The Government of British Columbia has committed $3.38 million in funding to support the development and deployment of eight innovative technology projects across key sectors, including transportation and healthcare. Administered through Innovate BC’s Integrated Marketplace (IM) program, this investment is designed to facilitate collaboration between B.C.-based technology companies and established operational testbeds in the Lower Mainland.
These initiatives focus on addressing real-world challenges such as emissions reduction, operational efficiency, healthcare delivery, and workforce safety. The Integrated Marketplace provides a structured framework for innovators to test, validate, and scale solutions within active environments, thereby accelerating commercialization and export potential.
“British Columbia’s technology sector continues to demonstrate exceptional leadership in developing forward-thinking solutions for both local and global challenges,” stated Diana Gibson, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “This investment supports job creation, economic resilience, and the adoption of innovative technologies that make a meaningful impact.”
Vancouver Fraser Port Authority: Advancing Maritime and Logistics Innovation
Five of the eight projects will be deployed in collaboration with the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, focusing on decarbonization, data analytics, and infrastructure modernization:
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Zero-Emission Marine Transport
A $1 million grant has been awarded to a partnership between Tymac Launch Services (Vancouver) and 3GA Marine (Victoria) for the development of an electric water taxi. This vessel will provide a zero-emission alternative to traditional marine transportation, supporting cleaner operations within the port. -
Automated Crane Implementation at Vancouver Wharves
An additional $1 million has been allocated to PKM Canada Marine Terminal LP to modernize its operations through the installation of a semi-automated crane. The equipment is expected to increase efficiency in railcar handling while enhancing workplace safety. -
AI-Driven Marine Forecasting
MarineLabs and the Pacific Pilotage Authority received $575,000 to evaluate the effectiveness of “Forecast AI,” a platform offering hyper-local marine weather forecasts. The system will be assessed for its ability to improve navigational decision-making in dynamic environmental conditions. -
Traffic Pattern Analysis at Second Narrows Bridge
A project examining vessel and rail traffic flow around Vancouver’s Second Narrows Bridge has been awarded $122,500. The study aims to optimize bridge lift schedules by analyzing delays and movement patterns, ultimately improving operational coordination. -
Container Volume Forecasting
A grant of $71,653 was provided to Simon Fraser University’s Big Data Hub to develop a predictive model capable of forecasting import container volumes. This tool will support proactive decision-making across supply chain and logistics stakeholders.
Provincial Health Services Authority: Enhancing Patient Care Through Technology
In the healthcare sector, a $287,000 investment has been directed toward a partnership between MindfulGarden Digital Health and the Royal Columbian Hospital Foundation’s Advancing Innovation in Medicine (AIM) Institute. The project will assess the effectiveness of an interactive software solution designed to calm patients experiencing agitation or delirium in intensive care units.
This proprietary technology uses biofeedback and responsive audiovisual stimuli to reduce patient distress, presenting an alternative to the conventional use of antipsychotic medications or physical restraints. The trial aims to validate the tool’s potential as a compassionate, non-invasive support method in critical care settings.
Vancouver International Airport: Electrifying Ground Operations
Two additional projects at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) are centered on the adoption of electric ground support equipment:
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Electric Ground Support Equipment Pilot
With $182,000 in support, Hallor Group and Strategic Aviation will pilot electric-powered vehicles for ground operations at YVR. This project aligns with broader sustainability objectives to reduce emissions and modernize airport infrastructure. -
Deployment of Electric Baggage Tractors
A separate grant of $143,360 will allow Hallor Group, in partnership with KF Aerospace, to replace internal combustion engine baggage tractors with fully electric, cabbed units. The upgrade is expected to enhance operational reliability, reduce fuel consumption, and lower long-term maintenance costs.
“This funding is instrumental in helping our company bring next-generation ground support equipment to market,” stated Dean Kneider, CEO of Hallor Group. “We are proud to contribute to greener aviation operations and strengthen B.C.’s domestic manufacturing capabilities.”
Program Scope and Future Outlook
The Integrated Marketplace program has been established to accelerate the commercial readiness of local innovations by offering access to real-world operational testbeds. This initiative supports not only technology development but also long-term economic and environmental sustainability.
The $3.38 million disbursed in this round is part of a larger funding commitment, including an initial $11.5 million investment from the Province of British Columbia, an additional $30 million pledged over the next three years, and $9.9 million in federal support through PacifiCan.
Together, these contributions aim to position British Columbia as a national leader in applied innovation, while fostering the development of export-ready technologies with global relevance.
