Category: News Release

On Budget Day in Newfoundland and Labrador (April 29, 2026), several announcements stood out as particularly relevant to econext members, especially across business growth, and environmental sustainability.

What We’re Seeing

Business

• Reducing the Small Business Tax Rate to 2 per cent as of January 1, 2026, 1.5 per cent on January 1, 2027, and 1 per cent on January 1, 2028 to support over 6,000 small businesses in the province.
• Establishment of a Red Tape Reduction Office

Environmental Sustainability 

• $3.6 million for the implementation and improvement of waste management initiatives
• $36 million for the Oil-to-Electric Rebate Program

Climate Resilience

• $2.3 million over two fiscal years to produce flood risk maps for vulnerable communities as part of the joint Flood Hazard Identification and Monitoring Program with the federal government
• $100,000 to support improved community emergency response planning in rural and remote areas in partnership with the federal government

Economic Development

• $34 million to support economic development and innovation initiatives, including business growth, R&D, commercialization, export growth, investment attraction, and regional economic development
• $7.75 million to support projects through the Green Transition Fund

Energy

• Funding dedicated to the development of a 10-year energy plan
• $8.65 million for the Innovation and Business Development Fund to expand the province’s energy supply and service capabilities
• $584,000 for a Natural Gas Feasibility and Investment Opportunity Study to assess natural gas development options and attract private sector investment

Agriculture

• Funding dedicated to the development of a 10-year Agriculture Strategy
• More than $9 million in 2026-27 through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership to support new agriculture projects and evolving industry needs

Mineral Resources

• $900,000 to support iron ore development in Labrador, including the Labrador West Transmission and Regional System Impact Study and Julienne Lake iron ore project
• $400,000 to help identify new critical mineral exploration targets
• $1.3 million to advance critical mineral exploration in rural areas through the Junior Exploration Assistance Program

What We’re Not Seeing

Along with the implementation and improvement of waste management initiatives, we would like to see funding dedicated to the development of a provincial Waste Management Strategy, considering the most recent strategy was developed in 2002. We look forward to further discussions with the Department of Environment, Conservation and Climate Change regarding this priority.

We also look forward to contributing to the development of the province’s 10-year energy plan. Importantly, clarity regarding the MOU signed by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro and Hydro-Québec, including the forthcoming report from the Independent Churchill Review Committee, will be significant inputs for this plan. We believe that the development of the province’s hydroelectric resources is vital to the long-term future of NL’s economy. We look forward to further discussions with the Department of Energy and Mines regarding this priority.

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To learn more about Budget 2026, visit the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador website: https://www.gov.nl.ca/budget/2026/.

For Immediate Release
October 15, 2025

The 2025 econext Conference welcomed leaders, innovators, and community partners from across Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond to explore how collaboration and innovation are shaping the province’s green economy. Held at the Delta St. John’s on October 9, the event highlighted the opportunities, partnerships, and ideas driving progress across the region.

“It’s inspiring to see how much collaboration and creativity exists within this community,” said Laura Barron, CEO of econext. “This year, we are seeing conversations that are more focused on taking action.”

This year’s conference covered a range of topics related to Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy transition, including innovation in the electricity sector, the path to net-zero marine transportation, workforce development, and emerging national and international clean energy trends.

“We work to ensure the agenda reflects what our members are facing and talking about every day,” Barron explained. “From energy, to workforce, and opportunities here and abroad, it’s all connected.”

Speakers shared insights on how collaborations between industry, government, and communities are helping to drive innovation and investment across the province. Discussions highlighted the number of proposed projects and the people and skills necessary to support a growing green economy.

Attendees also heard from other speakers, including the 2025 econext Ideathon winners, whose innovative idea showcased how emerging entrepreneurs can contribute to Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainability goals. econext staff provided updates on new initiatives supporting green business and member collaboration. A presentation from Procurement Assistance Canada offered insights for local companies interested in accessing federal procurement opportunities.

“Momentum is building,” said Barron. “We’re seeing projects that were discussed as ideas on this stage a few years ago that are now progressing into new phases, and that’s exciting to hear and learn about.”

As the day came to a close, there was a clear sense that Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy continues to evolve, and that collaboration remains at the heart of it.

“What stood out to me this year was cross-sectoral alignment,” said Barron. “Whether you’re working in the energy, marine, or circular economy sectors, there’s a shared understanding that the green economy isn’t just an opportunity for the future, it’s something we’re building right now.”

econext thanks all attendees, partners and sponsors who helped make the 2025 Conference a success, and looks forward to welcoming its community back at the 2026 Conference.

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.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 1, 2025

econext, on behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP), has signed an agreement with three other leading Canadian hydrogen hubs conducting similar research and activities in developing hydrogen energy technologies.

The collaboration between HyIP, Simon Fraser University (British Columbia), La Vallée de la Transition Énergétique (VTE, Québec), and the Edmonton Regional Hydrogen Hub (Alberta) will form the Pan-Canadian Alliance of Hydrogen Hubs, representing a major national milestone in advancing Canada’s leadership in clean hydrogen technologies. By linking hydrogen hubs from across Canada, the partnership aims to break down geographic barriers and leverage regional strengths.

The four partners have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), outlining their joint mission to accelerate the development of hydrogen technologies as a cornerstone of Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Through collaboration, the hubs will grow a national hydrogen ecosystem to drive investment, scale breakthrough solutions, support workforce development, and ensure energy security and sustainability for generations to come.

The MOU outlines areas of mutual interest and cooperation:
● Supporting the advancement of hydrogen-related projects in each region.
● Promoting the use, application, and commercialization of Canadian-developed hydrogen technologies.
● Facilitating education, training, and community engagement at all levels.
● Ensuring knowledge transfer and sharing best practices across economic, financial, and technical domains.

Six projects, totaling more than 20 gigawatts of clean energy, are being pursued in Newfoundland and Labrador for the purpose of hydrogen production and export.

“Canada is primed to be a global leader in clean hydrogen technology, and Newfoundland and Labrador will be central to production and transatlantic trade with Europe,” said Laura Barron, econext’s CEO. “On behalf of the Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP), we are proud to join the Pan-Canadian Alliance of Hydrogen Hubs to help our nation reach its potential.”

About HyIP

The Newfoundland and Labrador Hydrogen Innovation Partnership (HyIP) is a unique collaboration between research institutions, industry, and Indigenous groups. Collaborators include Memorial University and its Marine Institute, College of the North Atlantic, econext, Miawpukek First Nation, and Qalipu First Nation. More information on HyIP can be found at https://hy-ip.ca.

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.

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Media Contacts

Chelsie Cake
econext
709.979.0389
cake@econext.ca

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2025

St. John’s, NL– econext, in partnership with the City of St. John’s, has launched Make the Shift NL (The Shift Program), a free guidance service that helps homeowners make their homes more energy efficient.

The Shift Program connects residents with Home Energy Navigators who provide information on home energy efficiency renovations and help homeowners access available resources to complete these upgrades. This initiative is supported by the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Green Municipal Fund, an endowment created by the Government of Canada.

“econext is excited to launch the Shift Program in partnership with the City of St. John’s,” said Laura Barron, CEO of econext. “Helping homeowners make the shift to more energy efficient homes reflects our mission to accelerate the green economy and help move our province toward net-zero. The Shift Program offers an opportunity to work directly with homeowners and with companies focused on minimizing residential environmental impact.”

The City of St. John’s sees the program as a key step in helping residents and the broader community. Councillor Tom Davis, Lead for Sustainability with the City of St. John’s, said: “This initiative helps residents make their homes more energy efficient while also supporting our community’s broader goals of reducing emissions, saving energy costs, and building a greener, more sustainable future. Building partnerships is key to this work, and we are so proud to partner with econext on this exciting new program.”

According to Katie Fraser, Manager of Program Delivery with Shift, the goal is to make decision-making less overwhelming: “It can be hard to know where to start, whether it’s insulation, windows, or a heat pump. Our team provides personalized guidance to help each household choose the upgrades that make the most sense for them.”

Program participation starts with a simple conversation. Residents can visit maketheshiftnl.ca, call 709.979.0362, or email hello@maketheshiftnl.ca to connect with a Home Energy Navigator.

To make the first step easier, the program is offering subsidized home energy audits for $99 (for a limited time), about 80% off the regular cost. Audits give homeowners a clear picture of where their energy is being used and how to reduce energy consumption. In addition, the City of St. John’s has partnered with the Newfoundland and Labrador Credit Union to offer a special low-interest loan for residents investing in efficiency upgrades.

“We encourage any homeowner in the city to reach out to our team and see what options might be available,” said Fraser. “Some residents have already completed an energy audit, and we can help them make sense of the EnerGuide report and take the next steps. For those who haven’t, we can help get you signed up. Whether it’s better insulation, draft sealing, or other upgrades, our goal is to guide homeowners toward the improvements that save money on energy and make homes more comfortable year-round. We’re excited to get started.”

The Shift Program is now available to homeowners in the City of St. John’s.

For more information, visit www.maketheshiftnl.ca.

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/.

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Media Contacts

Chelsie Cake
econext
709.979.0389
cake@econext.ca

Jackie O’Brien
City of St. John’s
709.576.8491
jobrien@stjohns.ca

Aug 22, 2025 – On August 20, econext joined with its member organizations to mark the conclusion of the Green Roots Career Series Project. Launched with the support of the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the project set out to connect newcomers and foreign-trained professionals with opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s growing green economy. Its wrap-up was both a celebration and a reflection on the impacts achieved.

An Overview of the Green Roots Career Series

Over its duration, Green Roots engaged 104 participants through a mix of workshops, open houses, and internships. Key highlights included:

• Four workshops focused on personal branding, professional networking, and interview skills.
• Five open houses hosted by Angler Solutions, NL Hydro, Edgewise Environmental, SEM Ltd., and the City of Corner Brook, giving participants first-hand exposure to workplaces in industry.
• Six internship placements offering hands-on experience in fields such as marketing, logistics, event coordination, climate consulting, and machine learning.

Collaboration at the Core

The program’s success was made possible by industry partners, whose mentorship and leadership created opportunities for learning. Special acknowledgement goes to Edgewise Environmental, Global Maritime, City of Corner Brook, Fundamental Inc., Angler Solutions, SEM Ltd. and NL Hydro. econext CEO Laura Barron presented each of these organizations with a certificate of appreciation for their contributions.

Ogaga Johnson, econext’s Director of Workforce Development, reflected on the project’s outcomes:

“Green Roots delivered real, measurable impact. In its inaugural edition, we engaged 104 newcomers through four targeted workshops, five connector open houses, and six paid internships with six industry partners. Industry partners called the initiative highly impactful, and many participants said it was their first authentic Canadian workplace experience, leaving them with practical skills, industry connections, paid placements, and lessons that have positively shaped their careers, ready to contribute fully to Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy.”

The impact was also felt for participants. As Fatiha Mohammed, a Social Media Marketing intern with Edgewise Environmental, shared:

“Now that I have worked here I have gained a lot of knowledge. I am eager to find out what my future holds and of course, I do envision myself working in the green economy and finding a way to contribute back towards the community and earth.”

Discussing the Way Forward 

At the August 20 wrap-up, a panel brought together voices from across the program to discuss its impacts and the future of the green economy. Featuring Ashley Noseworthy (Edgewise Environmental), Kristen Ladouceur (NL Hydro), Anskey Miranda (Global Maritime), Chad Fowlow (Angler Solutions), and Fatiha Mohammed (Green Roots Participant), and moderated by Ogaga Johnson (econext), the conversation explored both the workforce challenges and opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable industries. Panelists emphasized the value of initiatives like Green Roots in preparing individuals to contribute their skills while addressing industry needs in a mutually beneficial fashion.

Foreign Credential Recognition Research

This project also included workforce research on foreign credential recognition for forecasted in-demand clean energy careers. This research aimed to understand the process internationally trained professionals undertake to get their credentials recognized and begin to work in Newfoundland and Labrador as well as identify any barriers and gaps they may face during the process.

econext will be releasing the outcomes of this research very soon, helping to inform policy, guide employers, and open more doors for internationally trained professionals who want to contribute their expertise to Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable industries.

Looking Ahead: Green Roots 2.0

While August 20 marked the official close of this chapter, the momentum is only building. econext is excited to announce that Green Roots 2.0 will launch this fall, continuing to create pathways for newcomers and internationally trained professionals to thrive in the green economy in the province.

As we move into the next edition, the roots planted in this first edition will continue to grow into lasting contributions to Newfoundland and Labrador’s sustainable future.

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 econext.ca.

St. John’s, NL – The Board of Directors of econext is pleased to announce the appointment of Laura Barron as the new Chief Executive Officer.

Barron steps into the role following an extensive national search and brings with her a deep commitment to environmental innovation, organizational leadership, and sustainable economic development. Most recently serving as Director of Marketing Communications for World Energy GH2, she has two decades of experience building relationships across government, industry, and communities to advance clean growth initiatives across the region.

As CEO, Barron will lead econext into its next phase of growth, building on the momentum of recent years while strengthening operational focus and long-term strategy. She will guide the organization through a critical period of opportunity, helping to align its expanding programs and partnerships with a clear vision for sustainable prosperity in Newfoundland and Labrador and beyond.

“I’m honoured to be joining econext at such a pivotal time for clean growth in this province and across Canada,” said Barron. “The challenges and opportunities ahead demand bold collaboration and strategic clarity. I’m excited to build on the exceptional work already underway, and to work alongside our members, partners, and staff to amplify Newfoundland and Labrador’s leadership in the green economy.”

The Board also acknowledges the significant contributions of Kieran Hanley, who has served as CEO since 2016. Under Hanley’s leadership, econext became a nationally recognized voice in sustainable development. Hanley will remain with econext in a senior leadership role, focusing on strategic policy priorities and economic development initiatives.

“Laura is a leader of vision and integrity who brings the experience, relationships, and operational savvy that econext needs in this next chapter,” said Alex Templeton, Chair of the Board. “We’re incredibly grateful that Kieran will continue to help steer our policy and economic development efforts and look forward to the results of their strong partnership that will serve our members and partners well.”

Barron’s appointment marks the next chapter in econext’s evolution. Her leadership will help advance the organization’s mission through continued relationship-building, strategic focus, and a deep commitment to sustainable economic transformation.

econext would like to extend its gratitude to the search committee for their time spent working with KBRS Executive Search on this critical hire for the organization. Barron will begin her role as Chief Executive Officer starting on August 4, 2025.

Congratulations and welcome to econext, Laura!