Atlantic Canada’s cleantech sector took centre stage in Halifax last night, as pHathom Technologies and CarbonRun were among the top honourees at the inaugural Atlantic Canada Cleantech Awards, hosted by Foresight Canada.
The sold-out ceremony recognized regional innovators driving sustainability and economic resilience. Halifax-based pHathom Technologies was named Startup Venture of the Year for its novel use of limestone and seawater to capture CO₂ and counteract ocean acidification. CEO Kim Gilbert called the recognition “an honour,” adding, “We’re proud to be doing this work in a region that understands resilience, collaboration, and bold ideas.”
CarbonRun, awarded Scaleup Venture of the Year, was celebrated for its river-based carbon removal strategy, which restores salmon habitats while permanently sequestering carbon. Co-founder and CTO Dr. Jonathon Halfyard emphasized the company’s dual mission: “We hope to live up to your expectations by continuing to fight climate change while also restoring and enhancing the ecosystems we depend on.”
The awards come at a time of rising momentum for Atlantic Canada’s clean economy. In 2024 alone, the federal government, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), invested $72 million in 166 cleantech projects, with a goal of creating 100,000 clean energy jobs by 2050.
Other award recipients included:
- City of Summerside (Adopter of the Year) for its leadership in smart grid expansion and clean transportation.
- Dalhousie University (Supporter of the Year) for its cutting-edge work in clean fuels and battery innovation.
- Carbon to Sea (Funder of the Year) for advancing ocean-based carbon removal research.
Foresight Canada CEO Jeanette Jackson praised the winners for their impact: “Your innovative spirit is propelling the region’s cleantech growth in exciting new directions.”
With growing investment, scientific leadership, and startup success, Atlantic Canada is positioning itself as a global cleantech force.