This study is a two-volume report that was conducted by ACZISC (The Atlantic Coastal Zone Information Steering Committee) and Canmac Economics with financial support from ACOA through the Atlantic Policy Research Initiative.

The Atlantic Canadian ocean technology sector, generally defined as any firm engaged in the delivery or creation of technology for marine applications, consists of 137 identified firms. The range of products offered by the ocean technology sector can generally be summarized as acoustic systems and equipment, defence systems and equipment, imaging systems and equipment, instrumentation and information systems, marine communications, navigation, platforms and vehicles as well as a wide variety of services.

The economic importance of the ocean technology sector far exceeds its size. The sector makes a significant contribution to the Atlantic economy as one of the region's largest advanced technology industries with high levels of R&D and innovation, a highly skilled labour force, an export focus and its capacity to generate wealth.

When we factor in the estimated indirect and induced (spinoff) economic activity we see the sector is responsible for close to 5,298 person years of employment, $201.8 million of household (labour) income and $280.9 million of GDP on an annual basis.

Surveyed firms felt their sales would grow by an average of 16.1% per annum over the next five (5) years.

This study provides the ocean technology industry in Atlantic Canada, in particular the Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs)1, with strategic information on potential public sector demand for ocean technologies in federal departments of Canada. It also offers guidance to companies in building business opportunities based on the anticipated ocean technology requirements of federal departments. It identifies the relevant federal departments, key contacts and sources of information, and potential business and collaborative opportunities.