Category: News Release

For Immediate Release
June 18, 2026

Earlier this year, econext launched its Pre-Apprenticeship Pilot Program (now titled Green Careers Trades Program), an initiative focused on career exploration and development within the skilled trades of the green economy. The program was specifically designed to help newcomers and underemployed individuals explore careers in the trades through immersive, hands-on, work-integrated learning experiences.

During the pilot period, three (3) participants took part in the program, gaining valuable skills and experience with support from employer partners.

econext selected participants for the pilot from Academy Canada and Equiforce, and ensured the participants with New to Construction and FastTrackHer programs had received foundational training and career exploration opportunities before beginning their work placements.

The pilot program focused on providing participants with seven (7) weeks of hands-on workplace experience in the skilled trades. Three (3) part-time placements were offered with local employers including:

1. CGH Home Development Ltd.
2. New Victorian Homes 
3. Island Insulation

The pilot program provided participants with the opportunity to build trade skills, gain industry experience, and develop valuable professional connections while exploring potential career pathways in the trades.

We have received positive feedback from both employers and participants.

Employer Feedback:

When we asked what they liked most about the program, one employer shared:

“That it is fully funded, allowing us to not worry as much when they know very little about carpentry,” and “This is a great way to get more people involved in the trades! We are looking forward to the new program in July.” 

Employers also indicated that they would consider hiring participants in the future, with one participant already being offered casual/contract employment following the placement.

Participant Feedback:

One participant reflected on their experience:

“The program gave me hands-on experience with insulation techniques, tool use, and jobsite safety procedures. I went in with basic knowledge and left confident enough to work on live restoration sites. I also earned my NAIMA certification through the program, sponsored by my employer. I would like to become a certified apprentice and also learn the electrical aspects of construction.”

Following the success of the pilot program, econext has launched its first cohort of the Green Careers Trades Program and is now actively accepting applications from both employers and participants. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, July 24, 2026. 

Employers: Apply Today

Participants: Apply Today

The program is set to begin on July 6, 2026, and run until mid-September 2026.

Learn more about the program HERE.

Thank you to the following organizations for their generous support of the program: Skills Canada, Academy Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador Canadian Home Builders’ Association, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association, Office to Advance Women Apprentices Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.

For Immediate Release
May 29, 2026

St. John’s, NL — econext, in partnership with Synergy Foundation, is excited to introduce the ventures selected for the 2026 cohort of the Project Zero econext Incubator. The program supports early-stage businesses focused on circular economy solutions that help reduce waste, maximize resource use, extend product life cycles, and advance sustainability across Newfoundland and Labrador.

The 2026 cohort includes:

• Mixed Coast Collective
• ReUseNL
• Second Wave Market NL
• Echo Green
• Best Kind Recycling
• NLight Recycling
• 3Peat
• ReUseLoop NL

Over the next six months, participating entrepreneurs will take part in a free incubator program featuring one-on-one business coaching, customized workshops, and mentorship opportunities with industry leaders and professionals. Throughout the program, participants will work toward developing a strong business plan tailored to their venture, culminating in a final pitch event in December 2026.

Additional information on each venture can be found in the backgrounder below.

To learn more about the Project Zero econext Incubator, visit econext.ca/project-zero.

About econext

econext is a not-for-profit industry association dedicated to advancing environmentally sustainable economic growth in Newfoundland and Labrador. With a network of approximately 200 member businesses, research institutions, governments, and organizations, econext serves as a leading voice for the province’s green economy.

We connect members to opportunities in the green economy, champion supportive public policy, build capacity across businesses and communities, and advance innovation through research and sector insights.

Together, we strengthen Newfoundland and Labrador’s green economy by supporting our members, and help drive sustainable growth and innovation across the province.

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.

Backgrounder: 2026 Project Zero Circular Economy Incubator Participants

Below is an overview of the nine ventures selected to participate in this year’s Project Zero Circular Economy Incubator.

Mixed Coast Collective

The Mixed Coast Collective advances community-driven, data-informed approaches to renewable energy, economic development, and environmental stewardship, centering equity, sustainability, and local knowledge in decision-making.

ReUse NL

ReUse NL is a community-driven project that helps people repair, reuse, and upcycle everyday items. We make sustainability practical by turning waste into value and saving useful things from the landfill.

Through local events and workshops, we help residents build skills, save money, and connect with their community.

Our focus is simple: make circular living easy, affordable, and accessible across Newfoundland and Labrador.

SecondWave Market NL

SecondWave Market NL is a remote-first digital marketplace that enables residents, newcomers, and small businesses across Newfoundland and Labrador to give, trade, and rehome usable items, reducing waste while improving affordability and community access.

Echo Green

Echo Green is a land trust that acts as a social enterprise and living lab for developing the Sustainable Development Goals specifically for Newfoundland and Labrador. Our land will test our unique environment to make our people and place resilient and adaptable for the times.

Best Kind Recycling

After recognizing how much value is lost when vehicles and parts are scrapped despite still having usable life, Best Kind Recycling focuses on recovering, refurbishing, and reselling automotive assets that would otherwise go to waste. My goal is to extend the life of vehicles and components while reducing waste and supporting a more circular economy.

NLight Recycling

NLight Recycling Inc. transforms discarded clothing into usable raw materials right here in Newfoundland, keeping textiles in circulation and out of landfills.

3Peat

We take recycled HDPE piping from aquaculture farming and make 3D printer filament/plastic pellets, the shredded plastic is then combined with sphagnum peat moss to develop a heavy metal water filtration system aimed at mining and industrial pollution.

ReuseLoop NL

ReuseLoop NL is a digital reuse and redistribution platform that helps students, households, and small businesses in Newfoundland and Labrador keep usable items out of landfill by connecting them with local buyers, nonprofits, repairers, and recyclers.

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.