With the global demand for sustainable protein rising, aquaculture is expected to play a key role in meeting that demand, presenting a significant opportunity for Canada. Investment in innovations like the Marine Donut® will not only help position Canada to lead in sustainable aquaculture but will also support domestic food security. This technology will contribute to sustainable growth opportunities for salmon farming in British Columbia and help position the $1.2 billion sector for long-term success.

The project is led by Campbell River, BC-based Bluegreen with support from local Wei Wai Kum First Nation in Campbell River, BC. With a total project value of $51 million, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is investing $14.5 million, with the balance of funding coming from project partners.

In collaboration with North Island College, Bluegreen will help build local capacity by recruiting students from local First Nations to join the training program. The program will train up to 140 students in thermoplastic manufacturing in small cohorts of 10 students each. Bluegreen will also recruit and train five–10 Marine Donut operators.

Bluegreen’s support from Wei Wai Kum First Nation and other Indigenous collaborators reflects a shared commitment to sustainable economic development, stewardship of marine resources, food security, and long-term prosperity for coastal communities.

“As global demand for sustainable seafood continues to grow, Canada has a significant opportunity to become a global leader in sustainable aquaculture. Innovations like Bluegreen’s Marine Donut® can help position Canada at the forefront of this sector while strengthening food security, advancing Indigenous participation and leadership, and supporting resilient coastal economies,” said Kendra MacDonald, Chief Executive Officer, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster.

“We are proud and excited to take the next step in adapting Marine Donut® for Canadian conditions. The support from Canada’s Ocean Supercluster is an important vote of confidence in the technology and in its potential to contribute to the growth of the aquaculture sector. We are also very much looking forward to working closely with First Nations and local partners to build knowledge, create value, and develop solutions that are well suited to the needs of coastal communities in British Columbia,” said Nils-Johan Tufte, Group CEO of Bluegreen and Inventor of Marine Donut®.