Pacific Ocean Discovery Station Enters Next Phase of Construction
Community celebration signals progress toward a world-class centre for ocean/climate research, Indigenous knowledge, education, and culture on the Sunshine Coast.
The Loon Foundation, in collaboration with the shíshálh Nation and Capilano University, held a milestone event to celebrate a new phase of development of the Pacific Ocean Discovery Station (PODS).
Gathering community members, partners, supporters, and local MLA Randene Neill, the celebration marks the next phase of construction, bringing this transformative community vision one step closer to reality in ḵalpilin (Pender Harbour), on the teḵwiyá (world, birthplace, territory) of the shíshálh Nation.
After more than a decade of planning, partnership-building, and investment, PODS is advancing from Phase One site preparation and project development into Phase Two major construction.
With more than $10 million invested to make the project shovel-ready, the Loon Foundation and its partners are now focused on delivering a destination that will inspire learning, innovation, cultural connection, and environmental stewardship for generations to come.
"This has been a period of tremendous progress and heart," said Lana Brandt, Executive Director of the Loon Foundation.
"Together with our partners, we have strengthened the project's financial foundation, secured support from federal and provincial governments, attracted private investment, and refined our business model to ensure long-term sustainability.
"Today marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. We are profoundly grateful for the community support to date, and invite community members to remain part of the journey."
Phase Two of the project includes the construction of the cutting-edge mass timber facility that will serve as a hub for climate and ocean research, education, Indigenous knowledge sharing, cultural programming, and community engagement.
Significant progress has been made toward the project's capital goals, with government contributions, philanthropic support, and private donations helping to advance construction. As PODS moves toward completion, opportunities remain for individuals, families, businesses, and foundations to play a meaningful role in bringing the project to life. Leadership gifts and naming opportunities are now available, offering supporters the chance to create a lasting legacy while helping establish one of British Columbia's most innovative centres for ocean discovery and environmental learning.
"What you are creating at PODS as a research centre of excellence, as a place to gather as a community, and welcome visitors in to learn about our community, this is a game changer not only for the Sunshine Coast, but for the entire province," said MLA for Powell River–Sunshine Coast Randene Neill, who also serves as provincial Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship.
The PODS project would not be possible without the support of our community. The Loon Foundation will continue to share updates as this construction phase progresses.
The Loon Foundation works with Sunshine Coast communities to protect and restore aquatic ecosystems through science, education, and collaborative stewardship. The Foundation's work is rooted in partnership, place-based knowledge, and a commitment to long-term ecosystem health.
