The federal government announced on March 16, 2009 the establishment of the Ocean Networks Canada Centre for Enterprise and Engagement (ONCCEE), a new Centre of Excellence for Commercialization and Research. ONCCEE, based at the University of Victoria, will receive $6.6 million over five years to maximize the economic and societal benefits of the VENUS and NEPTUNE Canada ocean observatories.
The newly established Centre for Enterprise and Engagement will focus on creating new and strengthening existing links between research and industry in four main areas:
- Sensors and Instruments
- Ocean system technologies
- Ocean Information Technology
- Public outreach and education
“The Government of Canada is investing in science and technology to create jobs, strengthen the economy and improve quality of life of Canadians,” said Andrew Saxton, MP for North Vancouver at the announcement.
VENUS is an example of how partnership between Canadian industry and a dedicated group of researchers can expand the boundaries and create ocean research facility that is built on innovative ideas implemented in the leading edge engineering solutions. Industrial partners of VENUS that have been instrumental in development and deployment of the VENUS subsea network include OceanWorks International Inc. (Canada, BC), ASL Environmental Solutions (Canada, BC), ODI Inc. (USA, FL), Weir-Jones Inc. (Canada, BC).
VENUS is looking forward to continue ocean systems development with our industrial partners and welcomes new collaborations.
See ONC website, www.oceannetworkscanada.ca for more information.
