Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, the federally backed organization that cost-shares with the private sector on research and development initiatives, has put out a call for new project proposals.

In a press release, the Supercluster said the callout is aimed at helping solve talent supply and growth problems for small and medium-sized ocean businesses. Any projects are required to have a planned completion date of March 31, 2023 at the latest.

In order to qualify for the Impact program, projects must help address skilled labour supply issues in the ocean economy via domestic recruitment efforts; facilitate international recruitment of senior executives; encourage career-advancement by existing ocean sector workers; and advance leadership opportunities for minority groups.

“When we look at the trajectory of growth in the global ocean economy, we know Canada has the potential to play a significant role in the development of solutions that support both greater ocean health and productivity,” said Melody Pardoe, the Supercluster’s Chief Engagement Officer, in a press release. “In order to do this, we must build an expanded, more diverse ocean network where SMEs are well-supported with greater access to strategic and critical talent needed to play a leadership role in the future of our ocean.”

Interested businesses can submit an application here. The deadline is Feb. 21 at 4:00 p.m. Atlantic time, and the Supercluster will host an online information session Jan. 27 at 2:00 p.m. Entrepreneurs can email OLIP@oceansupercluster.ca to register.