Trade & Economic Development

$20B Opportunity: How Seaspan Is Opening the Door for Local Businesses

There’s a defense and marine sector surge building on Vancouver Island—and it’s real.

In this conversation, Chad Hey (Director, Industrial Participation & Strategic Initiatives at Seaspan) breaks down what’s happening behind the scenes of Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy—and what it means for local small and medium-sized businesses.

💡 Key insights:

  • Up to $20 billion in economic impact projected through 2035
  • Over 11,000 jobs tied to the growing marine supply chain
  • More than 50% of suppliers are SMEs
  • A major supplier engagement push happening now

If you’re a business owner wondering how to access defense-sector opportunities—this is your entry point.

📍 Plus: Learn about the upcoming Marine & Defense Supplier Day (October 19, Vancouver) and how to get on the radar.

This is more than a conversation—it’s a roadmap into one of Canada’s fastest-growing economic sectors.