Canada's National Alliance for the Blue Economy
Ocean Alliance Canada operates as a system-level institution that shapes skills, innovation readiness, and policy insight across the sustainable blue economy.
We operate at the intersection of talent, technology and sustainability to strengthen Canada’s position within the global ocean economy through skills and workforce systems, innovation readiness and applied research. Our network brings together government, industry, Indigenous leadership, academia and the non profit sector to build shared solutions that help the ocean economy grow in a sustainable and inclusive way.
Our work is grounded in national priorities and informed by global collaboration and shared learning. OAC’s research and insight inform policy-relevant decision-making by government, technical authorities, and ecosystem leaders, without engaging in advocacy or regulation.
Our Approach
Everything we do is guided by three pillars that strengthen the systems behind a sustainable blue economy.
These pillars help partners adopt new technologies, grow skills and advance sustainable development together.
PEOPLE
Building a globally competitive skills and workforce systems through training, credentialing, pathways and equitable participation.
PROGRESS
Turning research, data and collaboration into measurable actions that support innovation readiness and sector growth.
PARTNERSHIPS
Advancing regions, sectors and communities to shape Canada’s priorities within global ocean systems and embed insight across the blue economy.
The Ocean Alliance Canada Team
OAC is powered by a Canada-anchored network of collaborators operating across regions, sectors and global partnerships.
Dr. Yogendra Chaudhry
SBEP Team
Governance and Structure
Ocean Alliance Canada is governed by a National Steering Committee composed of 15–17 leaders from across Canada’s ocean sectors and observers. This central decision-making and advisory body oversees strategic direction, coordinates working group efforts, and ensures sectoral alignment.
The Committee is supported by ECO Canada and includes representation from federal and provincial governments, Indigenous organizations, academia, and international observers.
Chair
ECO Canada VP, Professional Services
Vice-Chair
Rotating reps from Canadian institutions
Sector Representatives
5–7 cross-sector Blue Economy representatives
Government Liaison
Federal and provincial government reps
Academic Representative
2–3 leading ocean-focused institutions
Technology & Innovation Expert
Experts in AI, Ocean Tech, and Clean Tech
Labour & Workforce Lead
National skills councils, unions, and workforce orgs
Indigenous Organization Representative
Key Indigenous-led Blue Economy organizations
Observer
Caribbean institutions and UN agencies
Working Groups
Have an idea for a new Working Group? We welcome proposals focused on collaboration, innovation, and advancement in Canada’s blue economy.
Email us at info@oceanalliancecanada.ca
Please Note: Final Working Group selections will be confirmed during our September Steering Committee meeting.
Workforce Development
Indigenous Engagement
Ocean Policy & Action
Global Competitiveness
Be Part of Canada's Ocean Future
Join our national alliance of professionals, researchers, and employers building a sustainable ocean workforce.