GSTS Boosts AI Maritime Platform with Key Federal Funding

DARTMOUTH, NS – March 18, 2026 – Global Spatial Technology Solutions (GSTS), a maritime intelligence firm based in Atlantic Canada, is poised for significant expansion after securing two federal contributions to advance its artificial intelligence-driven platform, OCIANA. The funding, provided by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), is set to accelerate the commercialization of a technology already in use by Canadian and allied defence agencies, while also bolstering the company's workforce and facilities.

The Dual-Use Power of AI on the High Seas

At the heart of GSTS's operations is OCIANA, a sophisticated AI platform designed to provide comprehensive maritime domain awareness. The system functions by ingesting and analyzing a vast array of data sources in real-time—from satellites, terrestrial sensors, oceanographic reports, and operational vessel data. By applying patented algorithms, OCIANA can identify anomalies, predict vessel movements, and provide actionable intelligence to its users.

This capability gives the platform a powerful dual-use advantage, serving two distinct yet interconnected sectors. On the defence and security front, OCIANA is already an operational tool for Canada, its NATO allies, and members of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. It enhances maritime situational awareness, allowing military and security agencies to monitor vessel traffic, identify potential threats, and make faster, better-informed decisions to protect national interests.

Simultaneously, the platform offers significant value to the commercial shipping world. Ports, shipping lines, and pilotage authorities use OCIANA to optimize logistics, improve operational efficiency, and mitigate risks. The system's predictive analytics can forecast vessel arrival times with greater accuracy, manage port congestion, and optimize routes for fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. This dual focus on security and logistics positions GSTS to address a wide spectrum of challenges facing the global maritime ecosystem.

Federal Funding Fuels Expansion and Commercialization

The new support from ACOA, delivered as two repayable contributions through the Regional Development and Innovation Infrastructure (RDII) program, marks a critical step in GSTS’s growth trajectory. The first contribution is earmarked for facility expansion and workforce development. This will allow the company to scale its operations, expand product development capacity, and address what the company terms "key skills gaps" in the specialized fields of AI and maritime technology.

The second contribution directly targets the continued commercialization of OCIANA. While the platform is already operational, this investment will strengthen its commercial readiness and expand its application across more mission-critical use cases in the defence and supply chain sectors. The exact monetary value of the contributions was not disclosed, but they are part of a broader federal initiative to bolster the competitiveness of Atlantic Canadian businesses.

"These projects help move GSTS forward at an important stage in our growth," said Richard Kolacz, CEO of GSTS, in a statement. "The support from ACOA is enabling us to expand our capabilities, strengthen our team, and accelerate the commercialization of OCIANA® to meet growing market demand in defence, maritime security, and supply chain visibility."

This funding is part of a wider strategy by the Canadian government. The RDII program, a three-year, $379.2 million initiative, aims to strengthen innovation and commercialization, with ACOA managing a $38.2 million portion for the Atlantic region. GSTS's project is one of 16 in Atlantic Canada to receive support under this initiative, highlighting the strategic importance placed on its technology.

Navigating a Competitive Digital Ocean

GSTS is not alone in the burgeoning field of maritime AI. The market is becoming increasingly crowded with companies offering solutions for vessel route optimization, fleet management, and maritime domain awareness. Competitors range from large established maritime technology firms to agile startups, all vying to digitize and optimize an industry traditionally slow to adopt new technologies. Key areas of competition include the development of AI for real-time voyage optimization, predictive fuel analytics, and autonomous navigation systems.

However, GSTS has carved out a distinct position with OCIANA's unique feature set. Its established use within high-level security and defence circles provides a level of validation and trust that is difficult for new entrants to replicate. Furthermore, its ability to be configured for the specific geographic, operational, and regulatory needs of any port globally offers a tailored solution that one-size-fits-all platforms may lack.

The company is also pushing the boundaries of innovation with ambitious new projects. This includes the development of what it aims to be the "world's first dynamic, fully collaborative, integrated, Berth Schedule Management System," a solution designed to function like air traffic control for marine vessels. This system aims to perfect Just-in-Time (JIT) arrivals, a long-sought goal in shipping that promises massive reductions in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating the need for ships to wait at anchor outside busy ports.

A Beacon for Canadian Innovation

The story of GSTS is also a story of regional economic development and national technological leadership. Based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, the company is a key player in Canada's Ocean Supercluster, a national network designed to foster ocean-related innovation.

One of the ACOA-supported projects is directly connected to a major Ocean Supercluster initiative. GSTS is leading a $12 million project to develop its Collaborative Berth Scheduler. This project, supported by a $5 million investment from the Supercluster's Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy program, brings together a consortium of major industry players, including Canada Steamship Lines, the Montreal Port Authority, the Laurentian Pilotage Authority, and the non-profit research organization Clear Seas.

This collaboration is a testament to the ecosystem-based approach to innovation being championed in Canada. By connecting a technology developer (GSTS) with end-users (a shipping line and a port authority) and regulatory bodies (a pilotage authority), the project aims to create a practical, market-ready solution that addresses real-world problems. The ultimate goal is to establish Green Digital Shipping Corridors, where data flows seamlessly between ship and shore to create safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable maritime passages. This initiative not only enhances the global competitiveness of its Canadian partners but also solidifies Canada's reputation as a leader in sustainable maritime technology.