Backgrounder: DeepSense

Project Description

Halifax, Nova Scotia
Dalhousie University
ACOA Assistance: $5,979,010, non-repayable through Business Development Program (BDP)

Total Project Costs: $17,950,161

• This project will help Dalhousie University establish a shared computer analytics platform to be known as DeepSense, and assist with its operation for five years. DeepSense brings together universities, industry and government in a unique research partnership to grow the regional ocean economy.
• More than 300 companies are doing oceans-sector business in Nova Scotia with more than 60 creating new, high-tech products and services.¹ The province’s ocean tech products are in demand in more than 90 countries around the world, demonstrating global recognition of Nova Scotia’s expertise in the sector. ² Nova Scotia companies are pioneers in underwater acoustics, sensing and imaging.³
• The massive amount of data being accumulated by these sensors is not being used to its fullest capacity as most companies do not have enough computer power, nor the software applications needed to connect the data and scientific insights to commercial products.
• Ocean technology companies working with ocean and data scientists will be able to develop value-added software products for their customers, providing their clients with the capability to use and interpret data in new ways, as well as with enhanced data visualization abilities. This will help businesses expand their product lines, increase export opportunities and their ability to reach new customers.
• DeepSense will also provide a unique training opportunity in applied industry driven research and development for post-doctoral fellows and graduate students. This can attract international students to Atlantic Canada and will enrich the pool of technical talent with both analytics and ocean domain expertise necessary for the industry to grow.
• The DeepSense platform will build data analytics capacity in the ocean sector, attract investment opportunities, help generate wealth and create well-paying jobs.

¹ Nova Scotia Business Inc.: Oceans https://www.novascotiabusiness.com/business/oceans

² https://www.novascotiabusiness.com/sites/default/files/Ocean%20Tech_Infographics_3May2017_Web.pdf

³ Nova Scotia Business Inc.: Oceans https://www.novascotiabusiness.com/business/oceans