It's one thing to take on the challenge of bringing an innovative product to market. But figuring out how to build an entirely new industry requires next-level vision, creativity and passion. 

Mark Smith brings all of that and more to his role as the President and CEO of the Pacific Seaweed Industry Association. He and his tiny team are working with growers, manufacturers, distributors and governments – including First Nations – to scale seaweed production across Canada. And they're doing it in an environment that's short on infrastructure, production systems, clear regulations or even a market.

In this episode, Mark shares the backstory of how he and his colleagues at the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance managed to get the island designated as a foreign trade zone – then leverage that win to start building out the seaweed industry. 

We explore the incredible potential for seaweed products – including foods, biofuels that can replace fossil fuels, and nutriceuticals. 

And we unpack the secrets to his success to date and what's going to help the industry become a world leader, in a way that's economically, culturally and environmentally sustainable.   

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