The Ocean Enterprise business cluster, also known as the ‘New Blue Economy’, is considered knowledge-based activities that support the harnessing of marine resources for economic growth. These companies play an increasingly important role in delivering innovative products and services to address challenges around food security, climate change, and the provision of energy and natural resources. COVE is measuring Canada’s dynamic and growing Ocean Enterprise sector with the benchmark 2020 study and the 2022 follow-up report.

The Student Intentions and Perceptions Studies provide insights from students in grades 3 – 6 in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Mi’Kmaq schools regarding careers in the ocean sector. In 2019, COVE surveyed the original cohort of Nova Scotia youth (now in grades 9-12) to determine if and how attitudes and perceptions have changed or evolved in the interim years and determine if there is evidence of strategic influence from career counselling initiatives and efforts.

The BEST ON study collected a foundational dataset on Ontario high school students’ perspectives on their connection to the ocean and water, future careers, and Canada’s growing Blue Economy.

The Nova Scotia’s Opportunity for Marine Electrification Study identifies Nova Scotia’s strong potential to deliver vessel electrification technology to Atlantic Canada and the global market, with COVE poised to enable local firms to grasp the commercial opportunity and accelerate the pace of electric vessel adoption.

COVE internships provide a new stream of talent for ocean tech companies and introduce students and recent graduates to career opportunities within the Blue Economy.

The COVE Internship Reports highlight the success of the COVE Internship Pilot in 2020 and the expanded program in 2021.

The Competency Assessment and Workforce Study provides insight into the skills and competencies employers are looking for when hiring employees in the ocean sector.

This 2015 report benchmarks the workforce challenges, needs and opportunties for the greater marine industry.

This report provides valuable insights on how educational institutions can increase participation of employers and increase workplace opportunities for students.

COVE leads and exemplifies equity, diversity, and inclusion in everything we do, from research, programming and resources.