Atlantic Canada is reinforcing its ambition to become a global hub for aquaculture innovation with the launch of a new Innovation Studio designed to help companies scale more rapidly, attract investment and commercialise technologies developed in the region.
As global demand for sustainable protein and ocean-based solutions continues to grow, regions that combine marine science, industry infrastructure and entrepreneurial talent are becoming increasingly competitive. Atlantic Canada already possesses strong research and aquaculture expertise. The next step is translating that strength into scalable aquaculture technology companies rooted in the region.
The Atlantic Canada Aquaculture Studio, delivered by Hatch Blue in partnership with Oceans Advance, will launch this July in St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Funded by the Government of Canada through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, the programme will support high-potential aquaculture, aquatech and marine biotechnology companies that are ready to move beyond early validation and into growth.
“Atlantic Canada has every ingredient needed to lead the next wave of global aquaculture innovation – world-class science, deep ocean expertise and a growing community of ambitious technology companies. The launch of the Atlantic Canada Aquaculture Studio marks a pivotal moment for our region. We are creating the conditions for company founders to accelerate their ideas, attract investment and build scalable companies right here at home. This studio is about more than supporting entrepreneurs – it is about positioning Atlantic Canada as a global centre for aquaculture technology and shaping the future of sustainable, ocean-based food systems,” said Shelly Petten, CEO of Oceans Advance.
The studio will support up to ten companies through a nine-month founder-focused programme combining in-person workshops, industry engagement and investment readiness support. It will provide mentoring, industry connections and guidance on securing investment. Participation is offered at no cost and without taking equity.
“We run aquaculture innovation programmes around the world, and Atlantic Canada stands out. Alongside its deep seafood heritage, what is notable here is the strong government support and regulatory environment that enables aquaculture to grow. For founders building the next generation of aquaculture technologies, this creates a real opportunity to build companies, attract investment and scale globally from the region,” said Dylan Terry, Studio Director, Hatch Blue.
As global demand for sustainable ocean-based protein continues to rise, Canada’s Atlantic region aims to position itself not only as a producer of seafood, but also as a centre for the technologies and companies shaping the future of aquaculture.
To apply, visit: https://www.hatch.blue/programs/atlantic-canada-aquaculture-studio-2026
