The Seaweed Innovation Hub

Investigating key questions about seaweed seed production in support of optimizing seaweed nursery parameters and innovating new methods of seed production to support the growth of the seaweed sector in British Columbia.

Project Dates: April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2027

Funding Amount: $1,281,665

Number of Student Researchers: 4

Project Summary

NIC’s Seaweed Innovation Hub (SIH) builds on a decade of research and innovation led by our Centre for Applied Research, Technology and Innovation. The SIH provides cutting-edge, cross-sector innovation support; state-of-the-art field, lab, and processing equipment; and knowledge transfer and training to First Nations, industry and community organizations.

The SIH will collaborate with small and medium size enterprises, rights holders, stakeholders, communities, and organizations to support projects that will enhance seed production, increase processing capacity, conduct market analyses, and develop new products to boost the sector's global competitiveness. With Vancouver Island’s rich seaweed biodiversity, skilled workforce, and local Indigenous communities engaged in seaweed business development, this region is well-positioned for growth in this sector.

Mini-courses and industry training in seaweed production, processing, and commercialization have resulted from the knowledge gained in research and innovation projects.

Critical to the hub is a seaweed bioreactor purchased from Victoria-based Industrial Plankton. The bioreactor allows CARTI to further support the growing seaweed sector in BC with research and innovation efforts. This equipment enables predictable and continuous seed supply, improved quality control, increased yields, and new efficiencies in seaweed seed production.

Seaweed offers unique opportunities for social and economic innovation. The Seaweed Innovation Hub will have significant impact on the British Columbia seaweed sector by addressing industry needs, promoting innovation, building capacity, and fostering economic growth while positioning Canada as an innovator in this blue economy sector that is well-positioned to have global impact.