Canada backs AI-enabled aquaculture technology project to grow $159B ocean economy

New aquaculture technology project uses AI-powered cameras and advanced sensors to monitor fish health and improve farm efficiency

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, an industry-led, national ocean cluster supported by the federal, has announced more than $12 million (U.S. $8 million) in new funding for three ocean innovation projects, including a $5.9 million (U.S. $4.2 million) initiative focused on improving fish health and monitoring in aquaculture.

Unveiled at the Ambition 2035 Summit in Ottawa, the Enhanced Aquaculture Technology for Marine Health Project is led by Grieg Seafood Newfoundland in partnership with Innovasea of Bedford, Nova Scotia.

“Sustainable aquaculture is an important economic area of growth globally that contributes to climate action priorities and commitments under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” said Kendra MacDonald, CEO, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster. “By co-investing in innovative technologies that improve fish health, we’re enhancing operational efficiency, creating new revenue streams, contributing to our own food security, and helping feed the world.”

The project aims to improve fish welfare through the deployment of advanced hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) sensors and AI-enabled camera systems for real-time monitoring. Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is contributing $2.3 million ($1.6 million) to the initiative, with the remaining funding provided by project partners.

The project aims to improve operational efficiency in aquaculture by deploying advanced monitoring technologies that enable more precise, real-time oversight of fish health and environmental conditions. By reducing stock losses and supporting higher yields, the initiative is expected to strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in sustainable aquaculture technology.

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Canada’s Ocean Supercluster aims to grow the country’s ocean economy fivefold to $220 billion (U.S. $159 billion) by 2035. Continued investment in the development and commercialization of Canadian ocean technologies – including the newly announced projects – is central to reaching this goal. Recommendations for enabling this growth are outlined in Charting the Course to 5X Growth in Canada’s Ocean Economy.

“The Ambition 2035 Summit and Grieg Seafood’s project, supported by the Ocean Supercluster, one of our Global Innovation Clusters, align with the Government of Canada’s commitment to building a stronger and more resilient Canada,” said Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. “We are working together toward a more sustainable and prosperous future – one where healthy, thriving ocean ecosystems remain at the heart of our vision for generations to come.”