2024 Cleantech Report: Central Canada's Path to Green Jobs and Innovation

Imagine a future where every innovation not only propels us forward but also protects the planet we call home. In Central Canada, this future is unfolding now, thanks to the growing Cleantech sector.

The Canadian government has been actively investing in the Cleantech sector since 2017, allocating over $2.3 billion for innovation, commercialization, and clean technology adoption. This sustained investment has cultivated a dynamic ecosystem of programs and services supporting Cleantech entrepreneurs and adopters nationwide.

As of July 2023, there were 2,427 Cleantech companies across Canadian provinces and sub-industries, with Ontario leading the way with 852 firms. Recognizing the potential and the need for skilled professionals in this booming sector, we have partnered with Boundless Accelerator to launch our 'Grow with Cleantech' program. This initiative is a shining example of how we’re supporting our members to not only navigate but thrive in the Cleantech sector. By offering tailored resources, Courses, and Coaching, we aim to empower individuals with the tools they need for Career Success in this dynamic field.


As we explore the thriving Cleantech landscape in Central Canada, consider this your invitation to join us in shaping a sustainable, prosperous future through meaningful employment opportunities in Cleantech.

Cleantech in Central Canada: An Overview

In Central Canada, including the provinces of Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec, the Cleantech industry is at the forefront of progress, emphasizing green initiatives and positive environmental impact. Let’s explore the Cleantech landscape of Central Canada, where this spirit of innovation intersects with a commitment to environmental responsibility.

Manitoba

Manitoba, a province at the forefront of sustainable energy practices, relies predominantly on low-emission hydroelectric dams to generate most of its electricity. With a surplus of electricity production, Manitoba exports power to the United States, Saskatchewan, and Ontario.


Having ceased using coal-fired electricity in 2018, the province is committed to a cleaner energy grid, leading to cleaner air and fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Notably, independent experts forecast the addition of 99,100 clean energy jobs in Manitoba between 2025 and 2050, contributing to economic growth.

Ongoing investments, such as the $40 billion commitment by the Government of Canada, further bolster the clean electricity sector in Manitoba, fostering economic opportunities and environmental sustainability. Recent initiatives, like federal funding for clean energy projects and the installation of electric vehicle chargers, showcase Manitoba's dedication to progressive and eco-friendly energy solutions at a business and consumer level.

Ontario

Ontario is at the forefront of Canadian Cleantech, leading the charge for nuclear power generation and advancements in small modular reactor (SMR) technologies.

By expanding non-emitting generation facilities like wind, solar, and SMRs, Ontario is paving the way for a more sustainable electricity grid while addressing the rising energy demands of its residents. Having phased out coal, Ontario has helped to reduce Canada's electricity emissions.


Clean Energy Canada predicts adding 731,000 clean energy jobs in Ontario between 2025 and 2050. Noteworthy projects, such as Canada's first grid-scale SMR at Ontario Power Generation's Darlington nuclear site, exemplify Ontario's commitment to innovation. Capable of powering 300,000 homes, the project is expected to generate 2,660 jobs throughout its lifetime. Meanwhile, renewable electricity projects tapping into solar and wind power are proving more cost-effective than natural gas.

Quebec

Quebec is helping lead the way in clean technology, with over 400 companies dedicated to sustainable practices. Montreal, a key player in the country’s carbon-neutral movement, is the first Canadian city in the Global Destination Sustainability Index and hosts impactful climate change initiatives.

In Montreal, Cleantech companies focus on pressing environmental issues like eco-friendly transportation, decarbonization, AgTech, bioenergy, sustainable aviation, waste, and water management. Montreal also boasts a well-educated workforce with over 575,800 STEM workers and 70,000-plus university students enrolled in Cleantech-related programs, making it a center for Cleantech innovation and expertise.

Cleantech Sub-Industries in Central Canada

In Canada, the Cleantech sector is composed of 10 sub-industries, shaping a sustainable future and fostering economic growth and employment opportunities. Below, we highlight 5 key Cleantech sub-sectors making waves in Central Canada and highlight via image the 10 sub-industries that currently define Cleantech in Canada.

Waste Management

• Implementation of advanced waste-to-energy technologies
• Development of smart waste management systems
• Recycling innovations for a circular economy

Renewable Energy

• Expansion of wind and solar energy projects
• Advancements in hydroelectric power generation
• Integration of innovative technologies for increased energy efficiency

Transportation

• Promotion of EVs and associated infrastructure
• Implementation of sustainable transportation solutions
• Research and development in green and autonomous mobility

Bioenergy and Bioproducts

• Utilization of bio-based materials in manufacturing
• Development of bioenergy sources for power generation
• Advancements in bioproducts contributing to a more sustainable economy.

Smart Grid and Energy Storage

• Integration of smart grid technologies for efficient energy distribution
• Research and implementation of advanced energy storage solutions
• Development of intelligent systems for demand-side management

5 Noteable Cleantech Companies in Central Canada

1. Adaptis

• Sub-industry - Energy Efficiency: Artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technologies for decarbonizing buildings
• Overview: Enables building owners, architects, and engineers to make informed decisions for decarbonizing buildings and lowering planning costs
• How it's changing the status quo: Applying AI to promote sustainable and cost-effective building practices
• Province: Ontario
• Number of employees: 24

2. Psigryph

• Sub-industry - Biofuels, Bioenergy, and Bioproducts: Foodtech for health, Nanopect^TM platform
• Overview: Develops foodtech for health and owns NanopectTM, a platform for biodegradable nanodelivery systems for living cells
• How it's changing the status quo: Innovating in food technology for health and sustainable nanodelivery systems
• Province: Ontario
• Number of employees: 6

3. Permalution

• Sub-industry - Water & Wastewater: Water collection and climate solutions
• Overview: Works on fog and cloud water collection technology and climate adaptation solutions
• How it's changing the status quo: Providing innovative solutions for water collection and climate adaptation
• Province: Quebec
• Number of employees: 1-10

4. EnerPure

• Sub-industry - Energy Efficiency: AI for decarbonizing buildings
• Overview: Using AI-powered technologies to inform decisions for decarbonizing buildings
• How it's changing the status quo: Applying artificial intelligence to improve building sustainability
• Province: Manitoba
• Number of employees: 13

5. CarboNet

• Sub-industry - Water and Wastewater: Recycled water
• Overview: Accelerating the world’s transition to recycled water with a new class of chemistry
• How it's changing the status quo: Offering a new class of chemistry for sustainable water treatment and recycling
• Province: Quebec
• Number of employees: 33

Up-and-coming Cleantech Startups in Central Canada

Manitoba

Theory Mesh

• Sub-industry - Precision, Agriculture, Forestry, and Biodiversity: Food supply chains
• Year founded: 2020
• Overview: Building traceable and transparent food supply chains for sustainability and food safety
• How it's changing the status quo: Enhances transparency and sustainability in food supply chains
• Number of employees: 1-10

Ontario

Bio Graphene Solutions

• Sub-industry - Mining, Processing, Materials, Manufacturing, and Industry: Graphene production from organic material
• Year founded: 2018
• Overview: Specializes in converting 100% of organic material (biochar) through an eco-friendly process to manufacture graphene, which is applied across various industries, from electronics to materials science
• How it's changing the status quo: Contributing to environmentally conscious manufacturing practices
• Number of employees: 8

Quebec

Maxen

• Sub-industry - Energy Efficiency: Building energy efficiency software
• Year founded: 2017
• Overview: Enhancing building energy efficiency through advanced management systems
• How it's changing the status quo: Transforming the way buildings manage their energy consumption
• Province: Quebec
• Number of employees: 11

Provincial Cleantech Growth Infrastructure + Funding

The central 3 provinces stand out for the established cleantech companies and growing cleantech startups that call these provinces home, showcasing a bright future for sustainable innovation.

These companies benefit from the established ecosystem that exists in Ontario, Manitoba, and Quebec to nurture and support cleantech companies and their workforce, providing them with the tools and resources they need to flourish. This ecosystem is not only beneficial for current entrepreneurs but also attracts workers aspiring to make a difference in their careers through the cleantech industry.


With numerous accelerators and agencies ready to help with the unique needs of Cleantech companies, the central provinces provide great opportunities for those looking to boost their careers in sustainability. Using our 'Grow with Cleantech' initiative with Boundless Accelerator as a model, Uvaro is eager to partner with more institutions across Canada to bring tailored skill development and career services to programs that meet the needs of the Cleantech workforce.

Ontario

MaRS Discovery District

• Situated in the heart of Toronto, the MaRS Discovery District stands as a beacon of innovation and entrepreneurship. MaRS provides a comprehensive suite of services to cleantech ventures, ranging from mentorship and market insights to funding opportunities. It acts as a bridge connecting startups with investors, corporates, and advisors, thereby accelerating the path from concept to commercialization. MaRS focuses on several key areas, including clean energy, smart cities, and sustainable finance, aiming to make Ontario a global leader in the cleantech industry.

Ontario Centres of Innovation (OCI)

• Ontario Center of Innovation plays a pivotal role in the province's innovation ecosystem by supporting ventures that integrate clean technologies into their business models. Offering funding programs, networking opportunities, and business development resources, OCI assists startups in overcoming commercialization hurdles. It encourages collaborations between academia and industry, ensuring that breakthrough research finds its way to the market, driving both economic and environmental benefits.

Boundless Accelerator

• Boundless Accelerator, formerly known as Innovation Guelph, has a growing role to play in supporting the cleantech sector. It offers unique programs and initiatives to support businesses from startup to scaleup for a strong, diverse, inclusive, sustainable economy. Boundless Accelerator equips cleantech companies with expert mentorship, resources, education, and connections to grow and thrive. It facilitates partnerships between academia and industry, ensuring innovative solutions reach commercialization while driving economic and environmental progress.

PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT: Boundless Accelerato and Uvaro, recently unveiled the 'Grow with Cleantech' program, marking a significant step forward in nurturing Canada's Cleantech workforce. This dynamic 16-week course is crafted to arm individuals with the vital sales skills and industry insights needed to thrive in the Canadian cleantech sector. It's a gateway to developing the art of cleantech business development, ensuring you're not just ready for the job market but poised to make a meaningful impact. Want to learn more about this program? Download the syllabus below!

Get the 'Grow With Cleantech' Program Syllabus!

Manitoba

North Forge Technology Exchange

• North Forge Technology Exchange is at the forefront of innovation in Manitoba, providing an essential blend of resources for cleantech startups and entrepreneurs. With its unique four-stage Founders Program, North Forge offers mentorship, funding assistance, and access to fabrication lab facilities. It supports the development and commercialization of clean technologies by fostering a community of innovators and providing them with the tools they need to bring their ideas to life. North Forge's emphasis on collaboration and networking further accelerates the growth of cleantech ventures in Manitoba.

Quebec

Écotech Québec

• Écotech Québec represents Quebec's cleantech cluster, acting as a unifying force for businesses, research institutions, and investors dedicated to the advancement of clean technologies. As the first organization of its kind in Canada, it aims to position Quebec as a global leader in the development and implementation of sustainable technological solutions. Écotech Québec facilitates collaboration, innovation, and market access for its members, offering a platform for networking, advocacy, and partnerships.

Cleantech companies and their workforce derive significant benefits from the specialized services and oversight provided by accelerators. Ontario, with its vibrant accelerator ecosystem, serves as a prime example. This ecosystem, while helpful, only reaches its full potential with additional support from organizations such as the Ontario Clean Technology Industry Association (OCTIA) and the Ontario Environment Industry Association (ONEIA), coupled with financial backing from sources like the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC). These entities are crucial for advocacy, networking, and, importantly, unlocking funding and resources.

To fully harness the innovation and talent within the cleantech sector, a greater emphasis on financial investment is imperative. Funding is not merely beneficial but foundational—it enables accelerators to effectively nurture startups and for initiatives like 'Grow with Cleantech' to expand. This scaling is vital for the workforce's development in this pivotal industry where success will be found selling outside of Canadian borders. We will continue to advocate for increased support and investment to drive Canada's cleantech sector and its workforce to achieve outstanding success.

A Promising Future Awaits Cleantech in Central Canada

In Central Canada, a Cleantech revolution is promising a sustainable future through innovation and resilience. Despite challenges like scaling and global outreach, vast opportunities for growth and pioneering change await.

Join Uvaro's 'Grow with Cleantech' program to make a tangible difference in this dynamic sector. Designed for Canada's aspiring Cleantech professionals, this initiative prepares you to lead and innovate, bridging the gap between potential and real-world success.

Seize this opportunity to enhance your skills and position yourself at the forefront of Cleantech innovation. Embark on our 16-week journey toward a greener, more prosperous world—your chance to be part of the solution starts now!