Canada’s Innovation Superclusters Initiative is a federal program launched in 2018 to drive large-scale innovation through regional industry clusters. Backed by a $950 million investment over five years, this initiative set out to bring together businesses, startups, academia, and non-profits to collaborate on developing and commercializing high-potential technologies . In essence, the government challenged industry to form consortia (“superclusters”) in areas where Canada has strengths – each cluster matching federal funds with industry co-investment to spur R&D, business growth, and job creation. The result was five industry-led innovation hubs across the country, each focused on a strategic sector: Digital Technology, Protein Industries, Advanced Manufacturing, Scale AI, and Ocean industries . These five clusters (recently rebranded as “Global Innovation Clusters”) are independent non-profit organizations that fund collaborative projects, build innovation ecosystems, and help Canadian companies scale up . Below, we provide an overview of the Superclusters initiative and a closer look at each cluster, followed by why they matter for entrepreneurs/investors and how to choose the right one for you.

What Is the Innovation Superclusters Initiative?

In 2017–2018, Canada identified key industries where a push in innovation could yield global leadership. The Innovation Superclusters Initiative (ISI) was born, aiming to “promote large-scale collaboration among industry leaders, small to medium-sized businesses, and post-secondary institutions” to develop and scale new technologies . Each supercluster is member-driven (open to companies of all sizes, research institutions, indigenous groups, and others) and co-funded by industry. The structure is unique: rather than traditional grants, superclusters use a co-investment model – federal funds are matched by industry dollars (at least 1:1.2 initially, but achieving about 1:1.6 in practice ) – to support collaborative projects. This approach “de-risks” innovation by sharing costs and expertise, enabling projects that no single firm could tackle alone . Each cluster operates in a specific region and sector focus, but membership and project participation are pan-Canadian. 

The Five Superclusters

The five original Superclusters and their primary sectors are:

• Digital Technology Supercluster – based in British Columbia (Vancouver) focusing on digital tech (software, data, VR/AR, etc.) .
  
  

• Protein Industries Supercluster – based in the Prairie provinces (headquartered in Regina, Saskatchewan) focusing on plant-based proteins and agrifood innovation .
  
  

• Next Generation Manufacturing Supercluster (NGen) – based in Ontario, focusing on advanced manufacturing technologies .
  
  

• Scale AI Supercluster – based in Quebec (Montreal), focusing on artificial intelligence applied to supply chains .
  
  

• Ocean Supercluster – based in Atlantic Canada (St. John’s, Newfoundland and Halifax, Nova Scotia), focusing on ocean industries (marine tech, fisheries, etc.) .
  
  
  

The Superclusters program: Purpose and Objectives

The Superclusters program seeks to boost innovation ecosystems in these domains by clustering talent and resources. The goals include developing new IP and products, scaling startups, fostering partnerships, upskilling workers, and ultimately growing Canada’s economy in these sectors . By 2025, the clusters have collectively approved 615 projects with over 3,200 industry and academic partners (over half are startups/SMEs) and $3 billion+ in industry co-investment alongside $1.15 billion federal funding.

Early results show hundreds of new products or processes developed and thousands of jobs created, with a forecast of $13–16 billion in GDP impact by 2035. Perhaps more important than the numbers, the Superclusters have established vibrant innovation networks: over 10,000 members engaged across Canada, far exceeding initial targets . In short, this initiative has catalyzed collaboration on a national scale, positioning Canada as a global innovation leader in the five chosen domains.

Digital Technology Supercluster (DIGITAL)

As one of the five superclusters established under the Innovation Superclusters Initiative, DIGITAL represents Canada's commitment to leveraging digital technologies for economic growth and technological advancement across key sectors.

Location and Scope Within the Innovation Superclusters Initiative

The Digital Technology Supercluster (branded simply as “DIGITAL”) is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, and draws on Western Canada’s strong tech sector . It has a national scope – member organizations span the country – but a concentration in B.C.’s thriving tech ecosystem.

Focus Areas

As the name suggests, DIGITAL accelerates development and adoption of cutting-edge digital technologies that address major challenges in health, climate, and economic productivity, while building up Canada’s digital talent pool . Key technology focuses include virtual/augmented reality (VR/AR), data analytics, and quantum computing . In practice, the cluster emphasizes applied projects in areas like digital health, precision agriculture and natural resources (using data/IoT to boost sustainability), and skill development for the digital economy . For example, DIGITAL has dedicated program streams in Digital Health (data-driven healthcare innovation), Environmental Health (tech for sustainable resource industries), and Talent (upskilling and diversity in tech) . This aligns with the cluster’s broader mission to help Canadians stay healthy, fight climate change, and build a highly skilled digital workforce .

Key Programs and Projects

One notable initiative is Athena Pathways, a program to close the gender gap in AI and tech. Through Athena, the cluster connected 500 women with AI education, mentorship, and internships, helping to foster more women in data science and AI roles . This reflects DIGITAL’s ecosystem-building role beyond pure technology projects. Another hallmark is DIGITAL’s consortium model that requires including end-users (customers) in projects to ensure solutions meet market needs .

For example, the cluster funded a $20 million digital wellness project called Wellbeing.ai, led by Vancouver-based apparel giant Lululemon in partnership with startup Wysdom.AI, Microsoft, Mitacs and Queen’s University . This project is creating an AI-powered “virtual wellness coach” – essentially chatbot agents that help users track and improve their mental and physical health. The federal Digital Supercluster invested $8.5M, with industry partners contributing the rest . Such a collaboration highlights how the cluster brings together a homegrown global brand (Lululemon) with a Canadian AI startup (Wysdom) and academic expertise to build a novel product . Other DIGITAL-supported projects have ranged from telehealth platforms (e.g. virtual wound care for patients ) to AI for natural resource management. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Digital Supercluster rapidly launched projects for virtual healthcare and skills training, investing over $60 million in a COVID-19 program . By incorporating end-users and focusing on real-world problems, DIGITAL ensures these innovations can be commercialized quickly.

Private Sector Partners and Members

DIGITAL’s network includes major tech players and startups. Notable members and collaborators have included Microsoft, Telus, LifeLabs, and academic partners like UBC. Its projects often feature B.C.-based tech companies (e.g., Dapper Labs in blockchain, Terramera in ag-tech) working with larger enterprises. The Lululemon partnership above is one example of a big industry partner; another project saw Ideon Technologies (a startup) and Calabrio use AI in mining and customer service, respectively . As of 2024, DIGITAL had over 1,000 members and continues to grow its network.

Recent Developments and Economic Growth Impact

The Digital Supercluster was originally allocated up to $298 million in federal funding , which it has leveraged with industry co-funding. As of March 2024, DIGITAL and its partners have launched dozens of projects, contributing to Canada’s leadership in areas like ethical AI, digital twins, and quantum technology . The cluster has also entered a second phase under the new Global Innovation Clusters program. Notably, DIGITAL received additional funding to drive quantum commercialization, partnering with the Advanced Manufacturing cluster on new quantum tech projects (supported by a $14 million federal investment under Canada’s National Quantum Strategy) . In 2023–24, DIGITAL reported “significant strides in AI, digital health, and resource sustainability” through its projects . It has positioned itself as a hub for AI adoption in Canada – for instance, several of its projects contributed to Canada’s Pan-Canadian AI Strategy goals . For entrepreneurs, DIGITAL’s impact is tangible: it’s created collaboration opportunities that helped small companies access big customers and scale new products quickly in the digital space. Expect continued focus on AI (the cluster is involved in a new $78M AI adoption initiative ) and on training talent (hundreds of students and workers have received digital skills training through cluster programs).

In summary, the Digital Technology Supercluster is all about leveraging Canada’s world-class strengths in software, AI, and data – particularly in Western Canada – to create technologies that improve health, sustainability, and economic growth. It offers entrepreneurs a pathway to join large collaborative projects (with funding support) and a network that spans from tech giants to innovative startups.

Protein Industries Canada Supercluster (Protein Industries Canada)

As one of the five superclusters, Protein Industries Canada focuses on transforming agriculture and food production through innovation.

Location and Scope Within the Innovation Superclusters Initiative

Protein Industries Canada (PIC) – often just called the Protein Supercluster – is based in the Prairies (headquartered in Regina, Saskatchewan). Its reach is national, but it leverages Western Canada’s agricultural heartland. The Prairies grow a huge share of Canada’s canola, wheat, and pulses, making this cluster a natural fit for the region’s economy.

Focus Areas

This supercluster focuses on advancing Canada’s plant-based food and feed sector. The goal is to “increase the value of key Canadian crops – such as canola, wheat and pulses – and serve growing global markets for plant-based meat alternatives and new food products”. In practice, Protein Industries Canada funds innovation across the entire agri-food value chain “from field to fork.” This includes crop genetics and seed breeding, farming practices, ingredient processing (e.g. turning peas into protein isolates), food formulation, and supply chain traceability . By embracing new technologies (like genomics, AI, and novel processing methods), the cluster aims to make Canada a world leader in plant proteins and sustainable food. A concrete industry target underpinning PIC is the “Road to $25 Billion”: a sector-wide strategy to grow Canada’s plant-based food and ingredient sales to $25 billion annually by 2035 . The cluster’s projects and investments are geared toward achieving this growth – which would mean more jobs, new companies, and more food innovation in Canada.

Key Programs and Projects

Protein Industries Canada has several focus streams for its technology projects: Genetics (improving crop germplasm for better protein traits), Crops (smart, sustainable farming to increase yields and data flow), Ingredients (developing and scaling new plant protein ingredients), and Products (creating new consumer-ready foods from Canadian ingredients). This full-spectrum approach ensures innovation at each step – from improved seeds to high-value food products.

One example project: PIC co-invested in a $7.9 million plant-based food initiative to use Canadian crops in alternative meat and dairy. In this project, Winnipeg-based Merit Functional Foods (which produces pea and canola protein isolates) partnered with Daiya Foods (a BC company known for plant-based cheese), TWC Nutrition, and Grand River Foods to develop new products using Merit’s pea and canola proteins . Protein Industries Canada covered about half the cost . The collaboration not only creates novel foods (like better meat substitutes and dairy alternatives) but also benefits farmers by increasing demand for Canadian peas and canola . It’s a great example of how the cluster links upstream agriculture with downstream food processing and consumer brands. Another PIC project supported Merit Functional Foods in building a cutting-edge protein processing plant in Manitoba, which now produces the world’s first high-purity canola protein isolate . This facility (a joint venture with Burcon Nutrascience) was enabled by cluster funding and is creating jobs while commercializing new Canadian IP in food ingredients .

Beyond product innovation, PIC also runs initiatives to strengthen the ecosystem. For instance, recognizing labor shortages in agri-food, the cluster offers reskilling programs to engage Indigenous and under-represented groups in the agri-food workforce, often partnering with colleges across Canada . It also established a Centre for Regulatory Innovation to help agri-food companies navigate complex regulations, fast-track approvals, and work with regulators on novel products . These capacity-building efforts ensure that technical breakthroughs can successfully reach markets.

Private Sector Partners and Members

The Protein cluster’s membership spans farmers, food processors, ingredient companies, and AI/biotech startups. Notable industry partners include major agribusinesses like Maple Leaf Foods, Cargill and AGT Foods, as well as innovative startups (e.g., Merit Foods, Burcon, Farmer’s Edge) and research institutions (Universities of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, etc.). An interesting cross-cluster collaboration: PIC and the Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster (NGen) teamed up on a project led by Aspire Food Group, which is building a $72 million facility in Ontario to farm insects (crickets) for protein using automation and AI . PIC’s involvement ensured alignment with protein innovation, while NGen provided advanced manufacturing expertise – a sign of the clusters’ cooperative spirit. International partnerships are growing too: PIC has partnered with the UK’s agrifood programs, enabling Canadian ag-tech firms to collaborate overseas .

Recent Developments and Economic Growth Impact

Protein Industries Canada was initially allocated up to $323 million in federal funding – the largest of any supercluster . As of early 2024, PIC had co-invested in over 55 projects, with total project values exceeding $480 million (leveraging significant private investment) . The cluster has helped launch or scale numerous companies; by one count, it had invested $367 million (public + private) into Canada’s plant-based food, feed and ingredients sector as of 2021 . In 2025, the federal government provided an additional $15 million to PIC for new programs in genomics and artificial intelligence to boost agrifood innovation. These programs, launched in May 2025, focus on breeding better crops (through genomics tools) and deploying AI in farming and food processing – all aimed at a more resilient, efficient food supply chain . This fresh injection will help Canadian plant breeders and farmers develop high-performance crop varieties (especially pulses and cereals) and use AI for things like precision seeding, supply chain optimization, and food safety .

Another milestone: PIC projects have started yielding new commercial products. For example, Calgary-based Botaneco introduced novel canola protein ingredients, and Vancouver’s Nutriva (Daiya) launched improved plant-based foods as a direct result of cluster collaborations. The cluster is also making policy impact – it convened industry players to identify infrastructure and regulatory needs to hit the $25B goal, informing government strategy for the plant-protein sector. Overall, Protein Industries Canada is accelerating the Prairies-to-plate innovation engine. Entrepreneurs in ag-tech or food processing can tap into this cluster for funding, R&D partnerships, and connections to big agriculture players and global markets.

Next Generation Manufacturing Supercluster (NGen)

NGen drives advanced manufacturing innovation across Canada, positioning the country as a global leader in next-generation production technologies.

Location and Scope Within the Innovation Superclusters Initiative

The Advanced Manufacturing Supercluster, branded as Next Generation Manufacturing Canada (NGen), is centered in Ontario (with its main office in Hamilton, ON). It’s a pan-Canadian network but naturally engages a lot of Ontario’s manufacturing base (automotive, aerospace, steel, etc.) as well as strong manufacturing hubs in Quebec and the Prairies.

Focus Areas

NGen’s mission is to “strengthen the competitiveness and growth of Canada’s advanced manufacturing ecosystem” . This means helping manufacturers adopt cutting-edge technologies and processes to make world-leading products – and solve pressing challenges like supply chain security, healthcare needs, and climate change . Key technology focuses include automation and robotics, machine learning (AI) in manufacturing, advanced materials and additive manufacturing (3D printing), and cybersecurity for industry . Essentially, it’s about Industry 4.0: integrating digital tech and innovative processes on factory floors. NGen projects often involve developing new manufacturing techniques or scaling production of innovative products. The cluster’s vision also positions Canada as a “leading green supplier” to the world , highlighting an emphasis on clean technology and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Key Programs and Projects

NGen takes a five-pronged approach through program streams : (1) High-Potential Technology Development – developing and scaling game-changing manufacturing tech; (2) Groundbreaking Process Transformation – adopting advanced tech to revolutionize existing manufacturing processes; (3) Technology Diffusion – spreading new tech applications to more users (especially SMEs); (4) Ecosystem Development – building collaboration networks, testbeds, and training for manufacturing; and (5) SME Capacity Building – helping smaller manufacturers scale and participate in advanced projects . These streams ensure NGen not only funds R&D, but also addresses skills and ecosystem gaps in manufacturing.

One example project funded by NGen is a consortium led by space company MDA (famous for the Canadarm) with partners Promark Electronics and AV&R. NGen invested $4.9 million in this project to apply advanced automation and AI to manufacturing satellite components and electronics . MDA developed automated assembly and testing for satellite constellations, Promark worked on robotics for electronics assembly with AI-driven production planning, and AV&R created AI solutions for robotic task management . The total project value was about $11 million . This collaboration illustrates how NGen helps traditional industries (electronics, aerospace) integrate frontier tech (AI, robotics) to boost productivity. In the words of NGen’s CEO Jayson Myers, it shows NGen “facilitating initiatives whose outcomes present a strategic advantage for Canadian manufacturing… companies sharing knowledge and risk leading to transformative outcomes” .

Another flagship NGen project (in partnership with Protein Industries Canada) is Aspire Food Group’s new automated insect protein facility in London, ON. NGen committed $16.8 M (its largest project investment) to help Aspire build a highly automated plant to farm crickets for protein, using robotics, IoT sensors, and AI analytics . Several tech startups (Swift Labs, DarwinAI) and partners like Telus Agriculture joined this $72 M venture . The facility – now operational – is the world’s largest cricket production farm, illustrating how advanced manufacturing can unlock new sustainable food sources. It also created an R&D hub (Aspire set up a new lab due to this project) and is expected to position Canada as a leader in alternative protein processing . This cross-sector project shows NGen’s breadth: supporting anything from automotive parts to… bug farming, as long as it involves manufacturing innovation.

NGen also invests in ecosystem connectors. For example, it funded the Alberta Manufacturers & Exporters (MEE) Cluster initiative, which brought together dozens of Alberta SMEs to find business opportunities and share advanced manufacturing best practices . By connecting regional manufacturing clusters into NGen’s national network, a small machine shop in Alberta could collaborate with a tech provider in Ontario, etc. Additionally, to address the manufacturing skills gap, NGen offers workforce training and micro-credentials in partnership with colleges and online programs . It has even provided executive education for manufacturers to learn how to implement digital transformations .

Private Sector Partners and Members

NGen’s consortium members range from manufacturing giants to startups. Big names involved include Magna and Linamar (auto parts), Siemens and ABB (automation tech), Bombardier (aerospace), and material companies like Sherwin-Williams. A lot of SMEs (small & medium enterprises) participate, often bringing specialized tech – e.g., Rockwell Automation, Attabotics (robotic warehousing), Equispheres (3D printing powders). NGen also partners with research centers like NRC and many universities for testbed facilities. As of mid-2021, NGen had committed nearly two-thirds of its initial $230 M budget to projects, prompting it (along with the Digital and Protein clusters) to lobby for additional funding to continue beyond the initial program . This paid off: the Superclusters received top-ups, and NGen now continues under extended funding. In Budget 2024, for instance, the federal government announced $50 million for a new Homebuilding Technology Challenge led by NGen – recognizing NGen’s role in urgent challenges like housing.

Recent Developments and Economic Growth Impact

NGen had the largest initial allocation ($427 M) among superclusters , reflecting the broad scope of manufacturing. By 2024, NGen had approved over 165 projects, engaging 1,100+ organizations (over 780 of which are SMEs) . These projects span diverse sectors: automotive electrification, biomedical manufacturing (e.g., scaling production of vaccines and medical isotopes), clean tech (like carbon fiber recycling), and advanced construction. A very timely initiative in 2024–25 is the Advanced Manufacturing Homebuilding Consortium. In March 2025, NGen launched 12 projects under a $95 M program to transform Canada’s housing construction via advanced manufacturing . NGen invested $33 M (with $62 M from industry) in consortia working on modular construction, robotics for homebuilding, 3D printing of building components, and prefabricated housing solutions across the country . This program aims to help build homes faster, cheaper, greener – addressing Canada’s housing shortage by tripling construction speed and cutting costs 50% through innovation . Partners in these projects include construction firms, prefab manufacturers, and tech providers (for example, a project in Québec is using robotics for modular wood construction, another in Ontario focuses on mass timber automated production) . The Homebuilding Challenge highlights how entrepreneurs and SMEs can find opportunities in NGen: out of 33 partners in the first cohort, many are innovative SMEs bringing new tech to the construction industry .

In summary, NGen is propelling Canada’s industrial sector into the future. It’s highly relevant for any entrepreneur with a new manufacturing technology or a product that needs scaling up. Through NGen, a small robotics startup can team with a large manufacturer to pilot their tech, or a factory can get help adopting AI to boost efficiency. For investors, NGen’s projects signal where cutting-edge manufacturing is headed – from AI-enhanced factories to sustainable production – offering a pipeline of commercialization-ready innovations.

Scale AI Supercluster (AI-Powered Supply Chains)

Scale AI specializes in applying artificial intelligence to revolutionize supply chain management and logistics across Canadian industries.

Location and Scope Within the Innovation Superclusters Initiative

Scale AI is Canada’s AI-focused supercluster, based in Montreal, Quebec. Montreal is known as an AI research hotspot, and Scale AI builds on that strength. Its mandate is national (it has offices or representation in other cities like Toronto as well), but the cluster’s core is in Quebec – often described as “Quebec-based” in early announcements . It collaborates extensively with AI institutes (like Mila in Montreal) and industry across Canada.

Focus Areas

Scale AI’s niche is applying artificial intelligence to supply chains and industrial operations. Officially, it’s the “AI-Powered Supply Chains Supercluster,” bringing together the retail, manufacturing, transportation, infrastructure, ICT, and health sectors to build intelligent supply chain solutions . In simpler terms, it looks at how AI can optimize the flow of goods and services: everything from predicting consumer demand, to automating logistics, to improving procurement and inventory with AI. By linking businesses with AI tech, Scale AI aims to boost productivity and make Canada a “global export leader” by leveraging AI . The cluster’s focus has broadened slightly over time – while supply chain remains the anchor, many projects also involve AI adoption in general operations (e.g. AI for quality control in factories, AI for predictive maintenance, etc.). The overarching theme is AI commercialization: moving AI from research labs into real-world use in companies of all sizes .

Key Programs and Projects

Scale AI funds projects under several streams: Industry-Led Projects (developing and deploying AI solutions in supply chains across sectors), Acceleration (support programs for AI startups/SMEs, including matching them with customers and investors), Workforce Development (AI training and upskilling programs), and Ecosystem & Global Presence (showcasing Canadian AI and connecting internationally) . This multi-faceted approach recognizes that adopting AI isn’t just about technology – it’s also about having skilled people and connecting solution providers with industry needs.

A typical Scale AI project involves a consortium of a solution provider (often an AI startup or tech firm) plus one or more end-user companies that will implement the AI solution. For example, Scale AI invested in a project to optimize retail pricing using AI, led by convenience store giant Alimentation Couche-Tard (the parent of Circle K) with partners ThirdBridge (a data firm) and IVADO Labs (Montreal AI experts) . The project built algorithms to dynamically adjust product prices based on consumer behavior, aiming to improve sales and inventory management. It had a total budget of $5.7 M, with $2.3 M from Scale AI and the rest from industry . In another project, CN Rail and partners developed AI to predict railcar maintenance needs (preventing breakdowns). These illustrate how the cluster tackles concrete supply chain challenges – pricing, asset maintenance, demand forecasting, route optimization – by injecting AI solutions.

Scale AI doesn’t just fund corporate projects; it also heavily supports startups. The cluster’s Acceleration program has put “millions in funding on the table to help finance the growth of AI startups and SMEs”, and connects them with mentorship and potential customers . In fact, Scale AI often matches startups with their first commercial buyer, effectively securing a pilot deployment for the startup’s AI product . This is hugely valuable for AI entrepreneurs, since getting that first industry validation can be challenging – the cluster de-risks it by subsidizing the project and brokering the partnership. Over $500 million in combined investments have been catalyzed by Scale AI in various projects to date , demonstrating strong uptake.

The cluster also invests in talent development, recognizing AI is only as good as the people behind it. It has funded training programs that reached thousands of workers, from AI bootcamps to corporate training in data science, as well as an AI research chair program and youth STEM initiatives . Scale AI’s ecosystem work includes trade missions and showcasing Canadian AI globally; for instance, it led Canadian delegations to big tech events like VivaTech in France to attract investment and partnerships .

Private Sector Partners and Members

Scale AI’s network reads like a who’s-who of industry and tech in Canada. Major corporate partners include Air Canada (airline), CN (railway), Bombardier (transport/aerospace), Shopify (e-commerce), Desjardins (financial), Bell (telecom), and retailers like Walmart Canada and Couche-Tard . Many AI startups and scale-ups are involved, such as Coveo, MindBridge, Element AI (now part of ServiceNow), and Mila-affiliated startups. Leading universities (McGill, University of Montreal, Toronto, etc.) and research labs are also members. The cluster actively encourages SMEs from outside Quebec to join projects too, to ensure a pan-Canadian impact.

By mid-2023, Scale AI had announced over 85 industry projects and supported 45+ startups through acceleration, with an estimated 6,000+ jobs created or maintained. During the COVID-19 period, Scale AI pivoted to fund projects improving supply chain resiliency (like PPE distribution using AI). The federal government recognized Scale AI’s success and, in 2022, allocated $250 M of new funding (under the Pan-Canadian AI Strategy Phase 2) to be deployed through the supercluster network . As of 2025, $78 M of that was invested in 38 AI commercialization projects via the clusters , bolstering Scale AI’s capacity.

Recent Developments and Economic Growth Impact

Scale AI initially had about $230 M federal funding (later listed as $284 M) and it has attracted over $185 M in industry co-investment so far . The cluster is now in a growth phase, launching new calls in frontier areas like Generative AI (to help companies implement GenAI solutions). In April 2025, Scale AI announced a $30 M funding envelope for new AI projects to encourage companies (including non-tech firms) to integrate AI into their operations . This reflects the intense pressure and opportunity across industries to adopt AI – Scale AI is effectively acting as a catalyst and funder to accelerate this adoption in Canada .

On the startup side, Scale AI’s portfolio of accelerated companies has begun to bear fruit, with several raising significant venture funding or landing enterprise contracts. For example, Montreal’s Lyric (AI for logistics) and Toronto’s DarwinAI (AI for manufacturing, also part of the Aspire project earlier) each scaled up thanks to cluster support. The cluster’s emphasis on “AI for supply chain resilience” has proven prescient given recent global supply disruptions – many Canadian firms have used cluster-backed AI tools to improve forecasting and inventory (mitigating backlogs and shortages). Scale AI also launched partnerships beyond Canada: it has MOUs with France and the UK to collaborate on AI projects, giving Canadian startups a bridge to European markets.

In summary, Scale AI Supercluster is the go-to cluster for anything AI. It offers tremendous value to AI entrepreneurs (funding, business development, introductions to big clients) and to traditional companies (expertise and cost-sharing to implement AI solutions). Investors eyeing the AI space in Canada should pay attention to Scale AI’s project roster – it highlights some of the most promising use-cases and companies leading the charge in applied AI. Whether it’s optimizing a retailer’s supply chain or automating a factory line, Scale AI is helping Canadian businesses scale up with AI, keeping Canada at the forefront of the AI revolution.

Ocean Supercluster (Canada’s Ocean Cluster)

The Ocean Supercluster leverages Canada's vast coastlines and marine resources to drive innovation in ocean technologies and sustainable blue economy development.

Location and Scope Within the Innovation Superclusters Initiative

Canada’s Ocean Supercluster (OSC) is headquartered in Atlantic Canada, with main offices in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador (and a presence in Halifax, Nova Scotia) . Uniquely, it’s a pan-Atlantic initiative that also reaches Canada’s Pacific and Arctic waters – truly “coast-to-coast-to-coast” in membership . The Ocean Supercluster harnesses the fact that Canada has the world’s longest coastline and a huge ocean territory, touching three oceans.

Focus Areas

The Ocean Supercluster brings together industries that operate in and around the ocean: fisheries and aquaculture, offshore energy (oil & gas, wind), marine bioresources, defense, shipping, and ocean technology . The idea is to break down silos between traditional ocean sectors and new blue-tech players, and to accelerate development of globally relevant ocean solutions . Key technological focuses include digital ocean mapping and sensors, autonomous marine vehicles (drones, robotics for underwater use), marine renewable energy, automation of ships and offshore platforms, marine biotechnology, and marine engineering . Basically, any innovation that can improve how we understand, develop, or protect ocean resources is in scope. A major goal is to grow Canada’s “blue economy” significantly – the cluster often cites a target to grow the ocean economy to $220 billion by 2035, roughly a fivefold increase . This would mean Canada becomes a top global player in ocean industries, exporting ocean tech and expertise worldwide.

Key Programs and Projects

The Ocean Supercluster organizes its projects into several thematic streams: Scaled Ocean Energy (e.g. offshore wind, tidal, and other renewable marine energy tech to green the economy) , Sustainable Seafood (innovations in aquaculture and fisheries for more sustainable and secure food) , Future of Ocean Transportation (decarbonizing shipping, autonomous vessels, smarter ports) , Ocean Climate Solutions (technologies to monitor and mitigate climate change effects in oceans, carbon sinks, etc.) , AI Ocean (applying AI to ocean datasets and industries) , and Ecosystem Development (scaling ocean startups, workforce diversity, connecting regional hubs) . This comprehensive approach ensures the cluster addresses environmental and economic aspects together – for example, pushing for cleaner ocean industries and more inclusive growth.

One project example: the Ocean Supercluster invested in a consortium to develop eco-friendly marine biofuel as an alternative to diesel for vessels . This project, with ~$4 M from OSC (part of $12 M total), aims to reduce carbon emissions in marine shipping by creating cleaner fuel from renewable sources . Another project is building autonomous ocean sensors that can continuously monitor ocean health (like temperature, acidity, marine life signs) and report data in real-time . Such sensors, often deployed on buoys or underwater drones, can revolutionize how we track climate change in our oceans or detect pollution early. Many OSC projects indeed combine expertise; for instance, a recent project led by NL-based eDNAtec uses autonomous vessels and DNA-based sensors to monitor marine biodiversity (partners include industry and research from coast to coast) .

The Ocean Supercluster is also notable for its Two-Eyed Seeing Initiative – a framework that incorporates Indigenous knowledge alongside Western science in ocean projects . By engaging Indigenous communities and businesses, the cluster ensures traditional ocean users and stewards have a role in innovation. They’ve funded projects with Indigenous-owned companies in areas like sustainable fisheries and Arctic shipping.

Another key undertaking is the Ocean Startup Project, which the Supercluster launched in 2020 to spur new ocean tech companies. This program, in collaboration with regional incubators/accelerators, provides mentorship, competitions, and early funding to ocean-focused startups. By 2024, the Ocean Startup Project had supported over 155 ocean startups and provided $3.2 M in grants, and it announced an additional $8 M for its third phase . Initially focused on Atlantic Canada, it has expanded pan-Canada to anyone with a bright idea in ocean tech . This has led to new companies tackling everything from kelp farming to underwater robotics – exactly the kind of grassroots innovation the cluster wants to spark.

Private Sector Partners and Members

The Ocean Supercluster has a very diverse membership. Large industry members include energy companies (like ExxonMobil Canada, Ocean Winds, Marine renewables firms), fisheries and aquaculture companies (Clearwater Seafoods, Cooke Aquaculture), technology firms (Kraken Robotics, Open Ocean Robotics), and major shipbuilders or defense contractors (Irving Shipbuilding, Lockheed Martin Canada). Research players like Memorial University of Newfoundland, Dalhousie University, and the National Research Council’s ocean programs are heavily involved. With nearly 600 member organizations , the cluster brings together companies that normally wouldn’t collaborate. For example, a project on “smart protective coatings for ships” might involve a paint manufacturer, a nanotech startup, a shipyard, and a university oceanography department.

Internationally, OSC has forged links (e.g., with Norway’s ocean cluster and US bluetech hubs) to keep Canadian companies connected to global opportunities. It also regularly sends delegations to events like Hannover Messe and others to showcase Canadian ocean innovations.

Recent Developments and Economic Growth Impact

The Ocean Supercluster had an initial funding pot of $153 M federal, later topped up to about $279 M . By late 2023, it had co-invested in over 60 projects with a total value exceeding $360 M. The cluster’s momentum is strong: it announced nine new AI-powered ocean projects in 2023-24 worth $20 M (with OSC investing $10 M) , covering things like AI for marine inspections and fisheries management . OSC also set an “Ambition 2035” strategy meeting in 2024 with 200+ ocean industry leaders, crystallizing the goal to 5× the ocean economy and laying out needs in policy, talent, and data to get there .

One notable outcome is the cluster’s contribution to green shipping. A project called SeaForward (launched 2022) developed voyage optimization software that has been adopted by shipping firms to cut fuel use and emissions by ~15%. In offshore energy, OSC projects have piloted the use of remote-operated vehicles (ROVs) for subsea inspections, reducing the need for manned vessels. Importantly, the cluster has emphasized inclusion: through Two-Eyed Seeing and targeted calls, Indigenous participation in OSC projects has increased (with several Indigenous-led ocean businesses securing cluster funding by 2025).

For entrepreneurs, the Ocean Supercluster opens doors in what can be a tough industry to crack (oceans often require large capital and connections). The cluster’s support and network can help a small sensor startup get a pilot with, say, the Coast Guard or a large aquaculture firm – scenarios that would be hard to achieve alone. And for investors, OSC is nurturing a new generation of “blue tech” startups in areas like ocean data analytics, renewable energy, and sustainable aquaculture. Given the rising global focus on oceans (for food security and climate solutions), these companies could be tomorrow’s leaders in a multi-billion dollar blue economy.

Why These Clusters Matter to Entrepreneurs and Investors

Canada’s innovation clusters are not just abstract policy – they offer real, tangible benefits for businesses and investors in the tech and innovation space. Here’s why you should care about them.

Access to Funding and Support

Each supercluster comes with co-funding opportunities for R&D and commercialization projects. If you’re an entrepreneur or SME with a big innovative idea but limited resources, partnering through a cluster can unlock significant financial support. 

The clusters collectively have over $1 billion in federal funds to match industry investments. This means you can get a portion of your project costs covered (often 35–50%) by the cluster, de-risking ambitious R&D. Importantly, clusters don’t take equity – the funding is typically non-dilutive for startups. Beyond money, clusters also provide project management help, IP strategy support, and connections to research facilities. 

Essentially, they act like an innovation accelerator on a massive scale. As one report noted, the federally funded superclusters enable Canadian organizations “to tackle big problems while also gaining access to otherwise inaccessible resources and expertise” . Entrepreneurs can undertake projects (AI adoption, prototype development, etc.) that would be too costly or complex alone.

Partnerships and Network Building

By design, superclusters are “a creator of networks”, connecting small and large companies, academia, and others . For a startup, this could mean the difference between toiling in isolation versus collaborating with a Fortune 500 partner. Clusters often match startups with first customers or industry partners – for example, Scale AI actively pairs startups with corporates to pilot AI solutions. 

Being part of a cluster project lends credibility and opens doors: you suddenly have a seat at the table with major industry players. Many SMEs have reported that cluster participation helped them access new markets and customers that were previously out-of-reach. 

The networks also extend globally: clusters organize trade delegations and international partnerships (e.g. missions to trade shows like Hannover Messe and VivaTech), giving Canadian companies global exposure. For investors, these networks are goldmines for deal flow – clusters bring together the most promising companies in a sector, essentially curating an ecosystem of vetted innovators. Moreover, cluster projects encourage a collaborative mindset; companies share knowledge, IP, and talent in ways that can spawn spin-off ideas and new ventures.

Innovation Ecosystem & Commercialization Support

The clusters create rich innovation ecosystems in their focus areas. Entrepreneurs benefit from being in an environment where talent, ideas, and infrastructure are concentrated. For example, NGen’s network of testbeds and demo facilities can help a hardware startup validate its technology faster. Clusters also focus on IP and commercialization support – they’ve instituted IP-sharing frameworks that protect companies while encouraging collaboration, and they offer guidance on IP strategy (each cluster even has an IP manager). 

According to the federal program stats, nearly 75% of projects generated new IP that has been or is being commercialized , and the vast majority of that IP is owned by Canadian companies . This is critical: it means if you innovate via a cluster, you are likely to retain valuable IP and be able to exploit it (with fair sharing among partners). 

Clusters also push for skills development – as an entrepreneur you can access talent programs, and as an individual you can benefit from training workshops, bootcamps, and mentorship initiatives they fund . For investors, stronger ecosystems and skilled talent pools reduce risk in portfolio companies. Plus, cluster-backed firms have a stamp of approval that they’re working on high-impact, validated projects (in fact, many venture capitalists in Canada keep an eye on cluster project announcements as a source of promising leads).

Funding Leverage and De-Risking

From an investor perspective, cluster funding leverages and de-risks your investment. If a startup has cluster backing, that means every dollar you invest might be matched or multiplied by government/industry consortia funding for their R&D. The clusters have achieved about a 1:1.6 leverage ratio (industry dollars per government dollar) – a strong endorsement that multiple parties see value in these projects. 

Moreover, cluster projects often require achieving certain milestones and involve expert oversight, which adds extra diligence and reduces technical risk. Some investors also participate directly in clusters (as members or advisors), gaining insight into technology roadmaps and even co-investment opportunities. Clusters can thus serve as due-diligence partners: if a company’s solution has been adopted in a cluster project with say, a large enterprise, it’s a validation of the tech and market need.

Market Insight and Strategic Alignment

The five clusters highlight strategic sectors where Canada is investing heavily. For entrepreneurs, aligning with a cluster can plug you into national strategies (AI, advanced manufacturing, etc.) and even policy support. For example, being part of Protein Industries Canada might position your agri-food startup for future government programs or global initiatives around food security. 

The clusters often publish market reports and roadmaps; by engaging, you stay ahead of industry trends and can shape standards. Investors benefit similarly – understanding cluster focus areas helps identify macro opportunities. If the government and industry are pouring millions into oceans or plant proteins, it signals those sectors have long-term growth potential (and potentially favorable policy environments).

Community and Visibility

There’s also an intangible but important benefit: joining a supercluster makes you part of a community of innovators. Entrepreneurs can share experiences with peers tackling similar challenges, often leading to partnerships or mentorship. The clusters host events, hackathons, and “demo days” where you can showcase your tech to a broad audience. This visibility can attract customers, talent, and investors organically. Companies in cluster projects often get media exposure through cluster press releases (the clusters love to highlight success stories). From a branding perspective, being selected by a supercluster adds credibility – it tells stakeholders that your company is among the top innovators in the country. Many startups proudly advertise their cluster-backed projects when fundraising or marketing.

In short, Canada’s innovation clusters are powerful launch pads. They offer money, mentorship, markets, and more – a combination that can significantly accelerate a company’s growth. They also create a virtuous cycle: as more entrepreneurs and investors engage, the clusters get stronger, which in turn produces more successful companies (some of which become investors or partners for the next generation). No matter if you’re a two-person startup or a VC firm or a multinational, there’s a role for you in these clusters – and a chance to shape the next wave of innovation in Canada.

Choosing the Right Supercluster for You

With five clusters focusing on different domains, how do you determine which one is the best fit for your venture or investment focus? It largely comes down to your sector, your technology/product focus, your growth stage/goals, and sometimes your geographic ties. Here’s a simple guide.

Digital Technology (DIGITAL Supercluster – based in BC)

Choose this cluster if you’re working on software, digital platforms, AR/VR, big data, or health-tech solutions. For example, a startup developing a healthcare AI app or a VR training platform would fit well in Digital. It’s ideal for companies that want to collaborate in Western Canada’s tech scene (Vancouver’s ecosystem) but it’s open to all Canadians in the digital space. If your goal is to scale a digital product and you need partnerships with tech giants, healthcare providers, or resource sector players for pilot projects, DIGITAL can connect you. Essentially, if it’s high-tech and doesn’t squarely fall under the other themes, the Digital Supercluster is a good bet.

Protein Industries Canada (Prairies-based)

This cluster is the best fit if you’re in agriculture, food innovation, or biotech related to plant-based proteins. Entrepreneurs developing novel food ingredients (e.g. pea protein, algae protein), improved crop varieties, ag-tech (like farm robotics, genomics, ag AI), or sustainable food processing technology should look here. If you aim to enter global food markets or need support with scaling production in agrifood, PIC offers that sector-specific network and funding. Geographically, it’s centered in the Prairies, so companies in Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Alberta with agri-food focus will find a strong local network. That said, if you’re elsewhere but in agri-food (say an Ontario plant-based food startup), PIC is still your cluster – it’s about sector alignment. Use PIC to partner with growers, processors, and food companies to commercialize new food products or farming solutions.

Advanced Manufacturing – NGen (Ontario-based)

If your venture involves manufacturing or hardware technology – be it advanced materials, robotics, 3D printing, automation software for factories, clean manufacturing processes, or even building physical products like medical devices – then NGen is likely your home. It’s particularly suited for scale-ups that have a prototype and need to scale production or integrate into supply chains. For example, a company building industrial robots or an electric vehicle component maker could leverage NGen to find manufacturing partners and funding for pilot lines. Also, traditional manufacturers looking to digitize or adopt new tech can join NGen to find tech providers and funding. In terms of goals: if you want to improve productivity, reduce costs, or commercialize a manufacturing innovation, NGen’s programs target those. While centered in Ontario, NGen has projects country-wide – so a BC cleantech hardware startup or a Nova Scotia boat manufacturer innovating with composites can equally tap in. Your sector (manufacturing/industrial) is the key driver here.

Scale AI (Montreal-based)

Pick Scale AI if you are an AI-focused company or you want to implement AI in your operations. This cluster is ideal for AI startups (especially those solving supply chain, logistics, or enterprise AI problems) looking for funding and first customers. It’s also great for any business that has data and processes that could be optimized by AI – for instance, a retailer wanting to use AI for inventory, or a trucking company seeking routing AI. If your growth goal is to harness AI to become more efficient or to scale an AI solution across industry, Scale AI provides the network of experts and industry adopters. Sector-wise, it’s broad (retail, transportation, manufacturing, etc.), united by the AI thread. Geographically, Montreal/Toronto are hotbeds, but Scale AI funds projects across Canada (a Vancouver AI startup can absolutely be involved). It also has acceleration programs for early-stage startups and training programs – so whether you’re pre-revenue or a scaling AI venture, there’s support. If you’re an investor, look at Scale AI for exposure to top AI companies and to see where industries are investing in AI adoption (e.g. lots of activity in supply chain optimization, fintech AI, etc.).

Ocean Supercluster (Atlantic-based)

If your business is tied to marine or maritime industries, this is the obvious choice. Ocean tech startups – making underwater vehicles, ocean sensors, aquaculture technology, marine renewable energy devices, etc. – will find funding and industry partners here. Likewise, companies in fisheries, offshore resources, or shipping that need innovation (like new equipment, software or processes) should engage with OSC. Your growth goal might be to pilot your technology in harsh ocean conditions or with large industry players (e.g., testing a new fishing drone with a big seafood company) – the cluster can facilitate that. The Ocean Supercluster is also the right fit for those in coastal regions wanting to boost traditional ocean sectors with tech (for example, a Newfoundland company using AI for iceberg tracking, or a BC firm working on tidal power). Even if you’re inland but have relevant tech (say an AI company focusing on climate modeling which could apply to ocean data), consider OSC. The cluster can help navigate regulatory waters (literally) and provides access to government and academia expertise in oceans. If you care about blue economy and have innovation for it, this is your home base.

Consider joining multiple clusters if applicable

 Some companies straddle domains – e.g., an ag-tech startup using AI might engage with both Protein Industries and Scale AI. While you’d typically lead a project in one cluster, cross-cluster collaborations happen (as seen with the Aspire cricket farm project bridging NGen and PIC ). Also, think about where your strongest network is. If you’re a UBC spin-off in Vancouver with a digital healthcare solution, Digital Technology cluster not only aligns sector-wise but gives you local peer support. But if that solution is AI-heavy and supply chain focused, Scale AI might fund it more readily – you can always tap into local incubators for community while getting funding from the cluster that matches your tech focus.

Geography vs. Sector

Remember, all clusters are open to members Canada-wide . The regional tags reflect where the cluster’s leadership and many members are, but don’t be deterred if you’re not in that province. Focus on where your industry fit is strongest. Often, joining a cluster can even help you expand into a new region (e.g., an Ontario manufacturing startup might find new clients in Alberta via NGen’s connections).

In conclusion, evaluate what industry problem you solve and what resources you need. If it’s digital transformation – go Digital. If it’s food or agri-tech – Protein. If it’s building physical products at scale – NGen. If it’s leveraging AI – Scale AI. If it’s anything ocean or marine – Ocean Supercluster. By aligning with the right cluster, you position yourself in the center of your industry’s innovation ecosystem, which can accelerate your journey from idea to impact.