Category: #Posts

econext seeking businesses looking to better understand their environmental impacts

Posted on by Alex Rumbolt

Are you a business looking to better understand your environmental impacts?

Throughout 2025-2026, econext will be working with 25 businesses across the province to quantify environmental impacts by helping them to undertake greenhouse gas (GHG) assessments, energy efficiency analysis, and waste audits. econext will engage experts to work on each of these assessments.

Following the acquisition of this information, econext will provide tailored advice for each business on the steps that they can take to “green” their operations in a way which helps improve competitiveness and productivity. Having this information in hand will help small-to-medium businesses (SMEs) make decisions about future “green” investments; help with establishing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) commitments; and serve to be powerful tools in marketing.

Contribution

Thanks to funding from the Department of Industry, Energy and Technology and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, econext is pleased to cover 75% of the costs. It is estimated that the total cost of providing these services is $10,000 on average, depending on the scope and size of the business.

Selection Criteria

To be eligible for participation, businesses must meet the following criteria:

  • Have operations in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Be one of the following: involved in a supply chain, exporting internationally, or expecting to try to attract private investment
  • Have the capacity to help acquire data necessary for the assessments
  • Cannot be involved in retail or provision of personal services

It is also important that participating businesses have ownership of their buildings for this project, as this will allow them to make changes based on the findings to improve environmental impact (ie. increasing energy efficiency and decreasing GHG emissions).

If your business sounds like a good fit, or if you have questions and would like to learn more, reach out to Business Sustainability Lead, Alex Rumbolt at alex@econext.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/.

Environmentally Sustainable Concepts For Commerce

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Going environmentally sustainable in the business realm has been a hot topic for many years. Businesses and industries have been challenged by investors and their end users to become more engaged in the pursuit of net-zero emissions, reduction of waste, and finding ways to use more renewable energy sources.

The underlying benefit to business in improved bottom lines is achievable through many means. The greatest success stories in environmentally sustainable operations and development of energy efficient practices sometimes go under the radar. This FREE virtual workshop seeks to tackle ways to find savings through going environmentally sustainable , and outlining your firm’s eco-friendly credentials.

Join RBC and econext on Wednesday June 11th from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM NDT for an immersive look at two key concepts: utilizing existing programs to find energy efficiency savings no matter what sector you operate in, and compiling and publicizing your company’s approach to Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG).

RBC is pleased to bring together econext, takeCHARGE, Carbonhound, and Memorial University Business School in one event to show clients ways to make environmentally sustainable choices and publicize the good work you do.

Register today! Participants will be e-mailed the meeting link in the days prior to the event. If you have any questions about this session, please reach out to Colin Heffernan at econext (heffernan@econext.ca or (709) 979-0423).

Register now

econext insights: Clean Fuels Adoption in NL’s Marine Transportation Sector

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Newfoundland and Labrador is positioned to lead in the clean energy transition, and marine transportation and port operations are key sectors in that shift. Join econext for an engaging online workshop as part of our newest series as we explore the opportunities and challenges of adopting clean fuels across these critical industries.

This session builds on the findings of econext’s recently published discussion paper and invites participants to help refine and validate those insights through real-world perspectives. We’ll take a close look at the technical, economic, and environmental dimensions of clean fuel use, with a focus on what’s possible—and what’s needed—in a Newfoundland and Labrador context.

If you’re a stakeholder in marine operations, port infrastructure, energy, or policy, your input is vital. This is a chance to collaborate with peers, share your expertise, and help shape the next steps in advancing clean fuels in the province. Join the conversation and be part of a growing movement to chart a cleaner, more sustainable future for Newfoundland and Labrador.

Register now

This event is made possible through the support of Natural Resources Canada / Ressources naturelles Canada.

RFP – Community Efficiency Financing: Brand and Website Development

Posted on by Chelsie Cake

Background

econext, a non-profit association working to accelerate clean growth in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), is currently in the process of launching a new residential retrofit program in St. John’s, NL. This initiative is designed to help homeowners improve energy efficiency through energy audits, guided support and low-interest financing. econext will also facilitate industry training to support capacity building. By helping residents navigate retrofits while reducing financial barriers, this program will help more homeowners take action to improve energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and reduce their environmental footprint.

Objective

The objective of this scope of work is to create a compelling visual identity, and develop an accessible website that drives engagement from the public and industry professionals. This website will be a key piece of the application process, and will host information and FAQs for interested parties to learn more and assess their own benefits.

The deadline for proposals is 4:30 PM NDT May 21, 2025.

Download RFP

Please Note: An updated copy of the RFP was released on May 16, 2025. 



Questions and Answers

Answers provided by econext relating to the RFP will be posted here.

What is econext‘s role in this program, will they be providing the loans and energy audits?

econext will be facilitating and helping guide homeowners through the retrofit process, by connecting them with the appropriate parties to offer these services. econext will not be conducting the energy audits or financial services itself. Further information on the program’s process will be discussed with the successful applicant.

Who will be the main audience for this initiative? 

The primary audience for this program will be homeowners based in the St. John’s area. econext will also work to engage those in the industry who may be involved in the home renovation process, to make them aware of the service and the benefits to themselves or their clients.

Will econext be offering renovation grants through this program? 

No. econext will work to help make participants aware of existing grants or supports, and assist them in applying to relevant initiatives.

How closely should the new brand align with econext’s existing visual identity?

This brand must be able to be a subset of econext’s activities and stand apart from the main econext brand in order for the program to be scalable.

Will the vendor need to be located within Canada, or can the work be completed from international locations?

Vendors may be based internationally; however, they must maintain a Canadian-based office to ensure effective communication and facilitate meetings across time zones. econext is headquartered in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Will the vendor be required to build a cost-saving calculator from scratch? Are there any other details you can provide about this feature?

For the purpose of this proposal, proponents can exclude this scope of work.

Is there a budget allocation for this project?

We are asking interested vendors to propose a price based on the scope of work outlined.

 

Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Energy Mapping & CEEP Workshop – Stephenville

Posted on by kieran


Location: Stephenville
Date: May 14, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (local time)

As part of the Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Project with partnership with QUEST Canada, this full-day, in-person workshop will focus on:

  • Mapping current community-wide energy use and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Identifying opportunities for energy efficiency and emissions reduction
  • Laying the groundwork for a Community Energy and Emissions Plan (CEEP)
  • Exploring local strategies to support clean growth and net-zero targets

This session will bring together municipal staff, local stakeholders, and community organizations to support Stephenville’s transition toward a more sustainable, climate-resilient future. Additional details, including venue information, will be shared as they are confirmed.

For more information, please contact Sara Jafari at mailto:sara@econext.ca.

Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Energy Mapping & CEEP Workshop – Corner Brook

Posted on by kieran


Location: Corner Brook
Date: May 13, 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (local time)

As part of the Net Zero Community Accelerator (NCA) Project with partnership with QUEST Canada, this full-day, in-person workshop will focus on:

  • Mapping current community-wide energy use and greenhouse gas emissions
  • Identifying opportunities for energy efficiency and emissions reduction
  • Laying the groundwork for a Community Energy and Emissions Plan (CEEP)
  • Exploring local strategies to support clean growth and net-zero targets

This session will bring together municipal staff, local stakeholders, and community organizations to support Corner Brook’s pathway toward a low-carbon, sustainable future. More details, including the confirmed venue, will be shared as they become available.

For more information, please contact Sara Jafari at mailto:sara@econext.ca.

Green Roots – Corner Brook Edition

Posted on by Chelsie Cake


Empowering Careers in the Green Economy – Corner Brook Edition

 

Are you 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 the workshop not mandatory for program participation, it is highly encouraged to give applicants the best chance at securing an internship.

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Upcoming Events

Workshop: Green Career Development and Training Session
Location: AS375, MUN Grenfell Campus, Corner Brook
Date: Thursday, March 19, 2026: | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Employment Open House
Location: City Hall, Corner Brook
Date: Friday, March 20, 2026 | 10:00 a.m.

RSVP Here

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Supported by

 

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.

WORKSHOP: Opportunities for Digital, Remote, and Autonomous Operations in Clean Energy

Posted on by kieran

Date: March 18, 2025
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Location: Co. Innovation Centre | 710 Torbay Rd (Suite A), St. John’s NL A1A 5G9

At this workshop, SEM Ltd. will present on recent research undertaken examining the potential for the application and development of digital, remote, and autonomous operations technologies within Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy industry. A facilitated discussion will follow to help better define priorities and explore potential collaborative industry-led research and development projects.

Workshop Objective:

To advance a conversation locally on the potential for innovation within Newfoundland and Labrador’s clean energy industry relating to digital, remote, and autonomous operations.

Ideal Workshop Participants:

Representatives from businesses within the province who develop and/or provide digital, remote, and/or autonomous operations technologies or services who are curious about their potential application within Newfoundland and Labrador’s emerging clean energy industry.

Registration

Participation is free, but registration is required.

>Register Now!

WEBINAR – Preventing Financial Fraud for Small Businesses

Posted on by Colin Heffernan

Join econext and TD as we explore ways to protect your organization from financial fraud. Staff from TD Commercial Banking will provide an overview of the current fraud landscape, identify the current schemes used by fraudsters, and present concrete actions businesses can take to implement controls to help combat fraud.

A short, moderated Q&A will follow this FREE presentation brought to you by econext and TD!

Date: Wednesday April 2, 2025
Time: 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM
Location: Zoom
Cost: FREE!

Click Here to Register