INNOVATION AT THE EDGE:
Located in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), Co. Innovation Centre (COIC) is redefining how we think about collaboration and innovation in NL. As a globally focused, industry-led hub, COIC is accelerating the province’s journey toward an innovation-driven economy. It’s more than a building—it’s a vision brought to life, fuelled by partnership and purpose.
The “Co.” in COIC stands for Converge, Collaborate, and Cocreate—principles that guide everything the centre does. By bringing people, industries, and ideas together, COIC creates a fertile ground for innovation and shared success.
“With COIC, we’re not just building a facility; we’re building a community,” says Meagan Kay-Fowlow, President of the COIC. “This is where businesses, thought leaders, and innovators can come together to solve big challenges and seize big opportunities.”
With its roots firmly planted in fostering advancements in remote operations, COIC is positioned to drive transformative growth across Newfoundland and Labrador. Established through the unwavering support of techNL, in partnership with Energy NL, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, Energy Research and Innovation Newfoundland and Labrador (ERINL), econext, and many other organizations and individuals, COIC is the culmination of over a decade of strategic planning.
Officially launched in December 2022 and opening its doors in June 2024, COIC operates from a state-of-the-art, 54,000-square-foot facility strategically located near the St. John’s International Airport. Its design facilitates collaboration, easy access to key industries, and proximity to provincial highways. This literal convergence of transportation and accessibility reflects the Centre’s broader mission: to bring together businesses, industries, and ideas in one unified space, fostering connections that drive innovation and growth.
A Space for Visionaries
COIC is more than a physical location—it’s a meeting ground for Convergence, Collaboration, and Co-Creation. Designed to inspire and support innovation, the space offers:
- Flexible desks, bookable offices, and modern meeting spaces
- Demonstration areas to showcase cutting-edge products and technologies
- Industry-led R&D and testing facilities
- Programming and events that bridge industries and connect people
“Our focus is on creating an environment where ideas converge, businesses co-create, and industries collaborate,” says Kay-Fowlow. “The possibilities are endless when you bring the right people together in the right space.”
Every corner of the centre is dedicated to sparking new ideas, encouraging cross-industry learning, and driving the future of Newfoundland and Labrador’s core industries.
Innovation with Purpose
At its heart, COIC is a catalyst for collaboration-driven innovation. By encouraging transformative advancements in technology, sustainability, and business, the centre supports the growth of local companies while amplifying their global impact. A key focus is on revolutionizing remote operations, with applications in sectors like mining, aquaculture, and renewable energy.
Through specialized programming, COIC is addressing real-world challenges:
- Developing critical infrastructure tailored to local needs
- Offering spaces for testing and showcasing technologies
- Connecting companies with local and international expertise
- Preparing businesses for export with access to essential resources
“Our goal is to empower local industries with the tools and partnerships they need to compete globally, “says Kay-Fowlow. “From cutting-edge technology to meaningful collaborations, COIC is here to make it happen. The centre is uniquely positioned to unlock Newfoundland and Labrador’s potential, advancing its industries and creating a more resilient economy.”
Sector Spotlight: Driving Innovation Across Industries
At Co. Innovation Centre, innovation isn’t confined to one sector—it’s a ripple effect that transforms industries across Newfoundland and Labrador. From harnessing renewable resources to advancing ocean technologies, COIC is empowering businesses to push boundaries, adopt cutting-edge solutions, and lead on the global stage.
Here’s how COIC is making an impact in key sectors driving the province’s economy:
Oil & Gas
As the energy sector embraces digitalization and innovation, COIC strives to play a vital role in driving solutions for greater efficiency and enhanced safety. Through collaboration and industry-led R&D, the centre helps businesses address challenges and transform how energy is produced, managed, and distributed.
Mining
While the mineral industry plays a key role in Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy, mining in the province is evolving, with an increased focus on efficiency, environmental responsibility, and safety. COIC will support this transition by connecting businesses with advanced technologies and industry-led R&D facilities, fostering a new era of innovative mining practices.
Ocean Technology
Ocean technology plays a crucial role in unlocking the potential of a sustainable blue economy. Newfoundland and Labrador’s ocean tech ecosystem is a global leader in marine robotics, underwater monitoring, aquaculture, defence, and offshore energy. COIC is focused on amplifying this expertise by connecting innovators, providing access to data and resources, and pushing the boundaries of ocean technology.
Wind & Hydrogen Energy
Business are harnessing wind, hydrogen, and water to develop cleaner, more efficient energy solutions. In its aim to support industry-led R&D and offering access to world-leading expertise, the centre is advancing the province’s role in the global energy transition.
Aerospace and Defence
Strategically located at the edge of North America and with a direct pathway to the Arctic, Newfoundland and Labrador is uniquely positioned for innovation in aerospace and defence. COIC will support this sector by providing access to experts, resources, and collaborative opportunities, strengthening the province’s reputation as a leader in these industries.
CO. INNOVATION CENTRE FAST FACTS
- Year Established: December 2022; officially opened June 7, 2024.
- Facility Size: Approximately 54,000 square feet of state-of-the-art innovation space.
- Strategic Location: Minutes from St. John’s International Airport and provincial highways.
- Core Focus Areas: Remote operations, digital transformation, cross-sector collaboration.
- Key Sectors Supported:
- Oil & Gas
- Mining
- Ocean Technology
- Renewable Resources (Wind & Hydrogen)
- Aerospace and Defence
- Manufacturing
- Partnership Power: Backed by techNL, Energy NL, Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, ERINL, and econext, with additional support from many other companies, organizations, and volunteers.
- Unique Amenities:
- Flexible workspaces and meeting rooms
- Industry-led R&D and testing facilities
- Demonstration spaces for products and technologies
- Cross-sector collaboration tailored programming
- Vision: Driving convergence, collaboration, and co-creation, to empower industries across Newfoundland and Labrador.
Manufacturing
The manufacturing sector not only stimulates local economies but also plays a vital role in supporting all sectors in the province. From3D printing to digital integration, manufacturing is at the forefront of innovation. COIC is supporting businesses to address gaps in local production, reduce costs, and create efficiencies that will benefit industries across Newfoundland and Labrador.
Transforming Possibilities into Realities
COIC represents the next chapter in Newfoundland and Labrador’s innovation story. By focusing on Convergence, Collaboration, and Co-creation, the centre is empowering industries and businesses, while shaping a future where possibilities become realities. COIC is Innovation at the Edge—pushing boundaries, connecting people, and inspiring change.
