St. John's
Quick Facts
Province: Newfoundland
and Labrador (Capital City)
Population: 185,330
A maritime port on the edge of the North Atlantic, St. John’s is an international centre of ocean excellence. The thriving energy industry has made this city the primary business centre for east coast oil exploration and earned it a membership in the World Energy Cities Partnership, an organization of the world's most prominent energy capitals. Not many cities can boast iceberg and whale watching as near as your kitchen window. But, then, St. John’s — Canada’s most easterly city and centre closest to Europe — is in a class by itself.
Key Advantages
- Development and production in the vast Hibernia, Terra Nova and White Rose oil fields with a fourth offshore oil project, Hebron expected to be running by 2016
- International oil companies and over 350 supply and service firms are currently injecting over $770 million into the local economy, generating jobs for more than 6,600 people
- Hub for the fishery and offshore energy industry and the rapidly growing ocean technology and marine biotechnology sectors
- Home to 52 ocean technology companies that are developing innovations ranging from robotics and intelligence systems to radar and navigational aids, and safety and survival systems — the sector enjoys 18% annual growth and is valued at $225 million
- Immerging marine biotechnology industry has shown expertise in molecular genetics, vaccines, diagnostics and species identification
- Home to the Long Harbour project office of Vale Inco which has committed to building a nickel processing plant in Long Harbour located about 1 hours drive from St. John’s to be commissioned in 2012
- Newly reconstructed St. John's International Airport provides scheduled, charter and executive jet services and offers direct flights to the US and major Canadian cities
- Spectacular ocean views, wonderful urban parks and significant historical sites drew over 975,000 visitors from around the globe in 2008, injecting $337 million throughout the local economy
Sector Strengths
- Offshore Energy
- Ocean Technology
- Fishery and Marine Biotechnology
- Marine Tourism
- Education and Training
- Research and Development
