Semi-finalists
These 10 semi-finalists were selected from a pool of 87 submissions:
Aqua-Guard Spill Response Inc.
Aqua-Guard Spill Response Incorporated’s proposed solution involves recovery module(s) that mechanically recover floating oil sheens with unprecedented high oil/water efficiency.
Coastal First Nations Great Bear Initiative
Coastal First Nations Great Bear Initiative’s proposed solution involves a highly efficient, modular oil skimming system that can be easily packed into totes and transported by First Nations community responders for fast response to spills in coastal waters.
Concordia University
Concordia University’s proposed solution involves the use of multifunction surface washing agents as an efficient and scalable solution for enhanced oil spill response on Canadian shorelines.
Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University’s proposed solution involves the development of a rapidly deployable system of surface and underwater robotic vehicles with state-of-the-art sensors, profiling systems, and samplers to inform oil spill decision-making and response.
LGM Canada Corp.
LGM Canada’s proposed solution involves enhancing mechanical recovery with an oil boom that has a permeable skirt treated with a coating to block oil but pass water thereby increasing tow speeds and reducing tow forces.
SeaChange Marine Conservation Society
SeaChange Marine Conservation Society’s proposed solution involves the detection and systematic mapping of anomalies, such as oil and other contaminants, through the use of water based induced polarization.
Tactical Electronics
Tactical Electronics’ proposed solution involves an innovative remotely operated surface vehicle (ROSV) capable of effectively detecting, characterizing, tracking, and ultimately expediting the recovery of oil spills in Canada's diverse aquatic environments.
University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba’s proposed solution involves the use of a drone to fly an advanced suite of sensors over a potential spill region, to detect signs of oil by sensing differences between uncontaminated and contaminated sea ice.
University of Northern British Columbia
The University of Northern British Columbia’s proposed solution involves a mobile system that integrates nano/micro bubble gas flotation with adsorption, for environmentally friendly and quick oil recovery from oily wastewater collected from oil spill response.
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto’s proposed solution involves a system that allows for in-situ treatment of decanted water stored in response vessels to increase storage capacity and speed oil spill response.
Challenge details
Who can apply
Eligible applicants to the Challenge include the following:
- For-profit and not-for-profit organizations such as companies, industry associations and research centres
- Indigenous organizations and groups located in Canada
- Post-secondary/academic institutions
- Individual or groups that are recognized legal entities
- International individuals and entities*
*Must have, or partner with, a legal entity in Canada.
Prizes
- Ten semi-finalists will be selected to receive up to $300,000 each to support the development of their technology prototype
- Five finalists with the top solutions will be selected for up to an additional $1 million each to continue to scale and demonstrate their technology
- $2 million Grand Prize will be given to the team with the best demonstrated technology
Key Dates
- March 9, 2022: Applications Open
- June 1, 2022: Deadline to apply
- Summer 2022: Selection of ten semi-finalists