The B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE), a not-for-profit supporting made-in-B.C. green technologies, will provide $1.5 million in non-dilutive funding to Cascadia Seaweed, the largest ocean cultivator of seaweed in Canada.

“We are thrilled to receive support from CICE, which will accelerate our plans to scale up the cultivation and bioprocessing of seaweeds into agricultural products,” said Rob Napoli, CFO of Cascadia Seaweed, in a press release. “This builds on the support we’ve received from Sustainable Development Technology Canada and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and enables us to deliver nature-based and climate-positive solutions in a timely manner.”

Sidney-based Cascadia Seaweed develops sea-grown products for land-based farmers. Through its kelp farms, the company aims to provide ocean ecosystem services such as shelter for marine life, carbon sequestration, and oxygen production. Once harvested, Cascadia processes the kelp into agricultural products, including biostimulants for crops and cattle supplements.

The climatetech startup will direct the funds towards the development of a 100-hectare seaweed farm and bioprocessing facility in Prince Rupert. The expansion is a partnership between the company and the Metlakatla Development Corporation, the business arm of the Metlakatla First Nation.

“This commendable joint initiative reduces methane emissions from cattle and improves soil carbon retention,” said Ged McLean, executive director of CICE. “Recognizing the vital role of kelp in future carbon management solutions, CICE is excited to support Cascadia in becoming a global leader in seaweed cultivation, pioneering first-of-its-kind advancements on the west coast.”

In a previous project to extend the shelf life of fresh seaweed, Cascadia Seaweed won $37,000 from the Canadian Food Innovation Network.