PacifiCan funding will boost Vancouver Island's sustainable food economy, fuelling prosperity for coastal regions and Indigenous communities
With its strategic location along the Pacific Ocean, rich marine biodiversity, and advanced research institutions, British Columbia is uniquely positioned to drive innovation in sectors such as aquaculture and marine technology.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $1.1 million in PacifiCan funding for two projects on Vancouver Island that will support sustainable aquaculture practices and boost the competitiveness of B.C.'s seaweed and shellfish producers.
PacifiCan is providing $881,600 to North Island College to establish a Seaweed Innovation Hub (SIH), to advance B.C.'s sustainable seaweed industry. Funding will help SIH create a seaweed seed bank, secure a mobile processing unit, test new seaweed dehydration and food processing technologies, and help small-scale producers improve operations and adopt innovations. With Vancouver Island's rich seaweed biodiversity, skilled workforce, and local Indigenous communities engaged in seaweed business development, the sector is well-positioned for growth.
PacifiCan is also providing $250,000 to the B.C. Shellfish Growers' Association, a non-profit representing shellfish industry stakeholders. This funding will support the Industry Modernization of Practices, Accountability, and Communications Program (IMPACT), which helps small-scale shellfish producers modernize operations with advanced technologies, boost productivity, promote environmental stewardship, and expand further into global markets.
The investments announced today will help advance B.C.'s shellfish and seaweed industries by increasing product value, expanding export opportunities, and creating jobs in British Columbia, including for underrepresented groups like women and Indigenous peoples.
