Author: Chelsie Cake

econext Celebrates the Achievements of the Last Year at 2025 Industry Awards

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

econext and TD Recognize Leaders in Clean Growth at 2025 Industry Awards

For Immediate Release
April 22, 2025

econext, in partnership with TD, proudly recognized the achievements of local innovators and leaders in the clean technology and environmental services sectors at its Annual General Meeting and Industry Awards Reception on April 16, 2025.

“Businesses and individuals across Newfoundland and Labrador are leading the way  in the green economy,” said Kieran Hanley, CEO of econext. “Our industry awards are an opportunity to celebrate that leadership and shine a light on the incredible work being done in our province.”

The following awards were presented during this year’s event:
• Cleantech Innovation Award – Atlantic XL
• Business Excellence Award – Waterford Energy Services Inc. 
• International Business Award – Rutter Inc.
• Industry Champion Award – Ashley Noseworthy, Edgewise Environmental

Each recipient represents a unique contribution to the green economy in Newfoundland and Labrador — from commercializing new technologies and expanding into international markets, to championing sustainable practices and shaping the future of our industry.

“Congratulations to all of our award winners,” added Hanley. “Your work is helping to drive meaningful change and build a cleaner, stronger future for the province.”

More information about the awards and recipients can be found in the backgrounder below.

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. For more information, visit https://econext.ca/.

Backgrounder

Business Excellence Award

econext‘s Business Excellence Award recognizes a significant initiative or achievement of a business engaged in Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy. This could include the completion of specific projects, business growth milestones, or a contribution to the community from a sustainability or corporate social responsibility perspective. The award is judged according to the initiative or achievement’s impact as it relates to economic growth and development, positive environmental effects, and public awareness of green economy and environmental challenges or opportunities.

econext is proud to present the 2025 Business Excellence Award to Waterford Energy Services Inc.

WESI stood out in 2024 for its leadership in advancing offshore renewable energy. Key achievements include a feasibility study for ERI NL on floating offshore wind turbines, a port infrastructure study in the Strait of Canso, and a co-authored whitepaper on a 700 MW offshore wind project in Nova Scotia. Their expert contributions to regional and national offshore wind assessments highlight their role as a leader in the clean energy space.

Equally committed to local growth, WESI invests in talent development through partnerships with Memorial University, Dalhousie, and MITACS, supporting research in areas like ice accretion and battery energy storage. Their dedication to applied research, student learning opportunities, and international knowledge-sharing makes them a deserving recipient of the 2025 Business Excellence Award.

Cleantech Innovation Award

econext’s Cleantech Innovation Award recognizes innovation at any stage of development in business and academia – from research and development, to commercialization, to refinement – of products, services, or processes that can mitigate effects to, protect, or enhance the environment. The award is judged according to the uniqueness of the innovation, the potential for positive environmental impact, and the potential for commercial application.

The winner of this year’s Cleantech Innovation Award is Atlantic XL.

This award recognizes game-changing solutions that protect the environment and offer strong potential for commercial impact — and Atlantic XL’s work in additive manufacturing (AM) checks every box. Their 3D printing solutions reduce supply chain risk, cut lead times, and help businesses extend the life of critical equipment by producing parts on demand, minimizing downtime and waste.

What sets Atlantic XL apart is their commitment to sustainability. By localizing production, their AM technology reduces transportation emissions and material waste, while supporting the circular economy here in Newfoundland and Labrador. It’s a clear example of how innovation and impact can go hand in hand — and we’re proud to celebrate their leadership in cleantech.

International Business Award

econext‘s International Business Award recognizes a significant initiative or achievement of a Newfoundland and Labrador organization engaged in international business activities relating to cleantech or environmental services. Initiatives or achievements could include export success, diversification into new sectors or markets, collaborative research and development, or the establishment of international partners. The award is judged according to the relative impact of the internationalization activity for the individual business and/or the industry at-large.

The winner of this year’s International Business Award is Rutter Inc.

A long-time leader in radar image processing, Rutter continues to set the standard for maritime innovation from right here in Newfoundland and Labrador. Their newest platform, Rutter Unify, connects radar systems across vessels, platforms, and control centers — and is already being used in Brazil by energy sector operators and ocean conservation organizations to monitor oil spill detection systems in real time. With over 2,000 systems shipped worldwide and more than 25 years of export success, Rutter’s global impact is clear.

Through cutting-edge technology, international partnerships, and a commitment to safety and environmental monitoring, Rutter is proudly representing NL on the world stage. We’re thrilled to recognize their achievements with this year’s International Business Award.

Industry Champion Award

econext’s prestigious Industry Champion Award recognizes the contribution of an individual to the growth of Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean technology and environmental services sector.

Ashley Noseworthy, Founder and CEO of Edgewise Environmental, is the recipient of econext’s 2025 Industry Champion Award!

A recognized leader in marine environmental monitoring, Ashley has been instrumental in modernizing the ocean technology sector in Newfoundland and Labrador. Through her work as CEO and Founder of Edgewise Environmental, she’s helped grow the province’s global reputation in sustainability-focused innovation, while leading a multidisciplinary team. Her contributions include launching Canada’s first formal training programs for MMOs, SBOs, and PAM operators — and expanding access to critical offshore skills and expertise.

Ashley’s commitment to industry transformation, inclusivity, and long-term impact sets her apart. She continues to shape best practices, strengthen regulatory frameworks, and push for more opportunities for women in offshore and marine industries. Her leadership is helping define the future of environmental services in this province and beyond.

Green Roots – Corner Brook Edition

Posted on by Chelsie Cake


Empowering Newcomers for Careers in the Green Economy – Corner Brook Edition

Are you a newcomer to Canada looking to build your career in the green economy? The Green Roots Career Series offers a unique opportunity to develop essential job-seeking skills, expand your network, and connect with potential employers. Through workshops, participants will gain valuable insights and even have a chance to secure an internship with a participating company.

*While attendance at each workshop not mandatory for program participation, it is highly encouraged to give applicants the best chance at securing an internship.

Register Now

Applicants will be emailed events details and locations.

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Upcoming Workshops

Accelerate Your Interview Skills

📅 April 23, 2025 – 10 AM
📍 Online
Gain confidence and learn key techniques to excel in job interviews.

Combined Workshop: Power Up Your Personal Brand + Grow Your Network

📅 Thursday May 1st 10 AM – 1 PM
📍 In-person @ Grenfell Campus
An immersive workshop to strengthen both your personal brand and networking strategies.

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Internship Selection

At the conclusion of the events, one participant from the Corner Brook region will be selected for an internship with a participating company.
• Internship Duration: May – July
• Eligibility: Newcomer to Canada

This is your chance to kickstart your career in a growing industry!

📢 Don’t Miss Out! Register now to secure your spot in this exciting career series program.

🔗 Click Here to Register

CNA Students Shine Bright in econext’s First Virtual Ideathon

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

St. John’s, NL — From March 12–28, students from across the College of the North Atlantic came together virtually to innovate, collaborate, and pitch bold solutions to some of the province’s  most pressing sustainability challenges. The event, econext‘s first-ever virtual ideathon, challenged participants to think creatively and develop sustainable solutions to real-world problems.

Top Placing Teams

First Place Winners
Hydro Heroes (Keenan Crawley, Breanna Seward, Nathan Cave, and Dyana)  took home first place for their concept that focuses on biogas production as a clean, renewable energy alternative for the seafood industry, reducing waste and emissions in one of Atlantic Canada’s most vital sectors.

Second Place Winners
Best Kind Solutions (Ashley Hoskins, Corvin Greenham, and Ethan Lane) earned second place with their idea centered on lithium-ion battery recycling. Their proposal aimed to minimize environmental harm while promoting sustainable practices within the rapidly growing tech industries.

Third Place Winners
Earth Advocates (Victoria Osmond, Amber Chippett, Claire Bombis, and Bethany Roberts) took third place with the introduction of Trash for Tokens, a mobile app that encourages waste reduction by rewarding users for recycling, while also supporting local businesses.

“We really enjoyed opening up the challenge theme to let students explore what they were passionate about,” said Chelsea Linfield, Project Finance Manager with econext. “That flexibility sparked a lot of creativity and led to some really innovative ideas we might not have seen otherwise.”

Alex Rumbolt, econext‘s Business Sustainability Lead who also helped lead the event, agreed. “The ideas from the students were incredible. Even though it was virtual, the collaboration and enthusiasm felt just as strong as any in-person event. It allowed us to connect with students across the province.”

econext extends sincere thanks to all its partners, mentors and judges who helped make the first virtual ideathon a success. econext would also like to thank its sponsor, Newfoundland and Labrador’s Credit Union, for supporting this event and helping students explore opportunities in the green economy.

This ideathon was made possible through partnership with the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER), and with support from the Government of Canada.

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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 BHER
The Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that brings together Canada’s top businesses and post-secondary institutions. BHER works to strengthen partnerships, expand work-integrated learning opportunities, and drive innovation. Learn more at www.bher.ca.

The Project Zero econext Circular Economy Incubator is Looking for Big Ideas to Power a Circular Economy

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

St. John’s, NL – March 31, 2025 — If you’ve got an idea that could reduce waste, rethink resource use, or create cleaner, more sustainable ways of doing business, econext wants to hear from you.

The Project Zero econext Circular Economy Incubator is a free clean growth incubator designed to help early-stage entrepreneurs build solutions for a circular economy—where materials stay in use, waste is designed out, and environmental impact is part of the equation from day one.

You don’t need to have a full business plan or a finished product. If you’ve got a concept, a prototype, or even just the beginning of a big idea, this virtual program can help you take it to the next level.

Selected participants get:
• Access to expert mentorship
• Workshops and training
• Support with funding, pitching, and commercialization
• A network of people who care about solving real-world problems

Whether you’re working on sustainable fashion, circular design, food waste—or something completely unexpected—this incubator is a space to build, test, and grow your idea from wherever you are in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Applications are open now and close April 6, 2025.

Apply today at econext.ca/project-zero

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 Synergy Foundation 

Synergy Foundation was created in 2013 by the Synergy Enterprises team and a group of passionate community members and leaders who recognized the need for a non-profit organization to lead the transition towards a green economy on the west coast. Since its inception, Synergy Foundation has focused on innovative projects and programs that have pushed the envelope, supported hundreds of businesses, and turned great ideas into action.

​Our core focus areas include supporting communities and businesses in adopting circular economy practices and advancing green business operations to foster a regenerative, inclusive, and equitable economy. This is represented in our core initiatives: BC Green Business, Project Zero, and the Ecostar Awards.

 

Students Reimagine Sustainable Transportation at Fourth econext Ideathon in Corner Brook

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Corner Brook, NL – March 2025 — From March 7–9, 2025, the fourth econext Clean Growth Ideathon challenged students at Grenfell Campus, Memorial University, to tackle one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most pressing sustainability issues: transportation.

With a focus on sustainability and efficiency, the event brought together students from diverse academic backgrounds. In just 48 hours, five teams worked to answer the question: How can Newfoundland and Labrador improve transportation sustainability and efficiency?

CB Ideathon (4)
CB Ideathon (4)
CB Ideathon (5)
CB Ideathon (5)
CB Ideathon (6)
CB Ideathon (6)
CB Ideathon (7)
CB Ideathon (7)
CB Ideathon (8)
CB Ideathon (8)
CB Ideathon (9)
CB Ideathon (9)

“Transportation is the biggest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in our province,” said Alex Rumbolt, Business Sustainability Lead with econext. “Through this ideathon, we gave students the platform to create real, actionable ideas—and they stepped up in a big way.”

Participants took part in workshops and received one-on-one mentorship throughout the weekend, helping turn early-stage ideas into well-rounded, innovative pitches. A panel of judges evaluated the final presentations on criteria including sustainability, impact, and feasibility.


First Place Winners
The top prize was awarded to Big Green Energy (Beth Skeard, Jocelyne Roberts, Janelle Vallis, Joni Hoffrén), whose winning idea proposed a fleet of electric hybrid bike rentals for Corner Brook’s unique geography. Their plan emphasized improving accessibility, reducing emissions, and encouraging active transportation in the city.


Second Place Winners
Team CAS (Blessing Adedokun-Awojodu, Chinwe Nzekwe) earned second place for their redesign of the Corner Brook bus system. Their concept focused on route optimization, service electrification, and data-informed scheduling to enhance efficiency and ridership.


Third Place Winners
In third place, Unstoppable (Soham Savant, Amna Chohan) pitched an initiative to introduce hydrogen fuel cell technology into the province’s transport trucking sector—an approach aimed at cutting emissions in one of the most carbon-intensive industries.

“The energy and talent these students brought to the table was incredible,” said Chelsea Linfield, Project Finance Manager with econext. “Their ideas show the kind of leadership we need for the future of greener transportation in Newfoundland and Labrador.”

econext extends sincere thanks to all its partners, mentors and judges who helped make the fourth ideathon a success. econext would also like to especially thank its sponsor, takeCHARGE NL, for supporting this event and helping students learn more about the green economy.

This ideathon was made possible through partnership with the Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER), and with support from the Government of Canada.

For information on future ideathons or partnership opportunities, please contact:
Chelsea Linfield – chelsea@econext.ca
Alex Rumbolt – alex@econext.ca

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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 BHER
The Business + Higher Education Roundtable (BHER) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that brings together Canada’s top businesses and post-secondary institutions. BHER works to strengthen partnerships, expand work-integrated learning opportunities, and drive innovation. Learn more at www.bher.ca.

Green Roots – A Learning and Networking Career Series

Posted on by Chelsie Cake


Empowering Newcomers for Careers in the Green Economy

Are you a newcomer to Canada looking to build your career in the green economy? The Green Roots Career Series offers a unique opportunity to develop essential job-seeking skills, expand your network, and connect with potential employers. Through a series of four workshops and five company connector events, participants will gain valuable insights and even have a chance to secure an internship with a participating company.

*While attendance at each workshop and connector event is not mandatory for program participation, it is highly encouraged to give applicants the best chance at securing an internship.

* Participants can continue to sign up to attend future events, even if the program is underway. 

Register Now

Upon registration, applicants will be emailed upcoming events details.

⸻

Upcoming Workshops

Power Up Your Personal Brand

📅 April 1, 2025 – 10 AM (COMPLETE)
📍 Online
Learn how to build a compelling personal brand that stands out in today’s job market.

Grow Your Network

📅 April 8, 2025 – 10 AM 
📍 In-person,  Sheraton Hotel: 115 Cavendish Square, St. John’s, NL
Master networking skills and learn how to create meaningful professional connections.

Combined Workshop: Power Up Your Personal Brand + Grow Your Network

📅 April 29, 2025
📍 In-person, Corner Brook
A two-day immersive workshop to strengthen both your personal brand and networking strategies.

Accelerate Your Interview Skills

📅 April 23, 2025 – 10 AM
📍 Online
Gain confidence and learn key techniques to excel in job interviews.

*Additional times to be shared with program participants’ email.

Company Connector Events

Throughout April, we’re hosting five networking events where program participants can meet and engage with potential employers in the green economy sector by visiting their office spaces. These events will give you direct access to industry professionals, and valuable career opportunities.

Participants who register for this program will be emailed the dates and times of these events, along with the RSVP form.

Participants can continue to sign up to attend future events. Registration for this program does not guarantee attendance at company connector events, as RSVP forms will be sent out on a first-come, first-served basis.  

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Internship Selection

At the conclusion of the Company Connector Events, five participants will be selected for internships with companies they connected with during the events.
• Internship Duration: May – July
• Eligibility: Newcomer to Canada

This is your chance to kickstart your career in a growing industry!

📢 Don’t Miss Out! Register now to secure your spot in this exciting career series program.

🔗 Click Here to Register

For more information, stay connected and check back for updates on event details!

econext Hosts Successful Greening Business Workshop in Corner Brook, Expanding to More Communities Across the Province

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

For Immediate Release

March 14, 2025

Corner Brook, NL  – econext is pleased to announce the success of its first Greening Business Workshop, held in Corner Brook on March 7, 2025. The event provided local businesses with valuable insights on reducing their environmental impact and how improving efficiency and sustainability can result in direct benefits.

With the support of our event partners – the Greater Corner Brook Board of Trade – as well as our program partners, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, the workshop equipped attendees with practical insights for integrating sustainable practices into their operations.

Business Sustainability Lead Alex Rumbolt presents to workshop attendees.

“This workshop showcased the growing commitment among Newfoundland and Labrador businesses to sustainability,” said Alex Rumbolt, Business Sustainability Lead at econext. “By providing practical solutions and connecting businesses with key resources, we’re helping to drive real change in the province’s green economy.”

Matthew Hatcher of takeCHARGE presents on energy efficiency to workshop attendees.

Following this successful event, econext is excited to bring the Greening Business Workshop series to more communities across Newfoundland and Labrador. These future workshops will continue to support businesses in adopting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and the bottom line.

For more information on upcoming workshops and sustainability initiatives, visit econext.ca.

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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.

Green Horizons: Career Opportunities in NL’s Green Economy

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

 

Exploring Career Pathways in Newfoundland & Labrador’s Green Economy

Date: March 25, 2025
Location: Holiday Inn, 180 Portugal Cove,  St. John’s NL / Online
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM

Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy is expanding, creating new career opportunities. This event is designed for individuals looking to enter or transition into the green economy. Attendees will gain insights into workforce opportunities while networking with employers and industry leaders.

Click Here to Register

Why Attend?

• Learn about career opportunities.
• Gain insights into training programs and certification pathways.
• Connect with industry experts and professionals.
• Participate in interactive and networking activities.

Event Agenda (this agenda is subject to potential changes) 

09:30 AM – 10:00 AM | Registration & Welcome Coffee

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM | Opening Remarks

10:15 AM – 10:30 AM | Success Stories

10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Green Economy Interactive Game

11:00 AM – 11:15 AM | Green Horizons

11:15 AM – 12:15 PM | Panel Discussion: Career Pathways to the Green Economy in NL

• NL Hydro
• College of the North Atlantic
• Office to Advance Women Apprentices NL
• Angler Solutions
• SEM Ltd.

12:15 PM – 12:30 PM | econav Launch & Closing Remarks

12:30 PM – 1:30 PM | Lunch & Networking

In-person spaces are limited. Secure your spot today! Can’t attend in-person? Join with our virtual ticket, and you will receive a link to watch this event.

For more information, contact ogaga@econext.ca.

Project Zero econext Circular Economy Incubator

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

The Project Zero econext Circular Economy Incubator is a free program to help entrepreneurs and businesses explore opportunities for innovative new approaches to waste management in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL).

Over the course of 6 months, participants will advance their ideas forward and benefit from entrepreneurial skill-building, circular economy expertise, ongoing business mentorship, and access to a network of like-minded organizations and leaders.

Apply Now!

Information Webinar

Please find both the recording and presentation from the Project Zero econext Circular Economy Incubator webinar.

Click here for the presentation.

Click here for the webinar recording.

Program Participants

The ideal program participants are innovators – entrepreneurs or existing businesses – wishing to pursue the development of a new technology or provide a new service that diverts waste from the province’s landfills.

Program Outcomes

Through the incubator, program participants will:

  • Develop a business plan
  • Learn how to pitch their ideas
  • ​Build a foundation of business fundamentals and entrepreneurial skills
  • ​Connect with mentors and coaches
  • ​Network with innovative business leaders and industry experts
  • ​Come together with like-minded entrepreneurs going through the same process

At the end of the program, participants will have a better understanding of the feasibility of their ideas and what the next steps are in their pursuit.

Program Schedule

  • March – Applications are open!
  • April – Applications close. Cohort is selected from the applicant pool.
  • May – Each venture is matched with a business coach, meeting monthly to provide mentorship, facilitate connections, and jump hurdles. Ventures participate in monthly virtual sessions hosted by industry experts, covering entrepreneurship and sustainability fundamentals. In tandem with sessions, ventures complete assignments that build towards a comprehensive business plan.
  • December – Ventures compete in the final pitch event, presenting to an audience of investors, industry experts, and media.

Apply Now

Applications for the 2025 incubator are now open. Limited spaces will be available! Click the button below to fill out your application form. The deadline for applications is April 6, 2025.

Apply Now!

Why is Innovation in NL’s Waste Management Important?

Newfoundland and Labrador has a small population spread across vast areas of land. Its communities and industries are often found in rural and sometimes even remote areas. These circumstances make the provision of waste management services challenging. Processes and technologies that are proven elsewhere often are uneconomic in the NL context due to smaller scales of activity and volumes of waste. Meanwhile, NL is one of the largest producers per capita of waste in Canada; our waste has significant environmental impacts including the fact that our landfills are responsible for ~7% of the province’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Developing and adopting new technologies and services that diverts waste from our landfills can have a positive environmental impact and reduce our waste management costs.

What is the Circular Economy?

In today’s world, most of the products we purchase are made from raw resources and are designed to be used for only a short time before being disposed of and ending up at a landfill. On average, only 7.2% of materials are recirculated back into the global economy at end-of-life. This ‘take-make-waste’ economy is resource-intensive and puts pressure on Earth’s natural ecosystems.

Taking a more ‘circular’ approach means rethinking how products are designed, manufactured, used, and treated at the end of their useful life. In a circular economy, products and materials recirculate within the supply chain through reduction, reuse and repair, redistribution, reconditioning, and recycling processes.

A more circular economy reduces waste and pollution, while helping to increase resource efficiency.

Questions

If you have any questions on the Project Zero econext Circular Economy Incubator or the application process, please reach out to incubator@econext.ca.

The Art of Going Green: A Mural for Newfoundland and Labrador’s Green Economy

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Mural artist Molly Margaret stands next to her work.

There’s something new on the walls at No Picnik Co-Working—a mural that tells the story of Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy—from its roots in the fishery to its future in the clean energy industry. The piece captures the province’s natural beauty, its evolving industries, and the people driving the growth of a vibrant and environmentally sustainable economic future.

An image depicting the full mural.

“This artwork will serve to be an important reminder – each and every day for our staff and the many visitors we see at our office – of the purpose and importance of econext’s work and existence,” said econext’s CEO Kieran Hanley. “We have a 40-foot hallway which is traveled dozens of times everyday by our employees, others at No Picnik, and all of our visitors,” he said, “and we saw this as an opportunity to tell the important story of our association and its members.”

The mural is filled with symbols and depictions of Newfoundland and Labrador’s past, present, and future economies— from the fisheries, to the offshore, to wind and hydro power. It reflects the work that econext’s members are doing every day, moving industries forward while staying connected to the land and ocean that defines us.

The mural was designed and painted by well-known local artist Molly Margaret. “Molly worked closely with us to bring this vision to life,” said Hanley. “We were lucky that she was able and willing, and her work has already made for a brighter and more inspiring workspace.”

The mural depicts many different scenes, such as a teaching environment.

“Creating this mural for econext was an incredibly enjoyable experience! Collaborating to create a concept that blended the province’s imagery with achievements in the evolving green economy was a unique opportunity,” said artist Molly Margaret. “It was exciting to dive into their core values and mission, weaving them into a vibrant and meaningful illustration. Painting in the workspace was a true highlight, allowing me to bring the piece to life with bright saturated colors and energy. I’m very proud of this piece and I hope it brings some joy to everyone who steps into the office!”

Now a permanent fixture at No Picnik, the mural will reinforce with visitors Newfoundland and Labrador’s history and the bright green future that it has in front of it. “We all have a role to play in helping the province to realize this future,” said Hanley. “This artwork will be a continuous reminder of econext’s mission and the important work our staff are doing each and every day to contribute to Newfoundland and Labrador’s future.”

Margaret outlines the mural details.

About No Picnik

No Picnik is a co-working space on the second floor of 235 Water Street in the heart of Downtown St. John’s. The space includes private offices, workstations, access to meetings rooms, and a wide variety of shared amenities. More information can be found at https://nopicnik.ca/.

About Molly Margaret

Molly is an Illustrator and Muralist from St. John’s, Newfoundland. She received her Bachelor of Design in Illustration at OCAD University in Toronto, Canada in 2018. Her work is largely inspired by plants and botanicals, East Coast imagery and culture, as well as architecture and people. She prioritizes creating joyous, colourful, and whimsical work for everyone to enjoy. More information can be found on her website https://mollymargaretart.com/.

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.