Halifax strengthened its position as a global centre for innovation this June by hosting two of Canada’s premier marine technology events: H2O: Home to Overseas Conference and COVE Demo Day 2025.
Together, these back-to-back events highlighted Atlantic Canada’s strategic role in the global marine economy, drawing international participation and showcasing the region’s capacity to drive commercialization, foster cross-border collaboration, and advance high-impact marine technologies on the world stage.
Charting a Decade of Progress: The 2025 H2O Conference
From June 10–11, the Halifax Convention Centre welcomed attendees from around the globe for the 10th anniversary of the H2O Conference, presented by the Ocean Technology Council of Nova Scotia (OTCNS). Now a mainstay in Canada’s marine technology calendar, the conference celebrated a decade of thought leadership and industry advancement.
This year’s agenda featured a dynamic range of panels and presentations on critical matters in the sector—from marine carbon dioxide removal and ocean resilience to marine electrification, subsea power delivery, and rapid prototyping. Through expert-led panels and deep-dive presentations, attendees explored the technologies and strategies needed to address emerging challenges head-on.
Among the organizations taking part was COVE, joined by several of its resident companies and strategic partners, including Invest Nova Scotia, Enginuity Inc., Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), SEATAC, Kongsberg Discovery, Pro-Oceanus Systems, Cellula Robotics Ltd., Sensor Technology LTD, SEAMOR Marine Ltd., and Rockland Scientific.
“The H2O Conference underscores the global relevance of Atlantic Canada’s marine sector,” said James Kesten, Director | Venture Growth at COVE. “It was an invaluable opportunity to engage with international leaders, explore emerging technologies, and strengthen the cross-border partnerships that drive commercial growth and innovation in the marine industry.”
Where Innovation Meets the Ocean: COVE Demo Day 2025
Just one day later, on June 12, the innovation wave continued as COVE Demo Day 2025 brought more than 600 attendees and 50 companies to the COVE facility for a full day of live demonstrations, technology showcases, and direct engagement with some of the most innovative solutions shaping the future of the global marine sector.
Spanning three themed platforms —the Showcase Stage, Blue Stage, and Innovation Stage—Demo Day delivered a dynamic look at the technologies pushing the boundaries of what’s possible at sea. The Showcase and Blue Stages featured live on-water demonstrations of autonomous vessels, surveillance drones, buoys, and unmanned surface vehicles, offering an up-close look at defence, ocean monitoring, and sustainability applications in action.
Inside, the Innovation Stage hosted a lineup of presentations tackling topics like underwater security, advanced sonar systems, maritime domain awareness, and the integration of uncrewed aerial systems into marine operations.
Attendees also explored Tech Alley, where six dedicated tents— including featured spaces for the DIANA and Innovate UK cohorts — hosted tabletop exhibits and networking opportunities with company representatives. From early-stage ventures to established industry leaders, Tech Alley offered a hands-on opportunity to engage with the innovators and international partners driving forward the next generation of marine technology.
Throughout the day, guests had the opportunity to tour the COVE facility and learn about initiatives like the COVE Start-Up Yard and the Stella Maris Testing Solution, which help advance commercialization and marine innovation.
Media coverage from CBC News added national attention to the day, spotlighting COVE resident company Open Ocean Robotics, which demonstrated its autonomous, remotely operated marine vehicle capable of being monitored in real-time from anywhere in the world. The featured aired on the evening news, helping to amplify the reach and visibility of Demo Day beyond the COVE site. You can view the segment HERE, starting at 14:23.
Powering the Future of Marine Technology
Demo Day’s success was made possible thanks to generous support from Innovate UK, Thales Canada, Innovasea, and DeepSense as well as event supporters, DIANA, Discovery Centre, Halifax Chamber of Commerce, Irving Shipbuilding Inc., SEATAC, and conference partner OTCNS.
“COVE Demo Day goes beyond a traditional showcase, it’s a driving force for growth,’ said Emily MacPherson, Director | Marketing and Communications at COVE. “It brings together innovative solutions and key stakeholders, creating real opportunities for commercial success.”
Together, the H2O Conference and COVE Demo Day offered strategic insights into the future of the marine industry, showcasing emerging technologies, commercial opportunities, and global collaboration. With a rapidly growing ecosystem of innovators and international partners, Halifax remains a vital hub advancing Canada’s leadership in marine technology. The momentum from Demo Day highlights the sector’s significant growth potential, and COVE is dedicated to fostering innovation and maintaining its role as a leader in this dynamic industry.
Photo credits: Michelle Doucette Photography
