Welcome to this week’s Midweek Memo. In this issue, find out how changes at BC Ferries could make for a smoother sailing experience, how $7.6 million in federal funding will help address the root causes of impacts to coastal and marine environments, and which Island-based oceantech company is getting recognition for its leadership.

Now on to today’s briefing. It’s 792 words: a three-minute read.

-Emily, [email protected]

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Feds invest $6.4 million in local business growth

Earlier this month, the Government of Canada announced $6.4 million in PacifiCan funding for seven organizations to drive business growth and support economic development initiatives in B.C. The funding includes $5.1 million for three organizations through PacifiCan’s Business Acceleration Pilot (BizAP) that will help small- and medium-sized businesses scale up, expand into new markets, and strengthen B.C.’s economy.

Among the BizAP funding recipients is Victoria-based Alacrity Canada, a non-profit that provides advisory and training services for emerging businesses. Alacity is set to receive $2,481,097 to expand its Advanced Pathways for Export (APEX) programming for up-and-coming companies ready for rapid growth.

The APEX program is designed to help companies prepare for diversified trade opportunities, and provides personalized mentorship from industry experts as well as connections with global investors. It has supported 24,000 B.C. entrepreneurs to date.

“Scaling a business beyond domestic markets requires not only capital — it’s about unlocking the right networks, export opportunities, and strategic expertise,” said Golriz Fattahi, CEO of Alacrity Canada.

“Through the APEX program, we are leveraging our global footprint and equipping B.C.'s high-growth SMEs with the tailored support they need to succeed in international markets. This will drive competitive economic growth, industrial transformation, and accelerate the transition to a clean economy.”

📰 More Victoria innovation news

⛴️ I am sailing: BC Ferries CEO Nicolas Jimenez joined the Chamber Chats podcast to discuss the organization’s plans to improve its fleet and services.

🌊 Only the ocean knows: The Government of Canada announced over $7.6 million in funding for four projects in B.C. under the Aquatic Ecosystems Restoration Fund. Island-based projects are led by the Raincoast Conservation Foundation, the Pacheedaht First Nation, and the Guardians of Our Salish Estuaries.

🏆 Who run the world: Open Ocean Robotics was recognized as one of Canada’s top 10 woman-led AI startups at the Women in Tech AI program.

🕴️ Tech jobs of the week

Find your next career:

• Data engineer at MarineLabs

• Animator at Electronic Arts

• Business intelligence data engineer at Blastworks

Hiring in Victoria? Reply to this email and let us know!

📅 Upcoming events

ABCMI & COAST Innovation Forum | April 15-16

The Association of British Columbia Marine Industries (ABCMI) in partnership with COAST (Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies), is hosting the annual Innovation Forum in Vancouver. This is a great event to understand the latest innovations, technology, science, and research that is shaping the future of B.C.’s marine industry.

Victoria Climate Connections | April 24

Victoria Climate Connections will unite professionals working on climate change science, impacts, mitigation, and adaptation in B.C. for an informal evening of networking. Climate Connections aims to build community amongst Victoria’s climate-solution seekers by bridging the gap across sectors, fostering dialogue about current climate change issues and initiatives, and creating synergies for future collaborative climate change projects. The University of Victoria will welcome climate professionals from municipal and provincial government, industry, non-profits, and climate think tanks.

The 2025 VIATEC Awards | May 1

This event brings the tech community together and take a moment to spotlight and celebrate some of the year’s most notable companies and individuals within Victoria’s $5.9 billion tech sector. For over 23 years, the event has been produced by VIATEC, Victoria’s tech industry association.

Have an upcoming event? Reply to let us know.

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