Dive Deep into the Future: Newfoundland’s Ocean Technology Sector Gets a $467K Boost

In an ambitious move to strengthen its ocean technology sector, the Newfoundland and Labrador government has announced a significant $467,500 investment in SubC Imaging, a Clarenville-based pioneer in underwater imaging solutions. The funding is set to revolutionize how we inspect our underwater world, combining advanced technology with efficient, cost-effective operations.

Multi-Camera Innovation Sets Sail

SubC Imaging, a company renowned for its comprehensive imaging solutions globally, is on the brink of a breakthrough with its latest project. This innovative venture involves developing a multi-channel inspection system equipped with up to six cameras. These cameras are designed for ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicles) integration, aiming to enhance situational awareness dramatically. The heart of this innovation lies in the software capable of synthesizing data from multiple sources into a unified system. This integration will not only streamline operations but also catapult the capabilities of end-to-end inspections and surveys.

Lighting Up the Deep: Cameras, Lights, Lasers, and More

The ocean’s depths are a realm of perpetual darkness, and SubC’s new system promises to cast light in these shadowy depths. The plan includes an assembly of cameras, lights, lasers, and a cloud-based infrastructure—all orchestrated by bespoke software. This holistic approach ensures that every inspection and survey is not just thorough but also seamlessly connected, from the ocean floor to the cloud.

A Game-Changer for the Offshore Energy Sector

Regular inspections of subsea equipment are a critical necessity in the offshore energy industry, often involving an array of specialized personnel and varied inspection methods. SubC’s technology revolutionizes this process, offering a more cost-effective and efficient method to monitor and inspect underwater assets. This technology not only promises to reduce operational costs but also enhances the safety and reliability of these critical inspections.

From Humble Beginnings to High-Tech

Starting in a home office in 2010, SubC Imaging has shown remarkable growth, now boasting over 20 dedicated employees. The recent investment by the Provincial Government, drawn from the Innovation and Business Development Fund, matches SubC’s own investment, bringing the total project cost to $935,000. This funding initiative is part of a broader strategy to bolster Newfoundland and Labrador’s capabilities across various energy sectors, highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth.

Government and Industry Leaders Weigh In

The Honourable Andrew Parsons, KC, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, noting, “SubC has shown time and again it can compete in the global marketplace while creating valuable tech-based jobs in rural Newfoundland and Labrador. Our government is pleased to support ocean technology companies such as SubC by providing them with the tools needed to compete in an increasingly globalized market.”

Echoing this sentiment, Chad Collett, CEO of SubC Imaging, emphasized the strategic nature of this investment. “Investing in the development of new inspection and survey systems will enable us to enter the market faster and achieve a greater impact than we could otherwise,” said Collett. He added that the robust support for ocean tech makes Newfoundland and Labrador an ideal hub for advancing ocean technology.

A Bright Future Below the Waves

This strategic investment not only highlights the potential of SubC Imaging’s innovative technologies but also underscores the importance of nurturing industries that leverage the unique geographic and economic strengths of Newfoundland and Labrador. As SubC Imaging prepares to deploy its cutting-edge systems, the future looks promising for the ocean technology sector, promising significant advances in how we explore and protect our underwater frontiers.

Sources:
Innovation and Business Development Fund
SubC Imaging