The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, today announced an investment of $456,885 from the Business Growth Program to support Sikumiut Environmental Management Ltd. (SEM) in developing a geospatial data management platform known as the Geospatial Management System (GeMS). As part of this initiative, SEM will establish a new technology division focused on developing and licensing software applications through the GeMS platform to address sector-specific concerns locally and beyond.
The GeMS platform is a user-friendly digital solution aimed at transforming how industries manage and analyze geospatial data. Unlike traditional geospatial tools that require specialized technical expertise and manual data handling, GeMS will offer an intuitive digital platform that will streamline data collection, analysis and reporting. The GeMS system will support regulatory and environmental compliance, improve operational efficiency, enhance asset maintenance, and strengthen data driven decision-making.
This funding will enable the company to execute a proof-of-concept project that integrates advanced data management techniques with geospatial analytics. This project will result in new skilled employment opportunities, strengthen SEM’s position in the geospatial technology market, and offer digital products for sectors such as mining, renewable energy, utilities, and government services. Through this innovation, SEM aims to improve access to geospatial insights and support sustainable project development across Canada.
Founded in 2002 as an environmental consulting firm, SEM has evolved its services to meet the growing needs of clients across Newfoundland and Labrador. A locally owned and registered Indigenous business, SEM has increasingly adopted technology-driven solutions to address complex environmental and infrastructure challenges.
The Provincial Government’s funding leverages a client contribution of $561,358, for a total project investment of $1,018,243. The Business Growth Program provides non-repayable contributions for projects or initiatives to assist businesses start, innovate, scale and improve sales locally, nationally or internationally.
Quotes
“Newfoundland and Labrador is positioned to become a significant player in the geospatial technology sector due to its outstanding expertise and innovative approaches. Through its GeMS development project, SEM continues to be a great provincial partner in helping promote sustainable and efficient solutions.”
Honourable Steve Crocker,
Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology
“Through the Business Growth Program, our investment in SEM empowers Indigenous environmental leadership, builds sustainability, and ensures that cutting-edge, culturally grounded solutions shape Newfoundland and Labrador’s path towards net zero.”
Honourable Scott Reid
Mnister Responsible for Indigenous Affairs and Reconciliation
Minister Responsible for Environment and Climate Change
“We are thrilled to be able to bring GeMS to life, providing industries with a powerful tool to simplify geospatial data management and drive smarter decision-making. This investment allows us to innovate and expand, positioning SEM at the forefront of geospatial technology. We sincerely thank the Provincial Government for their support which is instrumental in advancing this project and fostering growth in the geospatial sector.”
Stephen Rowe
Vice-president of Innovation and Development, SEM Ltd.
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Business Growth Program
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