CASE STUDY
BC Net Zero: Cleantech Adoption Through Collaboration
In 2022, Foresight launched the BC Net Zero Innovation Network (BCNZIN) with a foundational $7.5M from Pacific Economic Development Canada and the provincial Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation.
Leveraging ecosystem collaboration, the initiative developed a new model for accelerating the adoption of sustainable solutions and yielded a return of $211M in combined new revenue and private investment.
An Innovation Network Model that Delivers
Alongside a substantial ROI, successful job creation, and numerous export opportunities, the BCNZIN developed an Innovation Network model that is simple, powerful, and universally adaptable across Canada.
We turned our foundational investment into:
$211M
in combined new revenue and private investment
$31M+
in new export sales
128
SMEs assisted
437
HQP new jobs created
77
ecosystem projects
How the BCNZIN Accelerated Cleantech Adoption
The BCNZIN brought together industry partners, innovators, government, Indigenous Peoples, and academia to identify and implement clean technologies that solved shared economic and environmental challenges.
Our cluster model convened the brightest minds from British Columbia’s core industries—mining, forest bioeconomy, transportation, and water—through Working Groups. These Working Groups tackled sector-specific challenges through market-driven programming, collaborative projects, and ecosystem development—all of which collectively supported BC’s progress to a net-zero future.
Through collaborative efforts, the BCNZIN developed actionable strategies that give critical sectors the tools and roadmaps to:
- Reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions and enhance carbon management
- Improve energy efficiency across operations
- Accelerate and scale SMEs key sectors
- Transition to renewable energy sources
- Decarbonize industrial operations and transportation systems
- Implement sustainable water and forest management practices
- Optimize supply chain efficiency for greater resilience and value
SECTORAL WORKING GROUPS
Driving Sector-Specific Impact Through Collaboration
Working Group members get unparalleled access to a network of like-minded peers and forward-thinking organizations, offering tangible resources including affordable research, essential project development support, and cost-sharing initiatives.
These efforts can tackle specific sectoral challenges, enhance sustainability goals and ensure active, equitable, and impactful outcomes through collaboration.
BCNZIN is helping us stimulate economic growth by de-risking investment in the bioeconomy sector of a rural resource dependent region. Through strategic partnerships like the BCNZIN, we can all work together to create a better future for BC.
REGIONAL EXPERTISE, GLOBAL IMPACT
Leverage Canada’s Top Cleantech Sector Network
With a network spanning from coast to coast, we know that regional challenges demand localized expertise. We bridge the gap between Canada’s vital sectors—including food and water, infrastructure, and natural resources—and the world-class technology needed to future-proof them.
We provide:
Adoption Services
We de-risk the path to net zero by connecting industry leaders with vetted, market-ready cleantech solutions to solve their most pressing challenges.
Custom Research
Gain unparalleled insights into Canada’s cleantech landscape with data-driven reports tailored to your specific region, sector, and unique challenges.
Acceleration
Through numerous programs, we scale Canadian SMEs and strengthen the innovation ecosystem by providing the strategic frameworks, capital pathways, and market access required to turn high-potential ventures into global leaders.
Expert Mentorship
Leverage a national network of 250+ mentors and Executives in Residence (EIRs)—proven industry leaders dedicated to providing the tactical support necessary for global market success.
Ready to lead the net-zero transition?
Whether you are looking to launch a provincial initiative like BCNZIN, access regional support, or integrate clean technology into your operations, our team is ready to help.
Our Partners
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support from the Province of British Columbia, as well as past support from Pacific Economic Development Canada.
The BCNZIN was fortunate to work with leading industry and Indigenous partners to catalyze cleantech adoption through ecosystem projects:
BC News & Insights
-
![Electric Vehicle Charging Alliance]()
February 27, 2026 Report Electric Vehicle Charging Alliance BC’s educational institutions can accelerate the province's adoption of EVs. Through the BC Net Zero Innovation Network, Simon Fraser University and Foresight Canada are unlocking this opportunity. View Report -
![Lignin is the Untapped Catalyst for BC’s Green Economy]()
November 26, 2025 Report Lignin is the Untapped Catalyst for BC’s Green Economy By investing in the commercialization of BC's lignin, Canada's forestry industry can achieve three major benefits: new revenue, innovation, and a circular economy. A new report highlights how we can tap into this opportunity. View Report -
![BC Cleantech Export Report: Water]()
May 23, 2025 Report BC Cleantech Export Report: Water Water is an essential and irreplaceable resource. However, this critical resource is increasingly threatened, leading to scarcity and impacting communities worldwide. BC has a strong and growing water technology sector with expertise in water management, and an opportunity to lead on the global stage. View Report
