Month: November 2025

RFP – Clean Careers Course Media Development

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Objective

econext, a non-profit association working to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), is seeking the services of a qualified vendor to build interactive and engaging online course modules with the following features: videos, case studies, presentations, and evaluation tailored for job seekers pursuing careers in Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing green economy. This course builds awareness, strengthens career readiness, and equips participants with practical, industry-aligned career skills. The goal is to create a learning experience that is not just informative but interactive, relatable, and structured to keep learners engaged.

Scope of Work

The vendor will be provided with content (text) for three (3) courses, including but not limited to:

  • Module 1: Power-Up Your Brand
  • Module 2: Grow Your Network
  • Module 3: Accelerate Your Interview Skills

The vendor will not be expected to be a subject matter expert in these areas, but rather an expert in transforming provided content into interactive and engaging online course modules for specific audiences.

The purpose of the course is to equip job seekers with career skills, making them job-ready and increasing their chances of landing jobs within the green economy in NL.

Deliverables:

  1. Take the provided written content for three (3) modules and propose an approach to the client for the development of  micro-learning (bite-sized) modules, which include videos, case studies, presentations, and evaluation elements that are engaging and interactive
  2. Incorporating feedback from the client, develop the course modules
  3. Upload the course content onto econext’s Learning Management System (LMS)

For full details, please download the RFP below.

The deadline for proposals is 5:00 PM NST December 10, 2025. The electronic copy of submissions should be in DOC and/or PDF format, and sent to Ogaga Johnson, econext’s Director of Workforce Development, via email at ogaga@econext.ca. Questions from interested applicants can be directed to the same address.

Download RFP

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

Question: What Learning Management System are you currently using (or plan to use) for this project?

Answer: We are currently using Thinkific for the LMS.

Q: Does econext have a desired completion date (month/quarter)?

A: econext is motivated to complete this work as time-efficiently as possible

Q: Does econext have a preference on the technology platform used to create the training videos?

A: No preference, as long as it’s compatible with our LMS and meets the criteria; high-quality and dynamic videos creatively produced to make the education exciting, interactive, and engaging 

Q: Should the budget include estimated costs of professional services and the technology needed to produce the videos? Or professional services only?

A: The budget should include the full cost to deliver the project scope of work and deliverables

Q: Does econext have the written content for the three modules (or a sample) that can be shared?

A: econext will provide written course content (approximately 40 pages with 3 modules) to the selected vendor

Q: I cannot provide images of and/or links to similar products/content developed. Would econext accept client/ work references?

A: As long as the references are work developed by the respondent or that the respondent was part of developing

econext insights: Marine Transportation Decarbonization – Technology and Training Priorities

Posted on by kieran

Join us as we present recently released data on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions sources in Newfoundland and Labrador’s marine transportation sector. We will outline best available data relating to:

  • Tankers
  • Supply ships
  • Cruise ships
  • Fishing vessels
  • Ferries
  • and more!

Marine transportation is responsible for ~11% of Newfoundland and Labrador’s total GHGs. The achievement of net zero by the year 2050 depends on our ability to develop and implement new decarbonization solutions – from the use of low-carbon or clean fuels to the implementation of battery/electric technologies.

Access to this new data will allow us to better understand where our province’s efforts are best placed as we prioritize the research, development, and adoption of new technologies – and develop training and professional development programs in support.

Date: December 12, 2025
Time: 10:00am NST
Location: Online
Price: Free!

View the Recording!

With support from:

Job Opportunity: Marketing and Communications Lead

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Location: St. John’s, NL
Type: 2-year contract with possibility of extension
Salary Range: $55,000 – $64,000

Background

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities. econext has been working for more than 30 years on behalf of its 200 members to support environmentally sustainable economic development across many sectors.

econext is seeking a Marketing and Communications Lead to join its team at 235 Water Street in St. John’s, NL.

Job Description

econext’s Marketing and Communications Lead is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to enhance the organization’s profile and engagement through various communication channels.

Specific responsibilities include:

Communications

  • Develop communications plans to achieve organizational goals and objectives
  • Develop messaging and materials for multiple platforms
  • Media relations

Content Development

  • Collaborate with internal teams to collect content for stories and announcements
  • Lead the creation of marketing assets to support initiatives and events
  • Write and edit content for organizational channels and materials, including the website, newsletters, news releases, etc.
  • Produce newsletters showcasing member achievements, sector news, and upcoming econext programs and activities
  • Coordinate with external vendors to develop marketing communications content

Social Media and Digital Presence

  • Plan and execute a comprehensive social media strategy across all platforms
  • Create and post original multimedia content, ensuring alignment with organizational goals
  • Draft and schedule platform-specific copy tailored to target audiences

Design and Branding

  • Develop brand standards
  • Develop visually appealing promotional materials and graphics
  • Ensure brand consistency across all communication channels and materials

Event Marketing

  • Coordinate promotional efforts for events, including pre-event planning and onsite communications
  • Liaise with external stakeholders and vendors to amplify events

Tracking and Reporting

  • Monitor and report on key marketing and communications performance indicators, including audience engagement, subscription growth, and campaign effectiveness
  • Use analytics tools to evaluate the success of initiatives and recommend improvements based on data

Additional Duties

  • Contribute to other organizational initiatives as required

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Business, Marketing or Public Relations) or equivalent experience
  • 2+ years of experience working in marketing and/or communications in a professional setting
  • Solid understanding of social media channels and tools from a business perspective
  • Experience with social media scheduling tools (e.g., HeyOrca, Hootsuite)
  • Ability to work independently and to take the initiative to self-start projects
  • Creative approach to work with a willingness to try new approaches
  • Proven communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to multi-task
  • Experience with web content management systems (CMS)
  • Basic to intermediate skills in graphic design applications (e.g., Canva, Adobe Suite) would be considered an asset
  • Experience with photography/video editing would be considered an asset
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (i.e., Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro) would be considered an asset
  • Skills and/or experience in newsletter creation and audience management (e.g., Mailchimp) would be considered an asset

Apply

econext offers a competitive benefits package and its staff work from a modern co-working environment in downtown St. John’s. To apply, please send a resumé or CV with a cover letter (in one document) to hiring@econext.ca with the subject line “Application – Marketing Communications Lead.” The deadline for submitting an application is 5 p.m. NST on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025.

econext is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a work environment that supports, inspires, and respects all individuals, and in which personnel processes are merit-based and applied without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, gender identity, marital status, disability, national or ethnic origin, military service status, citizenship, or other protected characteristics.

Scale Up Hub Benelux: Program Information Webinar

Posted on by kieran

Accelerate. Land. Expand. From Atlantic Canada to Europe — Benelux is your launchpad.

The Scale Up Hub Benelux program will help small to medium-sized businesses (SMEs) throughout Atlantic Canada unlock new partnerships, gain market access, and position themselves for long-term growth across the European Union (EU), using the Benelux region (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg) as their launchpad for market expansion and trade diversification.

Program supports will include:

  • Strategic market entry services
  • Market activation & lead generation
  • Investment access & capital support
  • Landing pad & operational hub

This webinar is for SMEs in Atlantic Canada to learn and ask questions about the upcoming program. For more information about Scale Up Hub Benelux, visit the program webpage at: https://econext.ca/scale-up-hub-benelux/.

Date: November 27, 2025
Time: 1:30-2:30 AST / 2:00-3:00 NST
Location: Online

Click To Register

This project is supported by the Government of Canada and the four Atlantic Provinces through the Atlantic Trade Investment and Growth Agreement.

econext is leading the Program in collaboration with the Government of Canada, the governments of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, and tech NL.

Discussion Paper: Sustainable Film and Television Production in Newfoundland and Labrador

Posted on by kieran

A new report led by econext, in partnership with PictureNL and local stakeholders in the film and television community, is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future for the industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. The environmental scan, the first of its kind in the region, establishes a baseline understanding of the sector’s environmental performance and identifies opportunities for cleaner, more efficient film production practices.

The study was informed by a series of workshops, set visits, and individual consultations with producers, crew members, suppliers, and service providers. Through these conversations, econext developed a report that captures how the local industry operates and where practical improvements can make the most impact.

The report outlines several recommendations designed to help productions and suppliers take incremental, but meaningful, steps toward sustainability. Among the recommendations are the following:

  • Phasing out single-use items in catering and craft services, and diverting organic waste
  • Identifying rental vehicle supplier options to include hybrid and zero-emission vehicles
  • Collaborating with property owners to improve energy efficiency at production sites
  • Exploring partnerships for zero-emissions and low-carbon power generation for production base camps and on-location filming

These actions will help film productions meet the environmental requirements of major funders and distributors and also enhance the province’s ability to attract large-scale projects from international studios such as Netflix, Apple and Disney.

Click to Download the Report

New report sets path for a more sustainable film and television industry in Newfoundland and Labrador

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 13, 2025

St. John’s, NL — A new report led by econext, in partnership with PictureNL and local stakeholders in the film and television community, is laying the groundwork for a more sustainable future for the industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. The environmental scan, the first of its kind in the region, establishes a baseline understanding of the sector’s environmental performance and identifies opportunities for cleaner, more efficient film production practices.

The study was informed by a series of workshops, set visits, and individual consultations with producers, crew members, suppliers, and service providers. Through these conversations, econext developed a report that captures how the local industry operates and where practical improvements can make the most impact.

econext participates in a panel at PictureNL’s Sustainable Production Day. Pictured: Ogaga Johnson, econext. Chris House, TakeCHARGE, Patrick Foran, Government of NL. Audrey Parnell, econext.

“As Newfoundland and Labrador’s film and television industry grows, the demand for environmentally sustainable practices increases,” said Laura Barron, CEO, econext. “Working with PictureNL, we looked at how to help our local industry achieve long-term cost savings, attract service production and domestic and international investment, minimize the environmental impact of the industry, and meet international standards and expectations for film production sustainability. At econext, one of our focus areas is helping businesses reduce their environmental impact – including greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency and waste diversion – so this project was a good fit.”

The report outlines several recommendations designed to help productions and suppliers take incremental, but meaningful, steps toward sustainability. Among the recommendations are the following:

  • Phasing out single-use items in catering and craft services, and diverting organic waste
  • Identifying rental vehicle supplier options to include hybrid and zero-emission vehicles
  • Collaborating with property owners to improve energy efficiency at production sites
  • Exploring partnerships for zero-emissions and low-carbon power generation for production base camps and on-location filming

These actions will help film productions meet the environmental requirements of major funders and distributors and also enhance the province’s ability to attract large-scale projects from international studios such as Netflix, Apple and Disney.

“The screen industry in Newfoundland and Labrador is experiencing remarkable growth and recently reached a major milestone of $1 billion in production activity since the inception of our organisation,” said Laura Churchill, Chief Executive Officer with PictureNL. “Maintaining that momentum means being ready for a future where sustainability is an important aspect of every production decision. Our ability to compete globally depends on both our creative talent and responsible practices.”

The Film and Television Sustainability Environmental Scan offers a clear starting point for continued progress. By identifying realistic, locally informed steps, the report supports an industry that is both competitive and environmentally responsible, and ready to meet the expectations of the global marketplace.

“Newfoundland and Labrador’s film community continues to grow in ways that reflect our creativity and the inspiration we derive from the place we call home,” said Barron. “Partnerships such as this one can help drive sustainable film development that will create opportunities for local businesses and also take good care of the environment that helps make our stories unique. We’re proud to be part of this initiative, and thank PictureNL for their collaboration.”

Click to Download the Report

About econext 

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities. econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

About PictureNL 

PictureNL (formerly Newfoundland & Labrador Film Development Corporation – NLFDC) was established in 1997 as a Crown corporation of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation (TCAR) is the sole shareholder of the corporation. PictureNL was created to grow the local screen industries of the province, both through the creation of local film and television productions for national and international markets, and as a destination for service productions to shoot in Newfoundland and Labrador locations. PictureNL is the front line for local screen industries as well as potential national and international partners interested in investing in the province through film and television productions.

— 30 —

Media Contacts

Chelsie Cake
econext
709.979.0389
cake@econext.ca

Laura Churchill
PictureNL
709.738.3423
laura@picturenl.ca

Green Marine International

Posted on by Colin Heffernan

Incorporated in May 2024, Green Marine International is the governance structure overseeing the environmental certification programs in North America, Europe and, as of 2025, in Australia, Mexico and the Caribbean. Founded in 2007, the Green Marine program in North America is the result of a voluntary effort by the shipping industry to go beyond regulations. More than 185 ship owners, ports, terminals and shipyards are participating in the program. Launched in 2020, Green Marine Europe currently has more than 30 ship owners, representing a large and diverse maritime fleet of more than 500 vessels, and five major shipyards in the program.

econext wins Innovation Award at 2025 takeCHARGE Luminary Awards

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

The 7th annual takeCHARGE Luminary Awards took place on October 22, celebrating companies, organizations, communities, and individuals across Newfoundland and Labrador making great strides in energy efficiency.

econext’s Green Career Development & Training Lead, Timilehin Oguntuyaki, accepted the Innovation Award on behalf of the econext team for the Ideathon initiative. The Innovation Award recognizes organizations whose energy efficiency projects or services have led to measurable energy savings and broader environmental impact.

The Ideathon program empowers students to learn about the green economy and develop innovative ideas for a more sustainable future. Students gain hands-on experience developing ideas with sustainability at the core, participating in workshops, mentorship opportunities, and networking sessions that work towards solving challenges like energy efficiency. This work reflects econext’s ongoing work to support the green economy across the province and represent a wide array of diverse perspectives for change. You can learn more about the Ideathon by reading about the latest event here.

The awards event was held at the Emera Innovation Exchange, where the takeCHARGE team gathered with award recipients both in person and online.

More information on the takeCHARGE Luminary Awards can be found here.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit association with a mission to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador by: (1) stimulating research, development, and innovation; (2) preparing its workforce for a greening economy; and (3) acting as a catalyst for climate change action within its industries, businesses, and communities.

econext has been working for over 30 years on behalf of its members across many sectors to support environmentally sustainable economic development. More information can be found at https://econext.ca.

Accessible AI, Collaborative Action and Smarter Ocean Solutions: The Building Bridges Community of Practice

Posted on by Colin Heffernan


Across Canada’s ocean sector, data is growing faster than teams can manage it. While Artificial Intelligence is being touted as a solution, it’s hard to know how to make use of it when you don’t have the time, resources, or confidence to apply it in ways that move your work forward.

Join econext and CIOOS Atlantic as we explore an exciting new way to keep up with the speed of AI without getting lost in the weeds – the Building Bridges Community of Practice.

This free community, built for ocean professionals, researchers, and innovators, provides members with the data tools they need to adopt AI confidently and effectively, breaking down technical barriers, advancing AI literacy, and fostering collaborative innovation.

This session is free! Please register using the button below!

Register Here

Agenda:

  1. Welcome and Introduction to CIOOS Atlantic & the Building Bridges Project
  2. Overview of the Building Bridges Community of Practice + Walkthrough
  3. Introduction to AI Courses
  4. Moderated Q&A + Wrap-up

About the Presenters:

Shayla Fitzsimmons is the Executive Director of CIOOS Atlantic, where she leads regional efforts to make ocean data more accessible, interoperable, and impactful across Atlantic Canada.

Yan Chen is the Community Coordinator for the Building Bridges Community of Practice, supporting its development through CIOOS Atlantic.

Alex Johnston is the Ocean AI Training Lead for Building Bridges, where he develops dynamic learning experiences that make ocean science and artificial intelligence accessible to all.