A familiar force in Canada’s clean energy ecosystem is stepping into a new era. The BC Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has rebranded as NorthX Climate Tech, expanding its mission and signalling a national commitment to scaling climate hard tech solutions that can power real-world decarbonization.
Launched in 2021 to accelerate clean energy breakthroughs, CICE quickly became a critical bridge between early-stage innovation and deployment. Backed by the Government of British Columbia, the Government of Canada, and Shell Canada, the organization has supported 65 climate solutions and contributed to the creation of over 800 jobs.
Now, it’s evolving.
“We’re broadening our focus to back the best climate hard tech innovations—period,” writes Sarah Goodman, President and CEO of NorthX Climate Tech. “That means getting behind strong solutions early and doubling down as they scale.”
The new name, NorthX, reflects both national ambition and catalytic intent. “North is a signal to lead. It stands for a Canada that builds—not just for itself, but for the world,” Goodman explained. “X is the inflection point—where potential meets opportunity. Where innovation becomes industry.”
NorthX will continue to prioritize areas like energy storage, clean fuels, hydrogen, and carbon management, while also targeting larger-scale infrastructure and industrial transformation projects. “Climate hard tech isn’t an app—it’s steel, circuits, and chemistry,” Goodman noted. “It’s what powers industries and transforms systems.”
The rebrand comes with an updated investment strategy. In addition to its non-dilutive grants, NorthX will now provide repayable, non-dilutive investments—designed to bridge funding gaps and accelerate commercialization. The organization is also expanding its follow-on investment model to support companies beyond the pilot phase.
“This strengthens the companies we support and allows us to recycle capital into future breakthroughs,” said Goodman. “It’s a new model for impact, designed for Canada’s climate economy.”
NorthX’s renewed commitment is rooted in the belief that cleantech isn’t just a climate solution—it’s a nation-building opportunity.
“To the entrepreneurs, innovators, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers shaping this future: we’re with you,” Goodman said. “Let’s back the bold. Let’s build what matters. Together.”