Key Sectors
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Featured Sectors
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Canada’s Ocean Innovation Capital
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Where Global Tech Leaders Start
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Canada’s Energy City
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Aerospace and Defence
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Arts and Culture
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Film and Television
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Fishery and Aquaculture
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Music Industry
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Tourism
Canada’s Ocean Innovation Capital
Ocean Innovation
A modern, innovation-driven seafood industry built on centuries of marine expertise.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region is one of the most advanced ocean innovation hubs in the world. Companies operating here benefit from immediate access to cold ocean and harsh environment conditions, world-class research partners, and a highly skilled workforce shaped by generations of maritime expertise.
The region’s oceans ecosystem is powered by Memorial University, the Marine Institute, the National Research Council, and private sector leaders in marine robotics, subsea imaging, fisheries science, and environmental monitoring.
This depth of capability creates a unique platform where ocean technologies can be researched, prototyped, tested, and commercialized in real conditions.
Key Strengths
Direct access to cold ocean and harsh environment testing
Canada’s largest concentration of ocean scientists and researchers
Marine Institute’s world-leading simulation, training, and testing facilities
A mature blue economy with global export performance
Strong ocean technology presence across robotics, sensing, and environmental data
Canada’s Ocean Supercluster and a highly collaborative innovation ecosystem
Skilled talent in ocean sciences, engineering, fisheries, and subsea operations
The Ocean Advantage
The capital region gives ocean companies a complete innovation environment, from research and testing to commercialization, supported by real Atlantic conditions and deep marine expertise.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region leads the world in ocean technology, remote operations, and harsh-environment solutions.
Where Global Tech Leaders Start
Tech Sector
A fast-growing tech ecosystem built on research strength, talent, and cross-industry innovation.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region has emerged as one of Atlantic Canada’s most dynamic technology environments, producing companies with global reach in software development, simulation, digital oceans, climate technology, fintech, and applied AI.
At the core of this growth is a strong talent pipeline from Memorial University and a collaborative start-up ecosystem anchored by Genesis. Technology firms benefit from proximity to major industries such as oceans, energy, aerospace and defence, creating opportunities to develop specialized tools and solutions for high-value markets worldwide.
Key Strengths
Rapidly expanding tech sector with global potential
Strong supply of graduates in computer science and engineering
Genesis, Newfoundland and Labrador’s hub for early-stage innovation, helps founders turn bold ideas into thriving companies.
Digital ocean, climate tech, and simulation leadership
High retention and strong quality of life for employees
Lower operating costs relative to larger Canadian tech hubs
Cross-sector collaboration driving acceleration and scale
The Technology Advantage
The capital region offers tech companies the talent, research strength, and sector connections they need to build, scale, and export digital innovation to global markets.
Home to billion-dollar tech success stories and cutting-edge R&D, this region is a rising force in fintech, deep tech, and digital solutions. With a skilled workforce and thriving innovation ecosystem, the technology deployed here, scales globally.
Canada’s Energy City
Energy Sector
A centre for offshore expertise, clean technology, and emerging renewable energy development.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region is built on a foundation of offshore engineering and energy innovation. With more than 30 years of operational experience in harsh environments, the region has the expertise, supply chain, and research depth required to support complex energy projects from concept to deployment.
The region is now expanding into clean technology, electrification, offshore renewables, and hydrogen development. Companies benefit from strong engineering talent, real Atlantic test environments, and advanced research and development capacity through Memorial University, the National Research Council, and the Marine Institute.
Key Strengths
Decades of offshore engineering and operational experience
Growing clean-tech and renewable energy sector
Memorial University of Newfoundland and NRC expertise in energy systems and offshore modelling
Strong supply chain for fabrication, inspection, digitalization, and environmental monitoring
Real-world testing for offshore renewable and efficiency technologies
Skilled workforce in engineering, project management, and offshore operations
Emerging hydrogen and wind development opportunities
The Energy Advantage
The capital region provides energy companies with a mature offshore base, expanding clean-tech capability, and world-class testing and research environments that support the future of global energy.
From offshore oil leadership to clean energy innovation, Newfoundland & Labrador’s Capital Region is shaping global energy security and sustainability.
Map image provided by Memorial University Department of Geography
Aerospace and Defence
A strategically located hub for maritime defence, surveillance, mission systems engineering, and simulation.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region plays a vital role in Canada’s maritime defence and North Atlantic security. Its proximity to transatlantic airspace, Arctic gateway routes, and offshore resource areas has supported defence operations for generations.
Building on this maritime defence heritage, the region has developed modern aerospace and mission systems capabilities led by PAL Aerospace and strengthened by advanced simulation and training facilities at the Marine Institute. Companies here support global surveillance missions, aircraft modification programs, simulation-based training, and ocean-focused defence technologies.
Key Strengths
Strategic North Atlantic location supporting sovereignty and surveillance
Longstanding maritime defence and marine safety operations
The home of two NATO DIANA test Centres; National Research Council Canada (NRC) - Ocean, Coastal and River Engineering Research Centre - St. John's and The Launch (Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University) - Holyrood
PAL Aerospace’s global leadership in mission systems and aviation support
World-class simulation and harsh environment training at the Marine Institute
Engineering strengths in aircraft modification and systems integration
Skilled workforce with defence, aviation, marine, and engineering experience
Strong innovation ecosystem aligned with oceans and technology sectors
The Aerospace and Defence Advantage
The capital region offers aerospace and defence companies a unique combination of strategic geography, maritime defence capability, simulation expertise, and engineering strength that supports mission-critical innovation on a global scale.
Arts and Culture
A creative ecosystem shaped by history, talent, and a globally recognized cultural identity.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region is home to one of Canada’s most vibrant cultural communities — a place where artists, performers, makers, and storytellers shape a distinctive creative economy. The region’s arts and culture sector is fueled by world-class festivals, an active creator community, nationally recognized institutions, and a cultural heritage that inspires creativity across mediums.
From Indigenous craft traditions to contemporary galleries, digital creators, theatrical performances, and literary excellence, the capital region offers a powerful cultural foundation that enhances quality of life, attracts talent, and supports a thriving creative economy.
Key Strengths
A nationally recognized arts community with deep cultural roots
Strong institutions spanning visual arts, theatre, literature, and craft
Annual festivals that attract local, national, and international audiences
Growing creative entrepreneurship across design, craft, digital arts, and performance
High quality of life and a supportive community for emerging and established artists
Distinct cultural identity that strengthens storytelling and brand development
Collaborative networks connecting artists, organizations, and industry partners
The Arts and Culture Advantage
The capital region offers creators and cultural organizations a connected, supportive environment that blends rich heritage with modern creative expression — making it a powerful place to produce, perform, and innovate.
Film and Television
A stunning natural backdrop and a growing production hub for screen-based storytelling.
Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region has become a sought-after location for film, television, documentary, and digital media productions. With dramatic landscapes, talented cast and crew, and competitive production incentives, the region supports both local creators and international productions.
The sector is strengthened by strong training programs, post‑production capacity, and a creative community that brings unique regional storytelling to global audiences.
Key Strengths
Competitive provincial film incentives and production supports
Growing base of skilled crew, production professionals, and technical talent
Access to diverse filming locations — urban, coastal, cultural, and natural
Strong institutions supporting film training and screen-based skills
Expanding digital media and content creation ecosystem
Successful track record of locally produced films and series with international reach
Collaborative networks connecting producers, writers, and creative industries
The Film and Television Advantage
The capital region provides film and television creators with a unique combination of stunning locations, skilled talent, supportive incentives, and a growing production infrastructure — making it a compelling choice for both local and international projects.
Fishery and Aquaculture
A modern, innovation-driven seafood industry built on centuries of marine expertise.
As the historic heart of Canada’s East Coast fishery, Newfoundland and Labrador’s capital region remains a global leader in sustainable seafood, fisheries science, and aquaculture innovation. The sector is supported by advanced research institutions, experienced processors, and a highly skilled workforce with deep ties to the ocean.
Today, the region is advancing next‑generation aquaculture, sustainable harvesting, marine biotechnology, and value-added seafood production — strengthening its global competitiveness.
Key Strengths
Centuries of fisheries heritage and marine expertise
World-leading fisheries and aquaculture research at Memorial University and the Marine Institute
Strong seafood processing and value‑added production capabilities
A growing aquaculture sector focused on sustainability and innovation
Access to cold, pristine North Atlantic waters
Skilled workforce in harvesting, processing, marine engineering, and operations
Technology development in fish health, environmental monitoring, and sustainable practices
The Fisheries and Aquaculture Advantage
The capital region provides seafood companies with unmatched marine expertise, cutting-edge research capacity, and access to North Atlantic conditions — supporting sustainable, high‑quality seafood production for global markets.
In 2023, Newfoundland and Labrador’s commercial fish landings had a landed value ($704 million).
Seafood products are exported to over 40 countries with the primary markets being US (70%), China, UK, and Denmark.
Employs 16,100 people from over 400 communities in fish harvesting, processing, and aquaculture operations.
During 2023, there were 90 active fish processing plants in the province.
Sustainable: 75% of fish and seafood in Newfoundland and Labrador is certified to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) standard (by value).
Music Industry
A globally recognized music scene built on tradition, innovation, and world-class talent.
The capital region is known across Canada and beyond for producing exceptional musicians, composers, and performers. Its music sector blends traditional Newfoundland and Labrador sounds with contemporary genres, nurturing a dynamic ecosystem of professional artists, recording studios, festivals, and industry support organizations.
With Memorial University’s renowned School of Music, a high density of venues, and a supportive community for emerging talent, the region provides musicians with the resources to create, collaborate, and reach international audiences.
Key Strengths
One of Canada’s most celebrated traditional and contemporary music communities
Memorial University’s School of Music producing world-class performers and composers
A strong live music scene supported by festivals, venues, and cultural events
Skilled workforce in composition, audio engineering, production, and performance
High-quality studios and post-production facilities
Strong export potential for artists in folk, classical, indie, and contemporary genres
Sector networks supporting artist development and international touring
The Music Advantage
The capital region gives music creators a rare combination of talent, heritage, training, and opportunity — making it an ideal place to develop, perform, and export world-class music.
Tourism
A destination defined by natural beauty, cultural richness, and unforgettable experiences.
The capital region is one of Atlantic Canada’s most distinctive tourism destinations — known for breathtaking landscapes, vibrant arts and culture, culinary excellence, and memorable hospitality. Visitors are drawn to the region’s dramatic coastline, colourful neighbourhoods, historic sites, Indigenous culture, and world-class festivals.
Tourism operators benefit from a strong brand identity, year-round visitation opportunities, and a growing global interest in authentic, place-based travel experiences.
Key Strengths
Iconic natural attractions and coastal landscapes
A strong cultural tourism offering across music, arts, food, and heritage
Growing year-round tourism market supported by festivals and events
High-quality accommodations, restaurants, and experience-based operators
Strong air access to major Canadian and international hubs
A globally recognized brand built on authenticity and storytelling
Significant opportunities in adventure tourism, culinary tourism, and experiential travel
The Tourism Advantage
The capital region offers tourism operators a powerful and authentic destination brand supported by exceptional natural beauty, cultural richness, and experiences that resonate with visitors from around the world.
In 2023, business events brought 20,900 delegates to the province and gross hotel room sales for the 15 larger properties were $95 million.
Air visitation reached an estimated 304,300 in the province.
Auto visitation reached 113,600 in the province.
Cruise visitation was strong, with the province welcoming 69,100 unique visitors.
Destination Canada data indicates that St. John’s is ahead of pace in 2024 over other Canadian destinations in attracting Canadian and international conferences.
