In Atlantic Canada, the ocean not only creates good jobs, but is an important part of the region's culture and identity. That is why the Government of Canada is helping the Huntsman Marine Science Centre (Huntsman) provide aquatic science activities to grow the ocean economy in New Brunswick.
Support for ocean sector development
Gudie Hutchings, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, today announced a federal investment of more than $525,000 to St. Andrews-based Huntsman Marine Science Centre.
The Government of Canada will support the non-profit group to continue its extensive work in research, education and tourism, focused on aquatic science. As well, the Government of Canada is making a contribution to help Huntsman pursue industry development activities that will generate new opportunities for New Brunswick SMEs in the ocean economy.
PS Hutchings made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages.
Today's announcement further demonstrates the Government of Canada's commitment to help businesses grow, reach new markets, drive innovation and strengthen the region's growing ocean economy.
Quotes
"In these uncertain times, we want Canadian organizations to know that we have their backs. I am proud that our government is helping the Huntsman Marine Science Centre further its vision, build on its successes, and take advantage of new opportunities."
- The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages and Minister responsible for ACOA
"Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development projected that the global ocean economy would reach more than $4 trillion by 2030. This global growth represents great opportunity for Canada. Today's support for the well-established research and teaching institution, Huntsman Marine Science Centre is a step in the right direction for future growth."
- Gudie Hutchings, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development
"Huntsman has a storied history working in and for the ocean economy since 1969. Our efforts are greatly enhanced following this generous government investment. We are certainly looking towards the future - we have a number of developments on the horizon post-pandemic that will further build our presence and impact in the ocean's economy."
- Chris Bridger, Executive Director, Huntsman Marine Science Centre
Quick facts
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The Huntsman Marine Science Centre is a research and teaching institution located near the mouth of the Bay of Fundy in St. Andrews. The Centre conducts research, educational initiatives and tourism activities, focused on aquatic science. The non-profit group is the largest year-round private employer in St. Andrews.
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The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is providing a non-repayable contribution of $345,143 to Huntsman to help the organization continue its work and mitigate any economic hardships brought by the pandemic.
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The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is also contributing a non-repayable contribution of $182,600 to Huntsman to undertake industry development activities in the ocean economy.
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Government of Canada funding for these projects is provided through ACOA's Regional Economic Growth through Innovation (REGI) program. The first project was streamed through the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRRF), which provides assistance to businesses and communities that may require additional support to cope with and recover from the pandemic. The RRRF is part of Canada's COVID-19 Economic Response Plan.
