustics, and sensors and instrumentation.
Nova Scotia is home to the highest number of ocean technology companies in Canada.
A breadth of products and services
Nova Scotia’s ocean technology industry is diverse and produces innovative products and services for:
- Marine Defence & Security
- Marine Transportation
- Fisheries & Aquaculture
- Energy
- Ocean Science
