Cascadia Seaweed is an organization helping solve many of the world’s largest challenges such as climate change, food security, and economic instability through the process of seaweed farming in the ocean.
A discussion with the Cascadia Seaweed team
Why did you choose Sidney as the location for your business?
“I chose Sidney because it is a wonderful place to live and I had hoped as our workforce grew they would be able to settle in Sidney. Unfortunately, the extreme lack of affordable housing in the area meant our folks are commuting from all over. This is not good for our carbon footprint. However, being close to the water keeps everyone inspired to protect this world every day. That is the essence of Cascadia Seaweed.”
How would you describe your experience in the Sidney community?
“The municipal government and the business community at the northern part of the Peninsula are marching in lockstep towards a bright future. The values of Cascadia Seaweed are very much aligned with our business colleagues thus making it fun to work here and a collective will to be successful.”
What has been the most rewarding aspect of running your business so far?
“The recognition that it is possible to have an idea that is profitable and at the same time good for the environment.”
If you could give one piece of advice to a new entrepreneur, what would it be?
“Have a plan that considers patience, doggedness, determination, openness to new ideas and no pride of authorship.”
What are your short term and long-term goals for your business?
“In the short term, to encourage senior levels of government to innovate in the same way that businesses in Canada are told to innovate. That will further motivate investors. In the long term humans need to reorient their thinking to give back to the planet. This is because our business will measure success not only by profit and retained earnings but by the ecosystem services we provide and the wealth that can be generated by our coastal communities and First Nations.”