Month: August 2022

econext uncovering and supporting opportunities to create value from waste streams in Newfoundland and Labrador

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
August 31, 2022

econext is dedicating resources, thanks to $156,200 in funding from the Multi-Materials Stewardship Board (MMSB), to help find opportunities to reduce, reuse, repurpose, or recycle industrial waste in Newfoundland and Labrador.

“Finding value in industrial waste in our province has emerged as an important area of activity for us, which we are able to explore further now thanks to funding from MMSB,” says Kieran Hanley, CEO of econext.

Hanley says that the province’s forestry, agriculture, fisheries, and aquaculture industries create waste materials which are currently going to landfill. “If we can divert some of this waste from our landfills, then we can help industry become more competitive, create new business opportunities for SMEs, extend the life of our waste management infrastructure, and help the environment. It’s a win-win.”

Hanley says that in some cases technologies and processes exist that can help solve these challenges, but the rural and remote nature of many of the province’s industrial activities makes it difficult to achieve economies of scale.

“There is an opportunity for us to be innovative and to create new solutions – solutions that we can then bring to the rest of the world because we aren’t the only place in the world that faces these kinds of challenges,” says Hanley.

Hanley says that Newfoundland and Labrador has extraordinary research expertise within Memorial University and the College of the North Atlantic to help develop solutions, businesses that are keen to get involved, and a thriving startup community.

“We believe that the missing piece here has been the coordination of activity – matching specific challenges with those that are inclined to try to provide solutions… and then connecting all involved with the programming and supports that are available to them to move forward their ideas” says Hanley. “econext is now able to play that role, and we are very excited to start working with our members and partners to solve some of these challenges.”

Those with an interest in this work are encouraged to contact Heather Ward, econext’s new Business Development Officer.

“We are thrilled to welcome Heather to our team,” says Hanley. “She brings a skillset and experience with her that we know will help us make this initiative a success.”


econext is an association of businesses that accelerates clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador, working on behalf of over 200 members to foster environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

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Media Contact:
Kieran Hanley
CEO
kieran@econext.ca

Caribbean Fall Trade Mission | November 21-25, 2022

Posted on by kieran

econext, in partnership with the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Department of Industry, Energy, and Technology (IET), is continuing its work assisting firms in the investigation of and pursuit of international business opportunities in the Caribbean region, with particular focus on the Green and Blue Economies.

Registration will be closing September 16, 2022 for the Fall mission to the Caribbean region with an intent to focus travel primarily around the business week of November 21-25, 2022.

Each delegate firm/organization may select to receive support services in up to two markets.

What's Included

Participants in this trade mission will receive:

  • Matchmaking and Mission Support provided by Amber Mackereth Consulting
  • Hotel Block/Group Rate*
  • Airport Transfers In-Market
  • Networking Reception(s)*
  • Ground Transportation to Off-Site Meetings
  • In-market Debriefs/Troubleshooting Sessions*
  • Mission Follow-Up Services/After-Care
  • Travel Stipend: Delegates are responsible for their own travel costs. However, a travel subsidy from IET may be available for eligible NL participants.

*in anchor markets/markets with sufficient delegate presence

Interested in participating in the mission to do your own follow-up meetings? Consider registration as an Associate Delegate!

Contact abbie@econext.ca to register as an Associate Delegate

Eligibility

To register for the Fall mission, companies must meet the following criteria:

  • Clear financial standing with econext and its funding partners ACOA and IET
  • Completion of registration form and mission profile
  • Confirmed payment of registration fee – $600.00 + HST for Full Delegate | $200.00 + HST for Associate Delegate
  • Demonstrated export readiness/market research
  • Confirmation of flight itinerary by October 7, 2022.

It is highly recommended that firms considering this trade mission have completed preliminary market analysis/research.

COVID-19 Considerations

The guidelines put in place by the Government of Canada as identified under Global Affairs Canada Travel Advisory and Advice must be adhered to including any other travel restrictions and protocols that may apply: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories

Eligible Markets: While target markets are customizable, destinations will only be considered eligible when the travel advisory is set at risk level one or two.

Companies will be expected to exercise due diligence when selecting markets and planning travel.
Public health guidance including mask mandates and entry/exit requirements will vary between jurisdictions.
econext and its partners assume no responsibility, in whole or in part, for delegate travel complications, delays, or interruptions including those related to health restrictions.

Delegates are strongly encouraged to consult with their travel insurance providers prior to travel.

The following links provide additional information related to international travel. Please refer to the Government of Canada’s links for the latest travel restrictions, exemptions, and advice:

FAQ

FAQ

What are the target markets for this mission?

Our missions are customizable! We believe that each delegate should select markets that make sense based on your own objectives and market research instead. Receptions, briefing sessions, etc. will take place in “anchor markets”, or markets seeing significant delegate presence.

What happens if public health guidance changes regarding non-essential travel?

Should econext decide that travel to the region is no longer advisable prior to the creation of mission meeting programs, the mission may be postponed.

If travel restrictions change after matchmaking has begun, the mission may pivot to a virtual format. It takes considerable time and effort to create and confirm tailored meeting programs, and delegates will be expected to devote similar attention and effort to the execution of a virtual program if need be.

Registration

Click Here to Register!

Registration deadline for this mission is September 16, 2022, however early registration is encouraged!

*Please note that there are a limited number of spaces available for this opportunity and that meeting the minimum eligibility criteria does not guarantee registration.*



If you have any questions about the econext Fall Mission, Please Contact Abbie at abbie@econext.ca.

ASL Energy

Posted on by kieran

At the ASL Family of Companies, we are driven by a profound vision. We envision a future where we not only recognize but deeply honour the invaluable contributions of Indigenous communities. This vision is rooted in fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and progress. As pioneers in our industry, the ASL Family of Companies is steadfastly committed to elevating efficiency and nurturing profound relationships with all stakeholders. Together, we are poised to cultivate a sustainable and thriving ecosystem that serves as a source of benefit for our communities, our people, and the global landscape.

ASL Energy is at the forefront of delivering access solutions through the use of cutting-edge composite and wood matting products, complemented by our local expertise, logistical mastery, and technical prowess. We offer a comprehensive range of project management and consulting services to clients within the global aerospace and defense sectors, as well as the renewable and conventional energy extraction industries. Notably, ASL Energy is a proudly certified Aboriginal-owned business.

At ASL Innovations, we are actively shaping the future with the creation of a modular, deployable Composite Airport System. This revolutionizing innovation ensures safe and secure access to remote regions not only in Canada but also across the globe.

The ASL Family of Companies is headquartered in the vibrant city of St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Energy NL & econext Welcome International Renewable Energy Agreement

Posted on by kieran

(St. John’s, NL – August, 23, 2022) Energy NL and econext welcome the agreement signed today by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz as a signal to the world that Newfoundland and Labrador can help supply global energy demands.

“I was proud to represent members of Energy NL today in Stephenville as the Prime Minister and Chancellor signed the Canada-Germany Hydrogen Accord between our two nations. Newfoundland and Labrador has an abundant supply of energy that can meet global demand, and do so with low-carbon and renewable energy. Being joined by Kieran Hanley, CEO of econext, to share this day was an exceptional demonstration of our ongoing collaboration and desire to support our members and produce world-class energy products. I look forward to the continued work to bring the principles of this memorandum of understanding to fruition, and the many benefits it will bring our members, province, country, and indeed the world.”
Charlene Johnson, Energy NL CEO

Photo Courtesy @FureyAndrew

Today, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Stephenville, Newfoundland and Labrador, where they signed the Canada-German Hydrogen Accord to cooperate on renewable energy, specifically wind-to-hydrogen projects, to help meet the energy needs of Germany. The MOU is an important step in Newfoundland and Labrador providing its vast renewable energy resources to Europe and beyond.

“Through discussion papers, strategic research, policy and regulatory guidance, stakeholder engagement, and more – econext and Energy NL have been working diligently to help define the world class hydrogen production potential that exists within Newfoundland and Labrador. We are thrilled that these opportunities are gaining international interest, and we look forward to working with our partners in this province, Canada, and Germany to help realize them. Newfoundland and Labrador is well positioned to make a significant contribution to the world’s pursuit of net zero.”
Kieran Hanley, econext CEO

Energy NL represents approximately 460 member organizations worldwide which are involved in the energy sector. Members are active in all areas of the supply and service sector and include a diverse representation of businesses that range from offshore supply vessels and helicopters, carbon reduction and sustainable technologies, health and safety equipment and training, engineering solutions and fabricators to law firms and human resource agencies.

econext is an association of businesses that accelerates clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador, working on behalf of over 200 members to foster environmentally sustainable economic development.

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Media contacts:

Andrea Nolan
Communications, Energy NL
anolan@EnergyNL.ca

Kieran Hanley
CEO, econext
kieran@econext.ca

GEMTEC Consulting Engineers and Scientists Limited

Posted on by kieran

Since 1986, GEMTEC has grown from a small geotechnical engineering, materials testing, and environmental engineering firm into a leading multidisciplinary company with offices and CCIL-certified laboratories in Ontario, Quebec, and across Atlantic Canada. Employee-owned with more than 275 engineers, scientists, technical personnel, and support staff, GEMTEC is founded on the solid technical expertise and experience of our highly educated and skilled specialists. For over 30 years, we have served our clients and the public interest with honesty and respect, while providing cost-effective and innovative solutions.

GEMTEC is built on a solid foundation of experience, knowledge, and integrity. Build on GEMTEC.

econext’s Fall Mission to the Caribbean is taking place the week of November 21-25

Posted on by kieran

Click here to learn more!

econext partners with the Ocean Startup Project to stimulate clean growth innovation in Newfoundland and Labrador

Posted on by kieran

For Immediate Release
August 16, 2022

St. John’s (NL) – econext is working with the Ocean Startup Project to highlight industry challenges related to Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean growth economy.

The partnership is part of the Ocean Startup Challenge which aims to uncover and support early stage entrepreneurial ideas or technologies in the oceans sector. The Ocean Startup Challenge will award approximately $750,000 to founders and teams across the country. In addition to the funding, winners will receive ocean-specific programming, mentorship, one-on-one sessions with Executives-in-Residence and industry experts, networking opportunities and more.

“Our province is home to a world class cleantech cluster, with much of our technology being oceans focused,” said Kieran Hanley, CEO at econext. “It is important to recognize and build on these strengths to help solve the problems that will help fight climate change and grow our green and blue economies.” Hanley said that partnering with the Ocean Startup Project to present Innovation Spotlights will help draw attention to opportunities particularly relevant in the Newfoundland and Labrador context.

Innovation Spotlights aim to inspire and encourage prospective entrepreneurs to develop cutting-edge technologies and solve real-world problems the ocean sector is facing. These Innovation Spotlights are areas where Canadian-based innovators can achieve significant wins based on capability, natural assets and skillset, while driving change within the industry that is more sustainable and efficient.

“We are seeing really strong momentum in Canada’s ocean startup ecosystem with net-new entrepreneurs, more research being commercialized and new ocean hubs being created to foster ocean technology,” said Donald Grant, Executive Director at the Ocean Startup Project. “What we know in Canada is that there is a deep, inherent knowledge of the ocean, world-class research occurring and an awakening appetite for sustainable, innovative solutions – and that is what we are intending to leverage through the Ocean Startup Challenge and Innovation Spotlights.”

The partnership is highlighting three industry challenges, including:

  • The development of a more reliable and lower-cost technology and/or process to monitor and manage the subsea assets of clean energy infrastructure that will withstand the challenges presented by the North Atlantic (e.g., icebergs, geology, weather conditions). More Info
  • The development of a technology and/or process that allows ports to maximize the role that they can play in electricity supply and demand management to the benefit of electricity grids. More Info
  • The development of a technology and/or process that allows for finding value in or alternative disposal methods for plastic wastes associated with aquaculture operations. More Info

Hanley said that the Innovation Spotlights were designed to align with emerging clean growth opportunities in the province, as well as with environmental challenges it is already facing. “The solutions that we develop right here in Newfoundland and Labrador can be exported and applied worldwide; we hope to spark the interest of creative and innovative minds here in this province by putting these forward,” Hanley said.

More information on the Ocean Startup Challenge and Innovation Spotlights can be found at https://oceanstartupproject.ca/challenge/. Applications for the 2022 Ocean Startup Challenge are open until September 1, 2022 at 11:59pm ADT.

econext is an association of businesses that accelerates clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador, working on behalf of over 200 members to foster environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

The Ocean Startup Project inspires, initiates and invests, making Canada the best place in the world to start and grow an ocean venture. The project team creates and delivers activities to support ideation through commercialization, for innovators and entrepreneurs from industry to academia. The Ocean Startup Project offerings complement existing industry accelerators, incubators and other support organizations across Canada’s world-class innovation ecosystem. Together with our partners – Creative Destruction Lab (CDL), Genesis Centre, Innovacorp, New Brunswick Innovation Foundation, PEI BioAlliance, Springboard Atlantic, Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies (COAST), and Technopole Maritime du Québec (TMQ) – the Ocean Startup Project is accelerating how homegrown startups get their technologies to market and attract international companies to Canada’s shores.

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Media Contacts:

Kieran Hanley
CEO
kieran@econext.ca

Laurie Snell
Director of Marketing and Communications, Ocean Startup Project
lsnell@oceanstartupproject.ca

CANCarib Climate Smart Opportunities Summit – Doing Business Bootcamp

Posted on by kieran

The High Commission of Canada in Jamaica is hosting the inaugural CANCarib Climate Smart Opportunities Summit (CCSOS), a high-level (hybrid) business initiative for Canadian companies, targeting the portfolio of cleantech and associated infrastructure projects in Jamaica. The CCSOS has three (3) components, zeroing in on facilitation of eligible/interested TCS clients with sectoral and market capacity. The components are as follows:

Part I: Opportunities Roundtable – July 6, 2022 – 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Part II: Doing Business Boot-Camp – September 20, 2022

  • This virtual session is intended to provide a full orientation on doing business in Jamaica, to equip Canadian companies with information, processes, tools and tips, the legal process, business development, potential local partners, local project financing/banking, licenses/permits, work permits, etc. when doing business in Jamaica. Presenters will include local officials and experts, facilitated by the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) at the High Commission of Canada in Kingston, Jamaica.

Part III: Business-2-Business Forum – October 20, 2022

Learn more and register

North Atlantic

Posted on by kieran

From its early beginnings as a petroleum company to today, a province-wide leader in retail gas and convenience, residential, commercial, and wholesale fuels, North Atlantic has called Newfoundland and Labrador home for over 30 years. We’re proud to be the leading fuel provider in the province and part of the transition to a low carbon future. We are committed to lowering vehicle emissions and our collective environmental impact through low carbon fuel and alternative energy solutions.

Become a Registered Energy Advisor Today!

Posted on by kieran