UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 6-K

 

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the month of November 2023

 

Commission File No. 001-39730

 

VISION MARINE TECHNOLOGIES INC.

(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

 

730 Boulevard du Curé-Boivin

Boisbriand, Québec, J7G 2A7, Canada

(Address of principal executive office)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F

 

Form 20-F       x          Form 40-F     ¨

 

Attached as Exhibit 99.1 is the registrant’s audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal years ended August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022, and attached as Exhibit 99.2 is the registrant’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023.

 

The information contained in Exhibits 99.1 and 99.2 to this Report on Form 6-K is hereby incorporated by reference into the registrant’s Registration Statement on Form F-3 (File No. 333-267893) and Registration Statement on Form S-8 (File No. 333-264089).

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.   Exhibit
99.1   Audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022
99.2   Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2023
99.3   Form 52-109F1 Certification of Annual Filings – CEO
99.4   Form 52-109F1 Certification of Annual Filings – CFO

 

 

 

SIGNATURE

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

  VISION MARINE TECHNOLOGIES INC.

 

Date: November 27, 2023 By: /s/ Kulwant Sandher
  Name: Kulwant Sandher
  Title: Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.1

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Consolidated financial statements

August 31, 2023 and 2022

 

 

 

 

Report of independent registered public accounting firm

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Vision Marine Technologies Inc. [the “Company”] as of August 31, 2023 and 2022, the related consolidated statements of changes in shareholders’ equity (deficit), comprehensive loss and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2023, and the related notes [collectively referred to as the “consolidated financial statements”]. In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company at August 31, 2023 and 2022, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 2023, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards [“IFRS”] as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

The Company's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, the Company has suffered recurring losses from operations, and has stated that substantial doubt exists about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Management's evaluation of the events and conditions and management’s plans regarding these matters are also described in Note 2. The consolidated financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) [“PCAOB”] and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

 

We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2021.

 

Montréal, Canada

November 27, 2023

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Consolidated statements of financial position

 

[Going concern uncertainty – see note 2]

 

As at August 31,

 

   2023   2022 
   $   $ 
Assets          
Current          
Cash   3,359,257    5,824,716 
Trade and other receivables [note 6]   550,836    472,548 
Income tax receivable   98,540    - 
Inventories [note 7]   2,445,554    2,093,776 
Prepaid expenses   1,973,591    2,472,301 
Grants and investment tax credits receivable [note 21]   -    681,663 
Share subscription receivable [note 17]   39,200    39,200 
Advances to related parties [note 17]   20,135    16,736 
Total current assets   8,487,113    11,600,940 
Investment in Limestone [note 8]   -    2,435,000 
Right-of-use assets [note 9]   2,414,593    2,261,100 
Property and equipment [note 10]   2,313,926    2,218,982 
Intangibles [note 11]   966,724    1,112,670 
Deferred income taxes [note 23]   68,460    - 
Goodwill [note 5]   9,680,941    9,352,640 
Other financial assets   114,755    118,877 
Total assets   24,046,512    29,100,209 
           
Liabilities and shareholders’ equity          
Current          

Credit facility [note 12]

   155,000    - 
Trade and other payables [notes 13 & 17]   1,754,900    1,030,331 
Provision on onerous contracts   91,667    - 
Income tax payable   -    3,188 
Contract liabilities [note 14]   1,815,731    1,029,318 
Current portion of lease liabilities [note 15]   647,638    561,168 
Current portion of long-term debt [note 16]   271,546    72,090 
Other financial liabilities   113,695    177,834 
Total current liabilities   4,850,177    2,873,929 
Lease liabilities [note 15]   1,994,156    1,854,381 
Long-term debt [note 16]   33,783    155,259 
Derivative liabilities [note 18]   5,558,822    - 
Deferred income taxes [note 23]   45,137    188,044 
Total liabilities   12,482,075    5,071,613 
           
Shareholders’ equity          
Capital stock [note 18]   50,395,717    43,441,591 
Contributed surplus [note 19]   11,684,829    10,560,886 
Accumulated other comprehensive income   1,032,628    697,671 
Deficit   (51,548,737)   (30,671,552)
Total shareholders’ equity   11,564,437    24,028,596 
    24,046,512    29,100,209 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Consolidated statements of changes in equity (deficit)

 

[Going concern uncertainty – see note 2]

 

Year ended August 31,

 

                            Accumulated        
                            other        
                Contributed
          comprehensive        
    Capital stock     surplus     Deficit     income     Total  
    Units     $     $     $     $     $  
Shareholders’ equity as at August 31, 2020   4,585,001    2,497,813    739,961    (2,445,859)   -    791,915 
Total comprehensive loss   -    -    -    (15,113,907)   388,566    (14,725,341)
Share issuance, net of transactions costs of nil [note 18]   595,715    2,231,999    -    -    -    2,231,999 
Initial Public Offering, net of transactions costs of $3,328,687   2,760,000    33,158,513    -    -    -    33,158,513 
Conversion of related party loans into shares [note 17 &18]   69,650    898,489    -    -    -    898,489 
Shares issued as consideration for the acquisition of intangible assets [note 11 & 18]   30,000    573,936    -    -    -    573,936 
Shares issued as consideration in a business combination [note 5 & 18]   284,495    3,474,232    -    -    -    3,474,232 
Share-based compensation [note 19]   -    -    7,121,444    -    -    7,121,444 
Shareholders’ equity as at August 31, 2021   8,324,861    42,834,982    7,861,405    (17,559,766)   388,566    33,525,187 
Total comprehensive loss   -    -    -    (13,111,785)   309,105    (12,802,680)
Share issuance, net of transactions costs of nil [note 18]   93,062    606,609    -    -    -    606,609 
Share-based compensation [note 19]   -    -    2,699,481    -    -    2,699,481 
Shareholders’ equity as at August 31, 2022   8,417,923    43,441,591    10,560,886    (30,671,551)   697,671    24,028,597 
Total comprehensive loss   -    -    -    (20,877,186)   334,957    (20,542,229)
Share issuance – options exercised   57,219    175,699    (12,239)   -    -    163,460 
Share issuance, net of transactions costs of $800,744 [note 18]   2,697,658    6,778,427    -    -    -    6,778,427 
Share-based compensation [note 19]   -    -    1,136,182    -    -    1,136,182 
Shareholders’ equity as at August 31, 2023   11,172,800    50,395,717    11,684,829    (51,548,737)   1,032,628    11,564,437 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Consolidated statements of comprehensive loss

 

[Going concern uncertainty – see note 2]  

 

Year ended August 31,

 

   2023   2022   2021 
   $   $   $ 
Revenues [note 20]   5,651,502    7,350,946    3,513,788 
Cost of sales [note 7]   4,023,409    4,065,381    1,909,606 
Cost of sales – E-Motion   91,667    -    - 
Gross profit   1,536,426    3,285,565    1,604,182 
                
Expenses               
Research and development [note 17]   5,704,912    2,242,794    1,489,953 
Office salaries and benefits [note 17]   4,014,181    3,335,799    1,754,613 
Selling and marketing expenses   3,470,772    1,972,306    1,086,057 
Professional fees   3,764,465    3,590,816    1,633,477 
Office and general   3,100,024    1,949,583    1,239,457 
Share-based compensation [note 19]   1,136,182    2,699,481    7,121,444 
Impairment loss on debentures [note 8]   2,637,000    -    - 
Depreciation   588,957    268,490    184,855 
Net finance income (expense) [note 22]   (1,604,536)   223,660    2,256,392 
Other income   (117,470)   (143,922)   (153,749)
    22,694,487    16,139,007    16,612,499 
Loss before tax   (21,158,061)   (12,853,442)   (15,008,317)
Income taxes [note 23]               
Current tax expense (recovery)   (70,607)   182,854    131,403 
Deferred tax expense (recovery)   (210,268)   75,489    (25,813)
    (280,875)   258,343    105,590 
Net loss for the period   (20,877,186)   (13,111,785)   (15,113,907)
                
Items of comprehensive income that will be subsequently reclassified to earnings:               
Foreign currency translation differences for foreign operations, net of tax   334,957    309,105    388,566 
Other comprehensive income, net of tax   334,957    309,105    388,566 
Total comprehensive loss for the year, net of tax   (20,542,229)   (12,802,680)   (14,725,341)
                
Weighted average shares outstanding   9,268,709    8,318,121    7,412,899 
Basic and diluted loss per share   (2.25)   (1.58)   (2.04)

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Consolidated statements of cash flows

 

[Going concern uncertainty – see note 2]

 

Year ended August 31,

 

    2023     2022     2021  
    $     $     $  
Operating activities                        
Net loss     (20,877,186 )     (13,111,785 )     (15,113,907 )
Depreciation     1,060,897       955,513       417,050  
Accretion on long-term debt and lease liability     166,719       157,270       70,379  
Share-based compensation – options     1,136,182       2,699,481       7,121,444  
Shares issued for services     1,670,415       596,608       109,069  
Net loss on debentures     2,435,000       330,000       550,000  
Gain on disposal of property and equipment     173,375       -       -  
Interest income received     -       85,000       -  
Income tax expense     (280,875 )     258,343       105,590  
Income tax received     -       -       13,415  
Income tax paid     (14,040 )     (373,196 )     -  
Gain on derivative liabilities     (1,770,689 )     -       -  
Gain on lease termination     (50,329 )     (5,652 )     (7,230 )
Effect of exchange rate fluctuation     49,670       17,398       (6,542 )
      (16,300,861 )     (8,391,020 )     (6,740,732 )
Net change in non-cash working capital items                        
Trade and other receivables     (78,288 )     (152,808 )     (232,715 )
Provision for onerous contracts     91,667       -       -  
Inventories     (351,778 )     (117,692 )     (1,471,693 )
Grants and investment tax credits receivable     681,663       (573,361 )     293,937  
Other financial assets     4,121       (85,597 )     (25,595 )
Prepaid expenses     498,710       (1,927,459 )     (552,196 )
Trade and other payables     724,569       182,277       96,615  
Contract liabilities     786,413       130,605       396,097  
Other financial liabilities     (64,139 )     (61,764 )     (15,156 )
Cash used in operating activities     (14,007,923 )     (10,996,819 )     (8,251,438 )
                         
Investing activities                        
Subscription to debentures [note 8]     -       -       (3,400,000 )
Business acquisition, net of cash acquired [note 5]     -       -       (5,029,416 )
Additions to property and equipment     (938,802 )     (1,175,931 )     (544,354 )
Proceeds from the disposal of property and equipment     401,782       243,630       34,101  
Additions to intangible assets     -       (32,202 )     (528,726 )
Cash used in investing activities     (537,020 )     (964,503 )     (9,468,395 )
                         
Financing activities                        
Credit facility     155,000       -       (170,000 )
Addition in long-term debts     258,000       282,424       -  
Repayment of long-term debt     (207,607 )     (135,230 )     (419,090 )
Advances from related parties     -       176,771       -  
Initial public offering, net of transaction costs paid     -       -       33,430,239  
Issuance of shares and warrants, net of transaction costs paid     12,437,523       -       2,025,000  
Shares issued upon options conversion     163,461       10,001       -  
Repayment of lease liabilities     (726,893 )     (695,749 )     (295,316 )
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities     12,079,484       (361,783 )     34,570,833  

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

 

Consolidated statements of cash flows (cont’d )

 

August 31, 2023

  

[Going concern uncertainty – see note 2]

 

Year ended August 31,

 

    2023    2022    2021 
    $    $    $ 
Net (decrease) increase in cash during the year   (2,465,459)   (12,323,105)   16,851,000 
Cash, beginning of year   5,824,716    18,147,821    1,296,821 
Cash, end of year   3,359,257    5,824,716    18,147,821 

 

See accompanying notes

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

 

August 31, 2023 

 

1.Incorporation and nature of business

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. [the “Company”] was incorporated on August 29, 2012 and its principal business is to manufacture and sell or rent electric boats. The Voting Common Shares of the Company are listed under the trading symbol “VMAR” on Nasdaq.

 

The Company is incorporated in Canada and its head office and registered office is located at 730 Curé-Boivin boulevard, Boisbriand, Quebec, J7G 2A7.

 

Business seasonality

 

The Company’s operating results generally vary from quarter to quarter as a result of changes in general economic conditions and seasonal fluctuations, among other things, in each of its reportable segments. This means the Company’s results in one quarter are not necessarily indicative of how the Company will perform in a future quarter.

 

Sale of electric boats

 

The sale of electric boats segment has a seasonal aspect to its operations. Most customers purchase their electric boats from the Company with the intention of utilizing them during the summer period which typically runs from early June to late August and corresponds to the Company’s fourth quarter of a financial year. As such, the revenues in this operating segment fluctuate based on the level of boat deliveries, with a high and a low in the fourth quarter and the first quarter, respectively.

 

Rental of electric boats

 

Revenue generated by the rental of electric boats segment also has a seasonal aspect to its operations. Boat rental as an activity is highly sought by customers when the weather is milder, which is typically the case during the period from May to August. A colder-than-expected or rainier summer in any given year could have an impact on the segment’s revenues and hence on its profitability. Revenue from the boat club memberships is not impacted by seasonality as the memberships are typically on an annual basis.

 

2.Basis of preparation and going concern uncertainty

 

Compliance with IFRS

 

These consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards [“IFRS”] as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board [“IASB”] and interpretations issued by the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee [“IFRIC”] in effect on August 31, 2023.

 

The consolidated financial statements were authorized for issue by the Board of Directors on November 27, 2023.

 

Going concern uncertainty

 

As of August 31, 2023, the Company has cash of $3,359,257 and working capital of $3,676,936. The Company has incurred recurring losses, has not yet achieved profitable operations and has a deficit of $51,548,737 since its inception. The cash flows from operations were negative for the three years ended August 31, 2023. Additional financing will be needed by the Company to fund its operations and to commercialize the E-Motion powertrain business. These matters, when considered in aggregate, indicate the existence of a material uncertainty that raises substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for at least 12 months from the issuance of these consolidated financial statements. In view of these matters, continuation as a going concern is dependent upon the continued operations of the Company which will be determined by the Company’s ability to meet its financial requirements, including its ability to raise additional capital.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. 

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

 

August 31, 2023 

 

The Company is evaluating several different strategies and is actively pursuing actions that are expected to increase its liquidity position, including, but not limited to, pursuing additional cost savings initiatives and seeking additional financing from both the public and private markets through the issuance of equity securities. For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company was able to raise net proceeds from issuance of shares of $12,437,523. However, the Company's management cannot provide assurances that the Company will be successful in accomplishing any of its proposed financing plans. Management also cannot provide any assurance as to unforeseen circumstances that could occur within the next 12 months which could increase the Company’s need to raise additional capital on an immediate basis, which additional capital may not be available to the Company.

 

The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis, which assumes the Company will continue its operations for the foreseeable future and will be able to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities and commitments in the normal course of business. These consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended August 31, 2023 do not include any adjustments to the carrying amounts and classification of assets, liabilities and reported expenses that may otherwise be required if the going concern basis was not appropriate. Such adjustments could be material.

 

Basis of consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company, and the subsidiaries that it controls. Control exists when the Company has the power over the subsidiary, when it is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the subsidiary and when it has the ability to use its power to affect its returns. Subsidiaries that the Company controls are consolidated from the effective date of acquisition up to the effective date of disposal or loss of control.

 

Details of the Company’s significant subsidiaries at the end of the reporting period are set out below.

 

Name of subsidiary  Principal activity  Country of
incorporation
and operation
  Proportion of
ownership held
by the Company
 
7858078 Canada Inc.  Owns an electric boat rental center  Canada   100%
EB Rental Ltd.  Operates an electric boat rental center  United States   100%
EB Rental Ventura Corp.  Operates an electric boat rental center  United States   100%
Vision Marine Technologies Corp.  Operates an electric boat service center  United States   100%

 

Use of estimates and judgments

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Although these estimates are based on management’s best knowledge of the amount, event or actions, actual results ultimately may differ from those estimates. Areas where estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in note 4.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc. 

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

3.Significant accounting policies

 

Business combination Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, cash held on trust, deposits held at call with banks, other short term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less.

 

Trade and other receivables

 

Trade receivables are initially recognized at fair value and subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any allowance for expected credit losses. Trade receivables are generally due for settlement within 30 days.

 

The Company has applied the simplified approach to measuring expected credit losses, which uses a lifetime expected loss allowance. To measure the expected credit loss, trade receivables have been grouped based on days overdue.

 

Other receivables are recognized at amortized cost, less any allowance for expected credit loss.

 

Inventories

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Raw materials are valued on a first-in first-out basis. Cost of work in progress and finished goods comprises direct materials and delivery costs, direct labour, import duties and other taxes, and appropriate proportion of variable and fixed overhead expenditure based on normal operating capacity. Cost of purchased inventory is determined after deducting rebates and discounts received or receivable.

 

Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

 

Grants and investment tax credits

 

Government grants are recognized where there is reasonable assurance that the grant will be received, and all attached conditions will be complied with. When the grant relates to an expense item, it is recognized as income on a systematic basis over the periods that the related costs, for which it is intended to compensate, are expensed. Where retention of a government grant is dependent on the Company satisfying certain criteria, it is initially recognized as deferred income. When the criteria for retention have been satisfied, the deferred income balance is released to the statement of consolidated comprehensive loss or netted against the asset purchased.

 

Leases

 

Right-of-use assets

 

The Company recognizes right-of-use assets at the commencement date of the lease [i.e., the date the underlying asset is available for use]. Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of right-of-use assets includes the amount of lease liabilities recognized, initial direct costs incurred, and lease payments made at or before the commencement date less any lease incentives received. Unless the Company is reasonably certain to obtain ownership of the leased asset at the end of the lease term, the recognized right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over the shorter of its estimated useful life and the lease term ranging from two to six years. Right-of-use assets are subject to impairment.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Lease liabilities

 

At the commencement date of the lease, the Company recognizes lease liabilities measured at the present value of lease payments to be made over the lease term. The lease payments include fixed payments [including in- substance fixed payments] less any lease incentives receivable and variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate. The lease payments also include the exercise price of a purchase option reasonably certain to be exercised by the Company and payments of penalties for terminating a lease, if the lease term reflects the Company exercising the option to terminate. The variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or a rate are recognized as expense in the period on which the event or condition that triggers the payment occurs. In calculating the present value of lease payments, the Company uses the incremental borrowing rate at the lease commencement date if the interest rate implicit in the lease is not readily determinable. After the commencement date, the amount of lease liabilities is increased to reflect the accretion of interest and reduced for the lease payments made. Interest accretion is recorded as interest expense in finance costs. In addition, the carrying amount of lease liabilities is remeasured if there is a modification, a change in the lease term, a change in the in- substance fixed lease payments or a change in the assessment to purchase the underlying asset.

 

Short-term leases and leases of low-value assets

 

The Company applies the short-term lease recognition exemption to its short-term leases that have a lease term of 12 months or less from the commencement date and do not contain a purchase option. It also applies the lease of low-value assets recognition exemption to leases of office equipment that are considered of low value [i.e., below $5,000]. Lease payments on short-term leases and leases of low-value assets are recognized as expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. For the year-ended August 31, 2023, the expense for leases of low- value assets is insignificant.

 

Property and equipment

 

Property and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Cost includes expenditures that are directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset.

 

Depreciation is recorded to recognize the cost of assets over their useful lives. The estimated useful lives and depreciation methods are reviewed at the end of each reporting period, with the effect of any changes in estimate accounted for on a prospective basis.

 

Asset type  Methods  Rates 
Computer equipment  Declining balance method   55% 
Machinery and equipment  Declining balance method   20% 
Rolling stock  Declining balance method   30% 
Leasehold improvements  Straight-line method   Over the term of the lease 
Boat rental fleet  Straight-line method   15 years 
Moulds  Straight-line method   25 years 

 

Any item of property and equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the continued use of the asset. Any gain or loss arising on the disposal or retirement of an asset is determined as the difference between the sales and proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognized in profit or loss.

 

Repairs and maintenance costs that do not improve or extend productive life are recognized in profit or loss in the period in which the costs are incurred.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Intangible assets and goodwill

 

Expenditure on research activities is recognized in net earnings as incurred.

 

Development expenditure is capitalized only if the expenditure can be measured reliably, the product or process is technically and commercially feasible, future economic benefits are probable and the Company intends to and has sufficient resources to complete development and to use or sell the asset. Otherwise, it is recognized in net earnings as incurred. The Company has not capitalized any development costs. When awarded with government grants and income tax credits, the Company recognizes the income either in net loss, netted with the related expenses, or as a reduction of the cost, when related with capitalized development expenditure.

 

Goodwill arising from business combinations is initially recognized when the fair value of the separately identifiable assets the Company acquired and liabilities the Company assumed is lower than the consideration paid [including the recognized amount of the non-controlling interest, if any]. If the fair value of the consideration transferred is lower than that of the separately identified assets and liabilities, the Company immediately recognizes the difference as a gain in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.

 

Other intangible assets, including intellectual property, software, trade name, backlog and website that have finite useful lives are measured at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses.

 

Amortization is calculated over the cost of the asset less its residual value. Amortization is recognized in net earnings on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets from the date that they are available for use. The estimated useful lives are as follows:

 

Asset type  Methods   Rates 
Intellectual property  Straight-line method   10 years 
Software  Straight-line method   7 years 
Trade name  Straight-line method   5 years 
Backlog  Straight-line method   3 years 
Website  Straight-line method   5 years 

 

Amortization methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at each reporting date and adjusted if appropriate.

 

Impairment of non-financial assets

 

Non-financial assets other than goodwill

 

At the end of each reporting period, the Company reviews the carrying amounts of its non-financial assets, other than goodwill, to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated. Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, assets are grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or groups of assets [the “cash- generating unit”, or “CGU”].

 

Recoverable amount is the greater of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset or CGU. If the recoverable amount of an asset or CGU is lower than its carrying amount, the carrying amount is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment loss is recognized immediately in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset or CGU is increased to the revised recoverable amount, to the extent that the carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized immediately in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss.

 

Goodwill

 

After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. For purposes of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Company’s CGU [or groups of CGUs] that is expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. A CGU to which goodwill has been allocated is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when there is indication that the CGU may be impaired. If the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, the impairment loss is allocated first to reduce the goodwill allocated to the CGU and then, to reduce the carrying amounts of the other assets in the CGU on a pro-rata basis. Any impairment loss is recognized in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss. An impairment loss recognized for goodwill is not reversed in subsequent periods.

 

Trade and other payables

 

These amounts represent liabilities for goods and services provided to the entity prior to the end of the financial year and which are unpaid. Due to their short-term nature, they are measured at amortized cost and are not discounted. The amounts are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of recognition.

 

Provisions

 

Provisions are recognized when the Company has a present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable the Company will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. The amount recognized as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the reporting date, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. If the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate specific to the liability. The increase in the provision resulting from the passage of time is recognized as a finance cost.

 

Onerous contracts

 

An onerous contract is a contract under which the unavoidable costs (i.e., the costs that the Company cannot avoid because it has the contract) of meeting the obligations under the contract exceed the economic benefits expected to be received under it. The unavoidable costs under a contract reflect the least net cost of exiting from the contract, which is the lower of the cost of fulfilling it and any compensation or penalties arising from failure to fulfil it. The cost of fulfilling a contract comprises the costs that relate directly to the contract (i.e., both incremental costs and an allocation of costs directly related to contract activities).

 

When the Company has a contract that is onerous, the present obligation under the contract is recognized and measured as a provision. However, before a separate provision for an onerous contract is established, the Company recognizes any impairment loss that has occurred on assets used in fulfilling the contract.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Fair value measurement

 

When an asset or liability, financial or non-financial, is measured at fair value for recognition or disclosure purposes, the fair value is based on the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date; and assumes that the transaction will take place either: in the principal market; or in the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market.

 

Fair value is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming they act in their economic best interests. For non-financial assets, the fair value measurement is based on its highest and best use. Valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, are used, maximizing the use of relevant observable inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs.

 

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value are classified into three levels, using a fair value hierarchy that reflects the significance of the inputs used in making the measurements. Classifications are reviewed at each reporting date and transfers between levels are determined based on a reassessment of the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Financial instruments

 

Classification and measurement of financial instruments

 

The Company measures its financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value on initial recognition, which is typically the transaction price unless a financial instrument contains a significant financing component. Subsequent measurement is dependent on the financial instrument’s classification which in the case of financial assets, is determined by the context of the Company’s business model and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset. Financial assets are classified into two categories: [1] measured at amortized cost and [2] fair value through profit and loss [“FVTPL”]. Financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost at the effective interest rate, other than financial liabilities that are measured at FVTPL or designated as FVTPL where any change in fair value resulting from an entity’s own credit risk is recorded as other comprehensive income [“OCI”].

 

The Company assesses the classification of warrants to purchase common shares of the Company, whether the warrants issued meet the criteria of an equity instrument (i.e. the warrants would be settled by the issuance of fixed number of common shares of the Company at a fixed exercise price) or a financial liability. Since the exercise price of these warrants is denominated in U.S. dollars, while the functional currency of the Company is Canadian dollar, the value of the proceeds on exercise of the warrants is not fixed and will vary based on the foreign exchange rate movements. As such, the Company classified the warrants, other than warrants issued as compensation for goods and services, as derivative liabilities, measured at fair value at initial recognition and at each reporting period. Any changes in fair value are recorded as gain or loss in the consolidated statement of comprehensive loss. Refer to note 19 and 25 for details on the warrants issued and outstanding for the year ended August 31, 2023, the derivative liabilities recorded and the assumptions used to determine the fair value.

 

Amortized cost

 

The Company classifies trade and other receivables, other financial assets, trade and other payables, other financial liabilities, long-term debt and advances to/from related parties as financial instruments measured at amortized cost. The contractual cash flows received from the financial assets are solely payments of principal and interest and are held within a business model whose objective is to collect the contractual cash flows.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Fair value through profit and loss

 

The Company classifies debentures as financial instruments measured at fair value through profit and loss since the contractual cash flows received from the financial asset are not solely payments of principal and interest.

 

Impairment of financial assets

 

The Company recognizes a loss allowance for expected credit losses on financial assets measured at amortized cost. The measurement of the loss allowance depends upon the Company’s assessment at the end of each reporting period as to whether the financial instrument’s credit risk has increased significantly since initial recognition, based on reasonable and supportable information that is available, without undue cost or effort to obtain. Where there has not been a significant increase in exposure to credit risk, a 12-month expected credit loss allowance is estimated. The amount of expected credit loss recognized is measured on the basis of the probability weighted present value of anticipated cash shortfalls over the life of the instrument discounted at the original effective interest rate. Impairment provisions for current and non-current trade receivables are recognized based on the simplified approach within IFRS 9 using a provision matrix in the determination of the lifetime expected credit losses.

 

Equity instruments

 

Financial instruments issued by the Company are classified as equity only to the extent that they do not meet the definition of a financial liability or financial asset. An equity instrument is any contract that evidences a residual interest in the assets of an entity after deducting all of its liabilities. Equity instruments issued by the Company are recorded at the proceeds received, net of direct issuance costs.

 

The Company’s shares are classified as equity instruments.

 

Revenue recognition

 

Revenue is recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Company is expected to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer. For each contract with a customer, the Company:

 

·identifies the contract with the customer;
·identifies the performance obligations in the contract;
·determines the transaction price which takes into account estimates of variable consideration and the time value of money;
·allocates the transaction price to separate performance obligations on the basis of relative stand-alone selling price of each distinct good or service to be delivered; and,
·recognizes revenue when or as each performance obligation is satisfied in a manner that depicts the transfer to the customer of the goods or services promised.

 

The Company enters into contracts with customers, as well as distributor agreements with specific distributors for the sale of boats.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Sale of boats

 

Revenue from the sale of boats, including incidental shipping fees, is recognized at the point in time when the customer obtains control of the goods, which is generally at the shipping point. In the context of its distributor agreements, control is passed at the shipping point to the distributor as the Company has no further performance obligations at that point. The Company concluded that it is the principal in its revenue arrangements, because it typically controls the boats before transferring them to the customer. The amount of consideration the Company receives, and the revenue recognized varies with volume rebate programs offered to distributors. When the Company offers retrospective volume rebates, it estimates the expected volume rebates based on an analysis of historical experience, to the extent that it is highly probable that a significant reversal will not occur. The Company adjusts its estimate of revenue related to volume rebates at the earlier of when the most likely amount of consideration expected to be received changes or when the consideration becomes fixed.

 

The Company recognizes customer deposits on the sale of boats as contract liabilities.

 

Boat rental and boat club membership revenue

 

Revenue from boat rentals is recognized at a point in time when the services are completed given the short term rental period. Boat club membership revenue is recognized over time as the service is provided. These services are typically provided, and thus revenue is typically recognized, on a monthly basis.

 

The Company recognizes customer prepayments on boat rentals and boat club memberships as contract liabilities.

 

Sale of parts and boat maintenance

 

Revenue from the sale of parts and related maintenance services are recognized at the point in time when the customer obtains control of the parts and when services are completed.

 

Other

 

Other revenue is recognized when it is received or when the right to receive payment is established.

 

Contract liabilities

 

A contract liability is recognized if a payment is received, or a payment is due [whichever is earlier] from a customer before the Company transfers the related goods or services. Contract liabilities are recognized as revenue when the Company performs under the contract [i.e., transfers control of the related goods or services to the customer].

 

Share-based payments

 

The Company has a share option plan for key employees, consultants, advisors, officers and directors from which options to purchase common stock of the Company are issued. The Company also issues warrants to non- employees granting the right to purchase common stock of the Company at a determined exercise price. Share- based compensation costs are accounted for on a fair value basis, as measured at the grant date, using the Black- Scholes option pricing model taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the options were granted. An individual is classified as an employee when the individual is an employee for legal or tax purposes or provides services similar to those performed by an employee. In situations where options or warrants have been issued to non-employees and some or all of the services received by the Company can be specifically identified, the options or warrants are measured at the fair value of the services received. If the services cannot be specifically identified, the options or warrants are measured at the fair value of the options issued.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

All share-based remuneration is ultimately recognized as an expense in profit or loss with a corresponding credit to contributed surplus. If vesting periods or other vesting conditions apply, the expense is allocated over the vesting period, based on the best available estimate of the number of share options expected to vest. Any adjustment to cumulative share-based compensation resulting from a revision is recognized in the current period. The number of vested options ultimately exercised by holders does not impact the expense recorded in any period.

 

Foreign currency translation

 

The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, which is also the parent company’s functional currency. The functional currencies of 7858078 Canada Inc. and EB Rental Ltd. are the Canadian dollar and the US dollar, respectively. The Company and its subsidiaries each determine their functional currency based on the currency of the primary economic environment in which they operate. Transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of an entity are translated at the exchange rate in effect on the transaction date. The resulting exchange gains and losses are included in each entity’s net loss in the period in which they arise.

 

The Company’s foreign operations are translated to the Company’s presentation currency, for inclusion in the consolidated financial statements. Foreign-denominated monetary and non-monetary assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated at exchange rates in effect at the end of the reporting period and revenue and expenses are translated at exchange rates in effect at the transaction date. The resulting translation gains and losses are included in other comprehensive income with the cumulative gain or loss reported in accumulated other comprehensive income. On disposal of a foreign operation, the component of OCI relating to that particular foreign operation is reclassified to profit or loss.

 

The exchange rates for the currencies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements were as follows:

 

   Exchange rate as at  Average exchange rate for year ended
   August 31, 2023   August 31, 2022   August 31, 2023   August 31, 2022 
US dollar   1.3535    1.3076    1.3465    1.2717 

 

Taxes

 

Tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Tax is recognized in net loss except to the extent it relates to items recognized in other comprehensive income or directly in equity.

 

Current tax

 

Current tax expense is based on the results for the period as adjusted for items that are not taxable or not deductible. Current tax is calculated using tax rates and laws that were enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. Current income tax assets and liabilities are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Deferred tax

 

Deferred taxes are the taxes expected to be payable or recoverable on differences between the carrying amounts of assets in the statement of financial position and their corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognized for all taxable temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and their corresponding tax bases. Deferred tax assets are recognized to the extent that it is probable that taxable profits will be available against which deductible temporary differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilized. Such assets and liabilities are not recognized if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or from the initial recognition [other than in a business combination] of other assets in a transaction that affects neither the taxable profit nor the accounting profit.

 

The Company offsets deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities if and only if it has a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets and current tax liabilities and the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities which intend either to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis, or to realize the assets and settle the liabilities simultaneously, in each future period in which significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities or assets are expected to be settled or recovered.

 

Earnings per share

 

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to equity holders of the Company by the weighted average number of common stock outstanding during the year.

 

Diluted income per share is calculated by dividing the profit attributable to equity holders of the Company by the weighted average number of common stock outstanding, adjusted for the effects of all dilutive potential common stock. For the purpose of calculating diluted earnings per share, the Company assumes the exercise of dilutive options and warrants of the entity. The assumed proceeds from these instruments are regarded as having been received from the issue of common stock at the average market price of common shares during the period. The difference between the number of common shares issued and the number of common shares that would have been issued at the average market price of common shares during the period is treated as an issue of common shares for no consideration..

 

New and amended standards and interpretations

 

The Company applied certain amendments to the accounting standards, which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2023. The Company has not early adopted any other standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective.

 

Onerous Contracts – Costs of Fulfilling a Contract – Amendments to IAS 37

 

In May 2020, the IASB issued amendments to IAS 37 to specify which costs an entity needs to include when assessing whether a contract is onerous or loss-making. The amendments apply a “directly related cost approach”. The costs that relate directly to a contract to provide goods or services include both incremental costs and an allocation of costs directly related to contract activities. General and administrative costs do not relate directly to a contract and are excluded unless they are explicitly chargeable to the counterparty under the contract. The amendments were effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2022. The amendments did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Property, Plant and Equipment: Proceeds before Intended Use – Amendments to IAS 16 Property, plant and equipment

 

The amendment prohibits entities from deducting from the cost of an item of property, plant and equipment, any proceeds of the sale of items produced while bringing that asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Instead, an entity recognizes the proceeds from selling such items, and the costs of producing those items, in profit or loss.

 

The amendment is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2022 and must be applied retrospectively to items of property, plant and equipment made available for use on or after the beginning of the earliest period presented when the entity first applies the amendment. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Standards issued but yet not effective

 

The new and amended standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Company’s financial statements are disclosed below. The Company intends to adopt these new and amended standards and interpretations, if applicable, when they become effective.

 

Definition of Accounting Estimates - Amendments to IAS 8

 

The amendments to IAS 8 clarify the distinction between changes in accounting estimates, changes in accounting policies and the correction of errors. They also clarify how entities use measurement techniques and inputs to develop accounting estimates. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Disclosure of Accounting Policies - Amendments to IAS 1 and IFRS Practice Statement 2

 

The amendments to IAS 1 and IFRS Practice Statement 2 Making Materiality Judgements provide guidance and examples to help entities apply materiality judgements to accounting policy disclosures. The amendments aim to help entities provide accounting policy disclosures that are more useful by replacing the requirement for entities to disclose their ‘significant’ accounting policies with a requirement to disclose their ‘material’ accounting policies and adding guidance on how entities apply the concept of materiality in making decisions about accounting policy disclosures. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the disclosures in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction – Amendments to IAS 12

 

The amendments to IAS 12 Income Tax narrow the scope of the initial recognition exception, so that it no longer applies to transactions that give rise to equal taxable and deductible temporary differences such as leases and decommissioning liabilities. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

Amendments to IFRS 16: Lease Liability in a Sale and Leaseback

 

In September 2022, the IASB issued amendments to IFRS 16, Leases, to specify the requirements that a seller- lessee uses in measuring the lease liability arising in a sale and leaseback transaction, to ensure the seller-lessee does not recognize any amount of the gain or loss that relates to the right of use it retains. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024 and must applied retrospectively to sale and leaseback transactions entered into after the date of initial application of IFRS 16. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Amendments to IAS 1: Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current

 

In January 2020 and October 2022, the IASB issued amendments to paragraphs 69 to 76 of IAS 1 to specify the requirements for classifying liabilities as current or non-current. The amendments clarify:

 

·What is meant by a right to defer settlement

 

·That a right to defer must exist at the end of the reporting period

 

·That classification is unaffected by the likelihood that an entity will exercise its deferral right

 

·That only if an embedded derivative in a convertible liability is itself an equity instrument would the terms of a liability not impact its classification

 

In addition, a requirement has been introduced to require disclosure when a liability arising from a loan agreement is classified as non-current and the entity’s right to defer settlement is contingent on compliance

 

with future covenants within twelve months. The amendments are effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024 and must be applied retrospectively. The amendments are not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

4.Significant accounting estimates and assumptions

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates and judgments are continuously evaluated and are based on management’s experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual outcomes can differ from these estimates.

 

Going concern uncertainty

 

In assessing whether the going concern assumption is appropriate and whether there are material uncertainties that raise substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, management must estimate future cash flows for a period of at least twelve months following the end of the reporting period by considering relevant available information about the future. In addition, management must make assumptions about what actions it will take to increase the Company’s liquidity position. Given that it is difficult to adequately predict future cash flows and the Company’s ability to raise additional financing, management has concluded that there are material uncertainties related to events or conditions that raise substantial doubt upon the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for at least the next twelve months.

 

Impairment of non-financial assets

 

Impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or cash generating unit exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. The Company concluded the fair value less costs of disposal will yield a higher recoverable amount, which is based on a discounted cash flow (“DCF”) model. The fair value measurement is categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The cash flows are derived from cash flow projections over a 5-year period, including future investments and expansion activities that will enhance the performance of the assets of the CGU.

 

As at August 31, 2023, all of the Company’s goodwill is allocated to the boat rental operation CGU, which represents the lowest level within the Company at which the goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes. For the year ended August 31, 2023, there was no impairment of goodwill.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

The recoverable amount is sensitive to the discount rate used for the DCF model, as well as the expected future cash-inflows, gross profit and the growth rate used for extrapolation purposes. The post-tax discount rate of 28% used in the DCF is based on a weighted average cost of capital calculated using observable market-based inputs or a benchmark of a sample of representative publicly traded companies. The long-term growth rate of 2% used for extrapolation purposes is based on published research growth rates. Any reasonable negative change in the key assumptions used could cause the carrying value of this CGU to exceed its recoverable amount.

 

Financial instruments measured at fair value

 

In measuring financial instruments at fair value, the Company makes estimates and assumptions, including estimates and assumptions about interest rates, credit spreads and other market conditions. Financial instruments measured at fair value include derivative liabilities [note 19] and investment in Limestone [note 8].

 

Provision for impairment of inventories

 

The provision for impairment of inventories assessment requires a degree of estimation and judgment. The level of the provision is assessed by taking into account the recent sales experience, the ageing of inventories and other factors that affect inventory obsolescence.

 

Income tax

 

Provisions for taxes are made using the best estimate of the amount expected to be paid based on a qualitative assessment of all relevant factors. The Company reviews the adequacy of these provisions at the end of the reporting period. However, it is possible that at some future date an additional liability could result from audits by taxing authorities. Where the final outcome of these tax-related matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will affect the tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

 

The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilized. Unrecognized deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognized to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.

 

In assessing the recoverability of deferred tax assets, the Company relies on the same forecast assumptions used elsewhere in the financial statements and in other management reports, which, among other things, reflect the potential impact of climate-related development on the business.

 

Share-based payments

 

The Company measures the cost of equity-settled transactions with employees by reference to the fair value of the equity instrument at the date at which they are granted. The fair value is determined by using the Black-Scholes model taking into account the terms and conditions upon which the instruments were granted. Judgment is exercised in determining the expected life and historical volatility. The accounting estimates and assumptions relating to equity-settled share-based payments would have no impact on the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities but may impact profit or loss and equity.

 

Lease term

 

The lease term is a significant component in the measurement of both the right-of-use asset and lease liability. Judgment is exercised in determining whether there is reasonable certainty that an option to extend the lease will be exercised, when ascertaining the periods to be included in the lease term. In determining the lease term, all facts and circumstances that create an economical incentive to exercise an extension option are considered at the lease commencement date. The Company reassesses whether it is reasonably certain to exercise an extension option if there is a significant event or significant change in circumstances.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Incremental borrowing rate

 

Where the interest rate implicit in the lease cannot be readily determined, an incremental borrowing rate is estimated to discount future lease payments to measure the present value of the lease liability at the lease commencement date. Such a rate is based on what the Company estimates it would have to pay a third party to borrow the funds necessary to obtain an asset of a similar value to the right-of-use asset, with similar terms, security and economic environment.

 

5.Goodwill

 

On June 3, 2021, the Company completed the acquisition of EB Rental Ltd. [“EBR”] by acquiring all the issued and outstanding shares of 7858078 Canada Inc. EBR operates an electric boat rental operation located in Newport beach, California, with a fleet of over 20 ships. All boats operated by EBR are supplied by the Company, which offers the Company the ability to showcase its products and provide brand awareness. Before the acquisition, the Company and EBR were related through common ownership.

 

EBR was acquired for cash consideration of U.S.$4,582,367 ($5,546,039), financed entirely by the Company’s available cash on hand, and equity consideration of $3,474,232 representing 284,495 shares at U.S.$10.09 [approximately $12.21] per share.

 

The balance of goodwill related to the acquisition of EBR is at $9,680,941 as at August 31, 2023 [2022 – $9,352,640], with the change since acquisition date due to foreign exchange translation.

 

6. Trade and other receivables

 

    2023   2022
    $    $ 
Trade receivables   59,364    108,716 
Sales taxes receivable   159,114    194,523 
Other receivables   332,358    169,309 
   550,836   472,548 

 

Trade receivable disclosed above include amounts that are past due at the end of the reporting period for which the Company has not recognized an allowance for expected credit losses because there has not been a significant change in credit quality and the amounts are still considered recoverable.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

As at August 31, 2023, trade receivables of $59,364 [2022 – $108,706] were past due but not impaired. They relate to customers with no default history. The aging analysis of these receivables is as follows:

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
0 – 30   13,986    77,625 
31 – 60   -    - 
61 – 90   -    14,212 
91 and over   45,378    16,879 
   59,364   108,716 

 

There were no movements in the allowance for expected credit losses for years ended August 31, 2023 and August 31, 2022.

 

7. Inventories

 

    2023   2022
    $    $ 
 Raw materials   1,553,501    1,709,368 
Work-in-process   369,753    75,170 
Finished goods   522,300    309,238 
   2,445,554   2,093,776 

 

For the year ended August 31, 2023, inventories recognized as an expense amounted to $4,023,409 [2022 – $4,065,381; 2021 – $1,909,606].

 

For the year ended August 31, 2023, cost of sales includes depreciation of $471,940 [2022 – $687,023; 2021 - $232,195].

 

8. Investment in Limestone

 

On May 14, 2021, the Company subscribed for and purchased 3,400 senior unsecured subordinated convertible debentures of The Limestone Boat Company Limited [“Limestone”], a publicly traded company listed under the trading symbol "BOAT" on the TSX Venture Exchange [the "Debentures"], for an aggregate amount of $3,400,000.

 

The Debentures bear interest at a rate of 10% per annum, payable annually in arrears, and have a 36-month term [the “Term”]. The Debentures are convertible at any time at the option of the Company into common shares of Limestone [“Common Shares”] at a conversion price of $0.36 per Common Share [the “Conversion Price”]. If at any time following 120 days from the date of issuance of the Debentures [the “Closing Date“] and prior to the date that is 30 days prior to the end of the Term, the volume weighted average closing price of the Common Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange, or such other exchange on which the Common Shares may be listed, is equal to or higher than $0.50 per Common Share for 20 consecutive trading days, Limestone may notify the Company that the Debentures will be automatically converted into Common Shares at the Conversion Price 30 days following the date of such notice.

 

The Debentures are carried at fair value through profit and loss and are considered as Level 2 financial instruments in the fair value hierarchy.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

On January 20, 2023, Limestone announced that Limestone’s U.S. subsidiaries filed for voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. As a result, the Company recorded an impairment on the entire value of the Debentures at the amount $2,637,000 for the year ended August 31, 2023 [2022 – nil, 2021 - nil].

 

For the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company recorded a loss of $88,866 [2022 - $670,000; 2021 – $550,000] for the change in fair value of the Debentures and interest income of $113,334 [2022 - $340,000; 2021 - $85,000] in net loss as a net financial income (expense).

 

On July 18, 2023, the Company agreed with Limestone to convert the Debentures into common shares of Limestone at a conversion price of $0.071, which was approved by the shareholders of Limestone and awaiting the issuance of the Company’s shareholder certificate. The Company maintained the fair value of its investment in Limestone at nil as at August 31, 2023.

 

9. Right-of-use assets

 

    

Premises

    Computer equipment    

Rolling stock

    Boat rental fleet    

Total

 
    $    $    $    $    $ 
Cost                         
Balance at August 31, 2021   2,746,118    3,646    202,536    326,868    3,279,168 
Additions   93,565    -    141,043    -    234,608 
Disposals   -    -    (255,953)   (115,409)   (371,362)
Currency translation   40,356    -    394    -    40,750 
Balance at August 31, 2022   2,880,039    3,646    88,020    211,459    3,183,164 
Additions   921,498--              -    921,498 
Disposals   -   -    (46,200)   (170,298)   (216,498)
Transferred to Property and equipment   -    (3,646)   -    (41,161)   (44,807)
Currency translation   38,255    -    2,099    -    40,354 
Balance at August 31, 2023   3,839,792    -    43,919    -    3,883,711 
Accumulated                         
depreciation                         
Balance at August 31, 2021   334,357    576    14,949    24,087    373,969 
Depreciation   488,050    2,302    71,488    89,617    651,457 
Disposal   -    -    (66,122)   (37,240)   (103,362)
Balance at August 31, 2022   822,407    2,878    20,315    76,464    922,064 
Depreciation   615,937    768    23,934    21,442    662,081 
Disposal   -    (3,646)   (13,475)   (97,906)   (115,027)
Balance at August 31, 2023   1,438,344    -    30,774    -    1,469,118 
Net carrying amount                         
As at August 31, 2022   2,057,632    768    67,705    134,995    2,261,100 
As at August 31, 2023   2,401,448    -    13,145    -    2,414,593 

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company exercised a purchase option and paid in full a lease liability related to a computer and boat rental fleet that was previously included in the right-of-use assets. As a result, the Company transferred the assets to property and equipment assets at its net book value of $44,807 [note 11].

 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

10. Property and equipment

 

   Machinery                         
   and   Rolling   Computer       Leasehold   Boat     
   equipment   stock   equipment   Moulds   improvements     rental fleet   Total 
   $   $   $   $   $   $   $ 
Cost                                   
Balance at August 31, 2021   302,938    32,175    14,647    691,005    131,233    513,317    1,685,315 
Additions   30,146    197,739    11,284    220,919    133,123    582,720    1,175,931 
Disposals   -    (111,215)   (4,899)   -    -    (154,714)   (270,828)
Currency translation   -    (35)   -    -    -    30,154    30,119 
Balance at August 31, 2022   333,084    118,664    21,032    911,924    264,356    971,477    2,620,537 
Additions   62,409    69,029    565    30,501    97,699    678,599    938,802 
Transferred from Right-of-use
assets
   -    -    3,646    -    -    41,161    44,807 
Disposals   -    (136,072)   -    -    -    (499,770)   (635,842)
Currency translation   -    (2,347)   -    -    -    (70,115)   (72,462)
Balance at August 31, 2023   395,493    49,274    25,243    942,425    362,055    1,121,352    2,895,842 
 Accumulated depreciation                                   
Balance at August 31, 2021   167,604    24,362    8,398    50,420    11,579    8,443    270,806 
Depreciation   30,200    23,938    5,079    22,608    32,926    43,196    157,947 
Disposal   -    (18,301)   (674)   -    -    (8,223)   (27,198)
Balance at August 31, 2022   197,804    29,999    12,803    73,028    44,505    43,416    401,555 
Depreciation   31,495    25,875    4,485    37,696    69,332    72,163    241,046 
Disposal   -    (21,864)   -    -    -    (38,821)   (60,685)
Balance at August 31, 2023   229,299    34,010    17,288    110,724    113,837    76,758    581,916 
 Net carrying amount                                   
As at August 31, 2022   135,280    88,665    8,229    838,896    219,851    928,061    2,218,982 
As at August 31, 2023   166,194    15,264    7,955    831,701    248,218    1,044,594    2,313,926 

 

As at August 31, 2023, moulds of $377,253 [August 31, 2022 – $346,752] are not depreciated because they are not ready for use.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

11. Intangible assets

 

   Intellectual       Trade             
   property   Software   name   Backlog   Website   Total 
   $   $   $   $   $   $ 
Cost                              
Balance at August 31, 2021   1,035,070    73,573    93,856    79,220    18,771    1,300,490 
Additions   -    28,202    4,000    -    -    32,202 
Currency translation   -    -    438    330    87    855 
Balance at August 31, 2022   1,035,070    101,775    98,294    79,550    18,858    1,333,547 
Additions                              
Currency translation   -    -    6,057    4,556    1,211    11,824 
Balance at August 31, 2023   1,035,070    101,775    104,351    84,106    20,069    1,345,371 
                               
Accumulated depreciation                              
Balance at August 31, 2021   55,581    7,107    4,633    6,520    927    74,768 
Depreciation   103,508    17,593    9,806    13,310    1,892    146,109 
Balance at August 31, 2022   159,089    24,700    14,439    19,830    2,819    220,877 
Depreciation   103,508    12,920    20,426    16,911    4,005    157,770 
Balance at August 31, 2023   262,597    37,620    34,865    36,741    6,824    378,647 
Net carrying amount                              
As at August 31, 2022   875,981    77,075    83,855    59,720    16,039    1,112,670 
As at August 31, 2023   772,473    64,155    69,486    47,365    13,245    966,724 

 

On February 16, 2021, the Company acquired intellectual property in exchange for cash consideration of EUR 300,000 ($461,134) and the issuance of 30,000 shares of the Company [note 18] at a price of U.S.$15.07 [approximately $19.13] for total consideration of $1,035,070.

 

12. Credit facility

 

The Company has an authorized line of credit of $250,000, renewable annually, bearing interest at prime rate plus 1%, secured by a first ranking movable hypothec of $750,000 on all present and future accounts receivable and inventory. As at August 31, 2023, the Company has drawn an amount of 155,000 [2022 – Nil] on the line of credit.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

13. Trade and other payables

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
 Trade payables   1,107,310    737,946 
Sales taxes payable   62,398    21,547 
Government remittances   -    9,450 
Salaries, vacation and other employee benefits payables   585,192    261,388 
    1,754,900    1,030,331 

 

14. Contract liabilities 

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
Opening balance   1,029,318    898,713 
Payments received in advance   3,330,235    2,502,080 
Boat sale deposits   151,572    87,609 
Payments reimbursed   (8,131)   (2,615)
Transferred to revenues   (2,718,943)   (2,475,307)
Currency translation   31,680    18,838 
Closing balance   1,815,731    1,029,318 

 

15. Lease liabilities

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
Opening balance   2,415,549    2,966,816 
Additions   921,498    234,608 
Repayment   (726,893)   (695,749)
Interest on lease liability   139,132    141,994 
Lease termination   (151,800)   (273,652)
Currency translation   44,308    41,532 
Closing balance   2,641,794    2,415,549 
           
Current   647,638    561,168 
Non-current   1,994,156    1,854,381 
    2,641,794    2,415,549 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Future undiscounted lease payments as at August 31, 2023 are as follows:

 

   $ 
Less than one year   775,991 
One to five years   2,221,910 
    2,997,901 

 

Included in rent expense is $127,511 of short-term lease expense [2022 – $58,663, 2021 - $50,186]. The lease liabilities have a weighted average interest rate of 5.79% [2022 – 5.4%, 2021 – 5.2%].

 

16. Long-term debt 

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
The government assistance loan is non-interest bearing until December 31, 2022 at which time the loan bears interest at 5% per annum. The loan must be repaid by December 31, 2025.   40,000    39,342 
Term loans, bearing interest at rates varying between 9.44% and 10.71%, repayable in monthly instalments of $23,337, ending January 2025.   265,329    188,007 
    305,329    227,349 
Current portion of long-term debt   271,546    72,090 
    33,783    155,259 

 

17. Related party transactions

 

Companies related through common ownership

 

EB Rental Ltd. [prior to June 3, 2021] [note 5]

7858078 Canada Inc. [prior to June 3, 2021]

[note 5] Montana Strategies Inc.  

 

Key management personnel of the Company have control over the following entities

 

California Electric Boat Company Inc.

9335-1427 Quebec Inc. 

Hurricane Corporate Services Ltd. 

Mac Engineering, SASU – Since February 16, 2021

 

Ultimate founder shareholders and their individually controlled entities

 

Alexandre Mongeon

Patrick Bobby

Robert Ghetti 

Immobilier R. Ghetti Inc. 

Société de Placement Robert Ghetti Inc.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s related party transactions for the year:

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

  

2021

$

 
Revenues               
Sales of boats               
EB Rental Ltd. [prior to June 3, 2021]   -    -    84,149 
Patrick Bobby   -    -    - 
Sale of parts and boat maintenance               
EB Rental Ltd. [prior to June 3, 2021]   -    -    40,310 
                
Expenses               
Cost of sales               
EB Rental Ltd. [prior to June 3, 2021]   -    -    11,444 
                
Research and Development               
9335-1427 Quebec Inc.   -    -    75,020 
Mac Engineering, SASU   545,892    666,178    176,500 
                
Travel and entertainment               
EB Rental Ltd. [prior to June 3, 2021]   -    -    8,926 
                
Advertising and promotion               
EB Rental Ltd. [prior to June 3, 2021]   -    -    11,245 
                
Office salaries and benefits               
Montana Strategies Inc.   29,059    62,462    - 

 

The Company leases its Boisbriand premises from California Electric Boat Company Inc. with a right-of-use assets as at August 31, 2023 of $1,270,955 [August 31, 2021 – $889,866] and lease liability of $1,395,732 [August 31, 2021 – $971,399] [notes 9 and 15].

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Remuneration of directors and key management of the Company

 

    2023     2022     2021  
    $     $     $  
Wages     2,447,827       2,324,770       1,299,402  
Share-based payments – capital stock     433,263       -       -  
Share-based payments – stock options     382,196       2,560,031       6,081,900  
      3,263,286       4,884,801       7,381,302  

 

At the end of the year, the amounts due to and from related parties are as follows: 

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
Share subscription receivable          
9335-1427 Quebec Inc.   25,000    25,000 
Alexandre Mongeon   14,200    14,200 
    39,200    39,200 
Current advances to related party          
Alexandre Mongeon   20,135    16,736 
Amounts due to related parties included in trade and other payable          
Alexandre Mongeon   19,384    16,000 
Patrick Bobby   13,847    12,308 
Kulwant Sandher   8,654    8,062 
Xavier Montagne   10,454    8,292 
Mac Engineering, SASU   9,935    - 
    62,274    44,662 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

18. Capital stock

 

Authorized

 

Voting Common Shares – Series Founder, Series Investor 1, Series Investor 2, voting and participating

 

Non-Voting Common Shares, non-voting

 

Preferred shares, without par value, non-cumulative annual dividend, redeemable at their issue price, non- participating, non-voting

 

Issued

 

   2023   2022 
   $   $ 
11,171,800 voting common shares [2022 – 8,471,923]   50,395,717    43,441,591 

 

Subscription and issuance of Voting Common Shares

 

On January 12, 2022 and February 1, 2022, the Board of Directors authorized the issuance of 25,000 Voting Common Shares and 5,435 Voting Common Shares respectively to a third party in exchange for marketing services provided to the Company.

 

On January 31, 2022, the Board of Directors authorized the issuance of 6,479 Voting Common Shares to a third party in exchange for sub-contracting services provided to the Company related to research and development.

 

During the six-month period ended August 31, 2022, the Company issued 53,445 Voting Common Shares to third parties in exchange for marketing services provided to the Company.

 

On August 25, 2022, the Company issued 2,703 Voting Common Shares upon the exercise of a former employee’s stock options.

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued a total of 299,393 Voting Common Shares, respectively, to third parties in exchange for marketing services provided to the Company.

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued 57,219 Voting Common Shares upon the exercises of two former employees and a consultant’s stock options.

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued 2,398,265 Voting Common Shares and warrants to purchase Voting Common Shares, respectively as part of the financing rounds for a total cash consideration price of $12,012,591, net of transaction costs of $1,225,676. During the year ended August 31, 2023, the warrants issued are to purchase 2,398,265 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the issuance date at an exercise price at U.S. $4.21.

 

As at August 31, 2023, the derivative liabilities related to the warrants issued amounted to $5,558,822 [August 31, 2022 – Nil], with the allocated transaction costs of $718,546 recorded in net finance income (expense) [note 22].

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

  

2023

$

  

2022

$

 
Opening balance   -    - 
Additions   7,614,510    - 
Change in estimate   (2,055,688)   - 
Closing balance   5,558,822    - 

 

19. Share-based payments

 

Description of the plan

 

The Company has a fixed option plan. The Company’s stock option plan is administered by the Board of Directors. Under the plan, the Company’s Board of Directors may grant stock options to employees, advisors and consultants, and designates the number of options and the share price pursuant to the new options, subject to applicable regulations. The options, when granted, will have an exercise price of no less than the estimated fair value of shares at the date of grant.

 

Stock options

 

On multiple grant dates, the Company granted a total of 1,664,526 stock options at exercise prices varying between

 

$2.78 and $16.29 per share to directors, officers, employees and consultants of the Company. The stock options will expire 5 to 10 years from the grant dates.

 

The Company recognizes share-based payments expense for option grants based on the fair value at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model. The share-based payments expense recognized for the year ended August 31, 2023 amounts to $1,136,182 [2022 – $2,699,481; 2021 - $7,121,444]. The table below lists the assumptions used to determine the fair value of these option grants. Volatility is based on the historical share price volatility of the Company and other public companies with characteristics similar to the Company.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Grant date 

Exercise

price

  

Market

price

  

Expected

volatility

  

Risk-free

interest

rate

  

Expected

life

 
   $   $   %   %   [years] 
May 27, 2020   3.70    3.70    84    0.4    5 
May 27, 2020   2.78    3.70    84    0.4    5 
October 23, 2020   3.70    3.70    97    0.4    5 
November 24, 2020   16.29    13.03    101    0.4    5 
November 24, 2020   5.68    5.72    75    3.6    4 
February 23, 2021   15.75    15.05    103    0.6    5 
May 14, 2021   5.68    5.72    75    3.6    3 
July 14, 2021   9.25    9.01    105    0.7    5 
September 21, 2021   8.85    8.58    106    0.9    5 
January 22, 2022   5.65    5.52    107    1.5    5 
November 30, 2022   6.09    6.09    107    3.1    5 
December 1, 2022   5.83    5.83    107    3.0    5 
March 22, 2023   5.76    5.14    75    3.6    2 
March 25, 2023   5.77    5.23    75    3.6    3 
March 25, 2023   5.77    5.23    75    3.6    4 
April 20, 2023   5.79    5.27    75    3.6    5 

 

The following tables summarize information regarding the option grants outstanding as at August 31, 2023:

 

   Number of options   Weighted average exercise price 
    #    $ 
Balance at August 31, 2021   1,659,121    9.95 
Granted   152,500    6.70 
Forfeited   (102,500)   13.59 
Exercised   (2,703)   3.70 
Balance at August 31, 2022   1,706,418    9.45 
Granted   88,500    5.80 
Forfeited   (268,158)   9.65 
Stock options modifications   (370,000)   5.78 
Exercised   (57,219)   2.86 
Balance at August 31, 2023   1,099,541    5.22 

 

On March 25, 2023, 425,000 options previously granted to directors and officers of the Company with exercise price ranging from U.S. $7.42 ($8.98) to U.S. $12.50 ($16,29) and five-year term were cancelled and the Company agreed to issue 255,000 stock options with an exercise price of U.S. $4.21 ($5.78). The modification of these stock options granted resulted in an increase in the fair value of the stock options at the date of modification of $129,800, recorded as stock-based compensation expense for the year ended August 31, 2023.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

    Number of             
Exercise price   options   Weighted average   Weighted average   Exercisable 
range   outstanding   grant date fair value   remaining contractual life   options 
$    #    $    [years]    # 
2.78 - 3.70    454,041    2.48    2.13    497,869 
5.65 – 5.83    580,500    2.94    4.51    498,300 
6.09 – 8.85    30,000    6.26    7.83    25,000 
16.29    35,000    9.33    7.50    35,000 

 

Warrants

 

On November 23, 2020, the Company granted the underwriter the option to purchase 151,800 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of five years from the date of the initial public offering at an exercise price of

 

U.S. $12.50 ($16.53).

 

On August 5, 2022, the Company granted the underwriter the option to purchase 50,000 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of four years from the grant date at an exercise price of U.S. $8.00 ($10.30).

 

On January 19, 2023, as part of a share subscription, the Company issued warrants with the option to purchase 554,253 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the grant date at an exercise price of U.S. $4.21 ($5.63).

 

On February 17, 2023, as part of a share subscription, the Company issued warrants with the option to purchase 475,059 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the grant date at an exercise price of U.S. $4.21 ($5.67).

 

On April 19, 2023, as part of a share subscription, the Company issued warrants with the option to purchase 381,293 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the grant date at an exercise price of U.S. $4.21 ($5.64).

 

On June 16, 2023, as part of a share subscription, the Company issued warrants with the option to purchase 493,828 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the grant date at an exercise price of U.S. $4.21 ($5.35).

 

On August 2, 2023, as part of a share subscription, the Company issued warrants with the option to purchase 493,8323 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the grant date at an exercise price of U.S. $4.21 ($5.37).

 

The table below lists the assumptions used to determine the fair value of these warrants granted or issued at the grant or issuance date. Volatility is based on the historical share price volatility of the Company and other public companies with characteristics similar to the Company.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.

 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

August 31, 2023

 

Grant or issuance date 

 Exercise

price

$

  

Market

price

$

  

Expected

volatility

%

  

Risk-free

interest

rate

%

  

Expected

life

[years]

 
 August 5, 2022   10.30    7.20    100    2.9    3 
January 19, 2023   5.63    5.63    100    3.4    3 
February 17, 2023   5.67    6.05    100    4.0    3 
April 19, 2023   5.64    5.55    75    3.9    3 
June 16, 2023   5.35    5.50    75    4.1    3 
August 2, 2023   5.37    5.10    75    4.8    3 

 

Grant or issuance date    Exercise price   Number of warrants
outstanding
   Weighted average remaining
contractual life
 
   $   #   [years] 
 November 23, 2020   16.53    151,800    2.23 
August 5, 2022   10.30    50,000    1.93 
January 19, 2023   5.63    554,253    2.39 
February 17, 2023   5.67    475,059    2.47 
April 19, 2023   5.64    381,293    2.64 
June 16, 2023   5.35    493,828    2.79 
August 2, 2023   5.37    493,832    2.92 

 

20.Revenues

 

   2023   2022   2021 
   $   $   $ 
Sales of boats   1,287,979    2,459,365    2,080,110 
Sales of parts and boat maintenance   324,720    97,721    75,205 
Boat rental and boat club membership revenue   4,038,803    4,793,860    1,355,548 
Other   -    -    2,925 
    5,651,502    7,350,946    3,513,788 

 

The geographical distribution of revenues from external customers is as follows:

 

   2023 
   Sale of electric
boats
   Rental of
electric boats
   Total 
   $   $   $ 
Canada   348,570    -    348,570 
USA   1,078,124    4,038,803    5,116,927 
Other   186,005    -    186,005 
    1,612,699    4,038,803    5,651,502 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

   2022   2021 
   Sale of electric
boats
   Rental of
electric boats
   Total   Total 
   $   $   $   $ 
Canada   557,639    -    557,639    571,216 
USA   1,292,666    4,793,861    6,086,527    2,692,599 
Other   706,780    -    706,780    249,973 
    2,557,085    4,793,861    7,350,946    3,513,788 

 

21.Grants and investment tax credits

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company recognized grants and investment tax credits amounting to

 

$232,882 [August 31, 2022 – $1,458,632; August 31, 2021 - $921,658], of which $144,032 are presented against research and development expenses [August 31, 2022 – $1,408,840; August 31, 2021 - $859,516], $Nil against cost of sales [August 31, 2022 – $8,535; August 31, 2021 - $Nil] and $Nil as a reduction of property and equipment and intangible assets [August 31, 2022 – $40,584; August 31, 2021 - $44,939]. Office salaries and benefits are presented net of $88,850 [August 31, 2022 – $Nil; August 31, 2021 - $17,203] of grants.

 

22.Net finance expense (income)

 

   2023   2022   2021 
   $   $   $ 
Interest and bank charges   142,117    184,895    123,100 
Interest income   (113,334)   (379,288)   - 
Foreign currency exchange (gain) loss   (208,132)   (251,947)   1,583,292 
Transaction costs   719,167    -    - 
Gain on derivative liabilities   (2,055,688)   -    - 
Loss (gain) on Debentures [note 8]   (88,666)   670,000    550,000 
    (1,604,536)   223,660    2,256,392 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

23.Income taxes

 

The income tax expense on the Company’s loss before tax differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the federal, provincial and foreign statutory tax rates applicable. The difference is as follows:

 

   2023   2022   2021 
   $   $   $ 
Income taxes at the applicable tax rate of 26.5%   (5,606,886)   (3,406,162)   (3,977,204)
[2022 – 26.5%; 2021 – 26.5%]               
Change in tax status following the initial public offering   -    -    (127,979)
Adjustment in respect of current and deferred income tax of previous year   (72,894)   (4,396)   (207,601)
Permanent differences   70,418    823,119    2,100,615 
Change in recognition of deferred income tax assets   5,328,487    2,816,417    2,317,759 
Other   -    29,365    - 
Total income tax expense (recovery)   (280,875)   258,343    105,590 

 

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax impact of temporary differences between the value of assets and liabilities for accounting and tax purposes. The main components of the deferred tax expense and deferred tax assets and liabilities were as follows:

 

   Balance as at August 31, 2022   Recognized in net loss   Recognized in equity   Other   Balance as at August 31, 2023 
   $   $   $   $   $ 
Temporary differences                         
Property and equipment   (155,298)   (20,228)   -    (8,650)   (184,176)
Intangibles   (294,385)   39,009    -    98    (255,278)
Net operating losses   4,790,012    4,564,752    -    -    9,354,764 
Financing fees   705,594    (107,450)   134,225    -    732,369 
Research and development   430,835    557,162    -    -    987,997 
Difference in timing of recognition   259,118    493,379    -    3,403    755,900 
Right-of-use asset   (616,907)   19,531    -    (6,613)   (603,989)
Lease liability   658,847    (7,400)   -    12,861    664,308 
Net capital losses   50,418    -    -    -    50,418 
Unrecognized deferred tax assets   (6,016,278)   (5,328,487)   (134,225)   -    (11,478,990)
Deferred tax liability   (188,044)   210,268    -    1,099    23,323 

 

The net operating losses carried forward and deductible temporary differences for which deferred tax assets have not been recognized amounted to $45,415,000 as at August 31, 2023 [2022 - $23,849,000]. Of these amounts, $35,333,000 [2022 - $18,194,000] relates to net operating losses carried forward, that will expire between 2040 and 2043 and $3,541,000 [2022 - $1,439,000] relates to research and development expenditures, which can be carried forward indefinitely.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

As of August 31, 2023, the Company has available Canadian federal non-refundable investment tax credits of $642,000 [2022 - $240,000] related to research and development expenditures which may be used to reduce Canadian federal income taxes payable in future years. These non-refundable investment tax credits will expire between 2041 and 2043. The benefits of these non-refundable investment tax credits have not been recognized in the consolidated financial statements.

 

24.Capital disclosures

 

The Company’s objectives in managing capital are:

 

to safeguard the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern, so that it can continue to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders; and

 

to provide an adequate return to shareholders by pricing products and services commensurately with the level of risk.

 

Capital is regarded as total equity, as recognized in the statement of financial position, plus net debt. Net debt is calculated as total borrowings less cash and cash equivalents.

 

The Company manages and adjusts its capital structure considering changes in economic conditions. To maintain or adjust its capital structure, the Company may issue debt or new shares. Financing decisions are generally made on a specific transaction basis and depend on such things as the Company’s needs, capital markets and economic conditions at the time of the transaction. Management reviews its capital management approach on an ongoing basis and believes that this approach is reasonable, given the size of the Company.

 

The Company does not have any externally imposed capital compliance requirements at August 31, 2023.

 

25.Financial risk management and fair value measurement

 

Fair value measurement and hierarchy

 

The fair value measurement of the Company’s financial and non-financial assets and liabilities utilizes market observable inputs and data as far as possible. Inputs used in determining fair value measurements are categorized into different levels based on how observable the inputs used in the valuation technique utilized are (the “fair value hierarchy”):

 

Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical items [unadjusted];

 

Level 2: Observable direct or indirect inputs other than Level 1 inputs; and

 

Level 3: Unobservable inputs [i.e., not derived from market data].

 

The classification of an item into the above levels is based on the lowest level of the inputs used that has a significant effect on the fair value measurement of the item. Transfers of items between levels are recognized in the period they occur.

 

The carrying amount of trade and other receivables, advances from related parties and trade and other payables are assumed to approximate their fair value due to their short-term nature.

 

The fair value of financial liabilities is estimated by discounting the remaining contractual maturities at the current market interest rate that is available for similar financial liabilities.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

Classified as Level 2, the fair value of Debentures was estimated using the partial differential equation model to value convertible debentures that include a call feature. Key assumptions used in the model include volatility, which was based on actual trading data, difference in volatility since initial issuance of the instrument and similar instruments on the market, and credit spread, which was based on corporate bond yield spreads in the market and credit spread data for similar public companies. The model included a fair value adjustment based on an initial calibration exercise. During the three months ended February 28, 2023, the Company recorded an impairment loss on the Debentures based on the estimated recoverable amount of the financial asset [note 8].

 

The fair value of the derivative liabilities related to the warrants issued is classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy and is calculated using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model using the historical volatility of comparable companies as an estimate of future volatility. As at August 31, 2023, the Company used volatility of approximately 75% over the remaining contractual life in order to determine the fair value of the derivative liabilities. As at August 31, 2023, if the volatility used was increased by 10% the impact would be an increase of $628,000 to the derivative liabilities with corresponding increase in total comprehensive loss.

 

Financial risk management

 

The Company is exposed to risks that arise from its use of financial instruments. This note describes the Company’s objectives, policies and processes for managing those risks and the methods used to measure them.

 

[a]Credit risk

 

Credit risk refers to the risk that a counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss to the Company. The Company has a strict code of credit, including obtaining instalment payments, obtaining agency credit information and setting appropriate credit limits. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date, is the carrying amount of financial assets. The Company does not hold any collateral.

 

Credit risk related with the Debentures is reflected in the fair value of the instrument [note 8].

 

Trade and other receivables are generally written off when there is no reasonable expectation of recovery. Indicators of this include the failure for a debtor to engage in a repayment plan, no active enforcement activity and a failure to make contractual payments.

 

[b]Liquidity risk

 

Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will encounter difficulty in meeting its financial obligations as they fall due. The Company is exposed to liquidity risk primarily from its trade and other payables, other financial liabilities and long-term debt.

 

   Contractual
cash flows
   Less than
one year
   1-5 years 
   $   $   $ 
August 31, 2023               
Trade and other payables   550,836    550,836    - 
Other financial liabilities   113,694    113,694    - 
Long-term debt   305,329    231,546    73,783 
    969,859    896,076    73,783 
                
August 31, 2022               
Trade and other payables   1,030,331    1,030,331    - 
Other financial liabilities   177,834    177,834    - 
Long-term debt   227,349    72,090    155,259 
    1,435,514    1,280,255    155,259 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

[c]Interest rate risk

 

The Company is exposed to interest rate risk on its variable rate bank indebtedness and variable and fixed rate long-term debt. Fixed-rate borrowings expose the Company to fair value risk while variable rate borrowings expose the Company to cash flow risk.

 

[d]Foreign exchange risk

 

Foreign exchange risk is the risk that future cash flows or fair value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange rates.

 

The Company is exposed to transactional foreign currency risk to the extent that there is a mismatch between the currencies in which sales, purchases, receivables and borrowings are denominated and the respective functional currencies of the Company and its subsidiaries.

 

The Company has certain financial assets and liabilities denominated in United States dollars. The Canadian dollar equivalent carrying amounts of these assets and liabilities are as follows:

 

   2023   2022 
   $   $ 
Cash   3,258,419    5,142,703 
Trade and other receivables   188,001    103,116 
Trade and other payables   800,149    172,871 

 

Sensitivity

 

A reasonably possible 5% strengthening (weakening) of the U.S. dollar against the Canadian Dollar at the reporting date would have increased (decreased) net loss and other comprehensive loss by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables remain constant.

 

   Net loss   Other comprehensive income 
   +5%   -5%   +5%   -5% 
   $   $   $   $ 
August 31, 2023   24,281    (24,281)   350,586    (350,586)

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

26.Segment information

 

The Company operates in two reportable business segments.

 

The two reportable business segments offer different products and services, require different processes and are based on how the financial information is produced internally for the purposes of monitoring operating results and making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment by the Company’s Chief Operating Decision Maker.

 

The following summary describes the operations of each of the Company’s reportable business segments:

 

Sale of electric boats – manufacture of customized electric boats for consumer market and sale of boat parts maintenance, and

 

Rental of electric boats – short-term rental operation and boat club membership.

 

Sales between segments are accounted for at prices that approximate fair value. No business segments have been aggregated to form the above reportable business segments.

 

   Year ended August 31, 2023 
   Sale of electric boats   Rental of electric boats   Inter-segment eliminations   Total 
   $   $   $   $ 
Revenue from external customers   1,612,699    4,038,803    -    5,651,502 
Revenue from other segments   867,097    336,683    (1,203,780)   - 
Segment revenues   2,479,796    4,375,486    (1,203,780)   5,651,502 
Segment gross profit (loss)   (242,590)   1,966,466    (187,450)   1,536,426 
                     
Segment loss before tax   (20,363,838)   (623,856)   (170,367)   (21,158,061)
Research and development   5,938,010    -    (233,098)   5,704,912 
Office salaries and benefits   2,769,196    1,237,246    7,739    4,014,181 

 

   Year ended August 31, 2023 
   Sale of electric boats   Rental of electric boats   Inter-segment eliminations   Total 
   $   $   $   $ 
Revenue from external customers   2,557,086    4,793,860    -    7,350,946 
Revenue from other segments   820,383    80,842    (901,225)   - 
Segment revenues   3,377,469    4,874,702    (901,225)   7,350,946 
Segment gross profit (loss)   596,570    2,839,970    (150,975)   3,285,565 
Segment (loss) profit before tax   (13,632,377)   872,787    (93,852)   (12,853,442)
Research and development   2,242,794    -    -    2,242,794 
Office salaries and benefits   2,384,746    951,053    -    3,335,799 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

   August 31, 2021 
   Sale of electric
boats
   Rental of
electric boats
   Sale of electric
boats
   Total 
   $   $   $   $ 
Revenue from external customers   2,158,240    1,355,548    -    3,513,788 
Revenue from other segments   142,007    7,476    (149,483)   - 
Segment revenues   2,300,247    1,363,024    (149,483)   3,513,788 
Segment gross profit (loss)   640,228    1,003,596    (39,642)   1,604,182 
                     
Segment (loss) profit before tax                    
Research and development   (15,517,319)   541,257    (32,255)   (15,008,317)
Office salaries and benefits   1,489,953    -    -    1,489,953 

 

   August 31, 2023 
   Sale of electric boats   Rental of electric boats   Sale of electric boats   Total 
   $   $   $   $ 
Segment assets   20,344,002    13,941,898    (10,239,388)   24,046,512 
Cash   3,025,565    333,692    -    3,359,257 
Additions to property and equipment   194,820    974,533    (185,744)   983,609 
Segment liabilities   10,154,031    3,341,868    (1,013,824)   12,482,075 

 

   August 31, 2022 
   Sale of electric boats   Rental of electric boats   Sale of electric boats   Total 
   $   $   $   $ 
Segment assets   24,499,107    14,039,428    (9,438,326)   29,100,209 
Cash   4,146,260    1,678,456    -    5,824,716 
Additions to property and equipment   412,158    859,176    (162,446)   1,108,888 
Segment liabilities   2,023,368    3,311,128    (262,883)   5,071,613 

 

The Company has disclosed the above amounts for each reportable segment because they are regularly reviewed by the Chief Operating Decision Maker.

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

27.Additional cash flows information

 

Financing and investing activities not involving cash:

 

   2023
$
   2022
$
   2021
$
 
Advances to related parties converted to shares   -    -    898,489 
Unpaid share subscription   -    -    39,200 
Right-of-use assets transferred to intangibles, net of accumulated depreciation   -    -    5,981 
Additions to right-of-use assets   921,498    234,608    852,467 
Lease termination   101,471    273,652    37,033 
Shares issued as consideration for the acquisition of intangible assets   -    -    573,936 
Shares issued as consideration for business acquisition   -    -    3,474,232 
Transaction costs for share issuance transferred from prepaid   -    -    213,019 

 

28.Commitments

 

In addition to the obligations under leases [note 15], the Company is subject to supply agreements with minimum spend commitments. The amount of the minimum fixed and determinable portion of the unconditional purchase obligations over the next years, is as follows:

 

   $ 
2024   10,943,420 

 

In October 2021, EB Rental Ltd. has entered into lease arrangement for premises, which have not commenced yet and therefore related right-of-use asset and lease liability are not recorded as at August 31, 2023. The lease offers EB Rental Ltd. a termination clause in case certain contractual requirements are not met by the lessor at the lease commencement date.

 

The Company’s undiscounted lease commitments related to this lease are as follows as at August 31, 2023:

 

   $ 
2024   67,675 
2025   163,774 
2026   167,049 
2027 and thereafter   446,736 

 

 

 

 

Vision Marine Technologies Inc.
 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
 
August 31, 2023

 

29.Subsequent events

 

During the months of September, October and November 2023, the Company issued a total of 103,650 Voting Common Shares to third parties in exchange of sub-contracting services provided to the Company related to marketing and investor relations.

 

On September 20, 2023, the Company issued 372,870 Voting Common Shares and warrants to purchase Voting Common Shares, respectively as part of the financing rounds for a total cash consideration price of $1,695,388, net of transaction costs of $334,672. The warrants issued are to purchase 372,870 Voting Common Shares of the Company for a period of three years from the grant date at an exercise price at U.S. $4.05.

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 99.2

 

VISION MARINE TECHNOLOGIES INC.

Form 51-102F1 Management's Discussion & Analysis

For the year ended August 31, 2023

 

1.1 Date November 27, 2023

 

Introduction

 

The following management's discussion and analysis, prepared as of August 31, 2023, is a review of operations, current financial position and outlook for Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "Company"), and should be read in conjunction with the Company's audited consolidated financial statements for the years ended August 31, 2023 and 2022 and the notes thereto. Amounts are reported in Canadian dollars based upon the consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain statements contained in the following Management’s Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”) constitute forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements involve a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

 

Risks and Uncertainties

 

There is limited public information on our operating history.

 

Our limited public operating history makes evaluating our business and prospects difficult. Although we were formed in 2012, we did not provide public reports on the results of operations until our 2020 fiscal year. We only have five years of audited financial statements.

 

We currently have a net loss, and if we are unable to achieve and grow a net income in the future our ability to grow our business as planned will be adversely affected.

 

We have made significant up-front investments in research and development, sales and marketing, and general and administrative expenses to rapidly develop and expand our business. We had a net loss of $22.9 million in our 2023 fiscal year as compared to a net loss of $13.1 million in our 2022 fiscal year and a net loss of $15.1 million in our 2021 fiscal year. We may never achieve net income or if we do it may fail to grow or even decline in certain circumstances, many of which are beyond our control. Our revenues might not ever significantly exceed our expenses, and may even be lower than our expenses. It may take us longer to obtain net income than we anticipate, if at all, or we may only do so at a much lower rate than we anticipate. Failure to obtain net income may mean that we will have to curtail our planned growth in operations or resort to financings to fund such growth in the future.

 

Our plan of operations entails promoting a product that we may never launch or which may not be commercially accepted if launched.

 

We have concentrated the majority of our research and development efforts on developing electric powertrain systems that we intend to rent and sell to Original Equipment Manufacturers (“OEM”) of boats. We expect the electric powertrain systems to represent the majority of our revenue in our coming accounting periods. We have built prototypes of our electronic powertrain. We do not know if OEMs will find our product candidate to be an attractive component in their boats or if they will find the price of our electric powertrains to be acceptable. We do not currently have any significant customers for our electric powertrains. Although we have received LOIs from OEMs for over 1,000 powertrains through the year ended August 31, 2024, such LOIs are non-binding and may never result in any actual sales. Even if we do develop such relationships, we might not be able to maintain them or grow them as anticipated. At the time of our initial public offering, we had expected to begin the commercialization of our electric powertrains in 2020 but were not able to meet that preferred timeline and we may not meet our new timelines. Additionally, we had anticipated developing a 335 horsepower within 18 months of our last annual report but currently do not believe that we will meet that anticipated date. If we are not successful in commercializing our product or if sales of our electric powertrain are less than we estimate, our business may not grow as expected, if at all, and we may fail.

 

 

 

To carry out our proposed business plan to build up inventory for order fulfilment, increase brand awareness and develop a new powertrain for our engines, we will require a significant amount of capital.

 

If current cash, cash equivalents and revenue from our business are not sufficient to cover our cash requirements, we will need to raise additional funds through the sale of debt or equity securities, in either private placements or additional registered offerings. If we are unsuccessful in raising enough funds through such capital-raising efforts, we may review other financing possibilities such as bank loans. Financing might not be available to us or, if available, only on terms that are not favorable or acceptable to us.

 

Our ability to obtain the necessary financing to carry out our business plan is subject to a number of factors, including general market conditions and investor acceptance of our business plan. These factors may make the timing, amount, terms and conditions of such financing unattractive or unavailable to us. If we are unable to raise sufficient funds, we will have to significantly reduce our spending, delay or cancel our planned activities or substantially change our current corporate structure. We might not be able to obtain any funding, and we might not have sufficient resources to conduct our business as projected, both of which could mean that we would be forced to curtail or discontinue our operations.

 

Terms of subsequent financings may adversely impact your investment.

 

We may have to engage in common equity, debt, or preferred share financings in the future. As a result, your rights and the value of your investment in our securities could be reduced. Interest on debt securities could increase costs and negatively impact operating results. Preferred shares could be issued in one or more series from time to time with such designation, rights, preferences, and limitations as determined by the Board. The terms of preferred shares could be more advantageous to those investors than to the holders of common shares. In addition, if we need to raise more equity capital from the sale of common shares, institutional or other investors may negotiate terms at least as, and possibly more, favorable than the terms of your investment in our common shares.

 

Our future growth depends upon consumers’ willingness to purchase electric powerboats.

 

Our growth highly depends upon the adoption by consumers of, and we are subject to an elevated risk of any reduced demand for, electric powerboats. Without such growth, sales of our electric powertrain, if any, and our electric boats may not grow at the rate that we anticipate, if such sales grow at all. If the market for electric powerboats does not develop as we expect or develops more slowly than we expect, our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results will be negatively impacted. Despite the long history of electric powerboats, the market for them is relatively new, rapidly evolving, characterized by rapidly changing technologies, price competition, additional competitors, evolving government regulation and industry standards, frequent new electric powerboat announcements and changing consumer demands and behaviors. Powerboats with conventional gas-powered motors may be deemed preferable to electric powerboats as they tend to be more powerful, have a longer range and/or cost less. Other factors that may influence the adoption of electric powerboats include:

 

the decline of an electric powerboats range resulting from deterioration over time in the battery’s ability to hold a charge;
concerns about electric grid capacity and reliability, which could derail our efforts to promote electric powerboats as a practical solution to powerboats which require gasoline;
improvements in the fuel economy of the internal combustion engine;
the availability of service for electric powerboats;
the environmental consciousness of consumers;
volatility in the cost of oil and gasoline;
consumers’ perceptions about convenience and cost to charge an electric powerboat;
the availability of tax and other governmental incentives to manufacture electric powerboats; and
perceptions about and the actual cost of alternative fuel.

 

 

 

Any of the factors described above may cause current or potential customers not to purchase our electric powerboat, which would materially adversely affect our business, operating results, financial condition and prospects.

 

Our future growth depends upon consumers’ preference for outboard motors.

 

We envision the majority of our growth deriving from the sale of our electric powertrain for an outboard motor. If consumer preferences lead to a decline in outboard motors, the OEMs we intend to sell our electric powertrain to may produce less electric boats, and we may not be able to sell as many electric powertrains as we anticipate, if we sell any at all. We may not be able to adapt the technology behind this powertrain for inboard motors or may only be able to do so in a way that is not cost effective.

 

We rely on a limited number of suppliers for key components of our finished products.

 

Although we manufacture all of our powerboats, we do so by assembling the component parts that we acquire from third-party suppliers rather than by producing any of those component parts ourselves. We materially depend on some of those third-party suppliers for certain components that we obtain from a limited number of suppliers, namely:

 

hulls: we purchase all of our hulls from Aqualux and Abitibi & Co.,
Motors: for our electric powertrains, we intend to purchase motors from Danfoss Technologies and E-Propulsion and for our boats, we purchase approximately 30% from Min-Kota, 35% from E-Tech and 20% from E-Propulsion;
powertrains: we purchase approximately 100% of our low powered powertrains from E-Propulsion, a Chinese company specialized in the research, development and production of components for electric outboard engines;
battery packs: we purchase our lithium-ion batteries (approximately 15% of all batteries we purchase) from Octillion and Neogy who in turn rely upon Samsung cells, We have an agreement with Octillion Power Systems (“Octillion”) to provide marine specific batteries to power the E-Motion powertrain; and
casings: we purchase the casings for our powertrains from Tohatshu Corporation, a Japanese company.

 

As we purchase our components and parts through purchase orders and informal arrangements rather than long-term purchase agreements, we have not contractually secured a supply chain for these components and parts. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, some of our third-party suppliers have experienced delays in delivering parts and components for our products. If we continue to experience delays in receiving our supplies from these third-parties, if they significantly increased the cost of these components or if they ceased offering us these components, we may have to find new suppliers, which might not be possible on a timely basis, or cease production of the products in which the components are included.

 

In June 2021, we acquired EB Rental, Ltd. (“EBR”), and the acquired company may not perform as we expect.

 

In June 2021, we acquired all of the equity interests of 7858078 Canada Inc. which wholly-owns EBR, an electric boat rental company operating at Lido Marina Village in Newport Beach, California. Integrating businesses is a difficult, expensive, and time-consuming process. Our principal executive offices and manufacturing facility are located in Quebec, Canada and EBRs operations are conducted, and its employees are mostly located, in California. Failure to integrate successfully EBRs business and operations with ours could lead to inefficiencies, the loss of staff or revenues below what we anticipated at the time of the acquisition.

 

Revenues from EBR may be affected by a variety of factors that are outside of our control.

 

Revenues from EBR represented 71% of our total revenues in our fiscal 2023. Future revenues from EBR may be affected by factors that are outside of our control, including:

 

the appearance, safety, economic health and ability to continue to attract visitors willing to rent electric vehicles at the Lido Village and Portside Ventura marinas;

 

 

 

the ability to successfully operate our rental operation in Ventura, California that was opened during the quarter ending May 31, 2023, with 6 boats
the continued desirability of boat rentals as a leisure activity; and
the local economic condition in and around the areas we offer rentals or may offer rentals in the future.

 

If EBR’s revenues decrease significantly, it may cease to be profitable or our revenues may not be as large as we currently project.

 

A portion of our assets consist of debentures in a third-party, and the ability of that third-party to repay those debentures is outside of our control. If those debentures were not to be repaid in full, our assets could be significantly reduced

 

On May 14, 2021, we purchased $3,400,000 in debentures (the “Debentures”) from The Limestone Boat Company Limited (“Limestone”). Limestone is a North American designer and manufacturer of recreational and commercial powerboats. Because (i) Limestone announced that in January 2023 that its wholly-owned subsidiaries had filed for voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Tennessee, (ii) the market price of Limestone’s common shares had fallen significantly below the conversion price set out in the Debentures and (iii) because we deemed it unlikely that we would convert the debt pursuant to the original terms of the Debentures, we agreed with Limestone on July 18, 2023 to convert the Debentures into approximately 7% of Limestones common shares. Prior to the conversion, the Company had recorded an impairment on the entire value of the Debentures at the amount of nil and $2,637,000 for the year ended August 31, 2023. If Limestone is not able to perform above expectations, the value of our investment could be significantly.

 

The range of electric powerboats on a single charge declines over time which may negatively influence potential customers’ decisions whether to purchase our boats or boats containing our electric powertrains.

 

The range of electric powerboats on a single charge declines principally as a function of usage, time and charging patterns. For example, a customer’s use of their powerboat as well as the frequency with which they charge the battery can result in additional deterioration of the battery’s ability to hold a charge. During the lifetime of the lead acid batteries in powerboats, 500 to 1,000 recharge cycles are possible, and our lithium battery pack will retain approximately 85% of its ability to hold its initial charge after approximately 3,000 charge cycles and 8 years, which will result in a decrease to the boat’s initial range. Such battery deterioration and the related decrease in range may negatively influence potential customer decisions whether to purchase an electric boat, which may harm our ability to market and sell our boats. Likewise, if such reasoning deters potential customers from purchasing boats made by OEMs that use our electric powertrains, they may order fewer electric powertrains from us, if they ever order any at all.

 

Developments in alternative technologies or improvements in the internal combustion engine may materially adversely affect the demand for our electric powerboats.

 

Significant developments in alternative technologies, such as advanced diesel, ethanol, fuel cells or compressed natural gas, or improvements in the fuel economy of the internal combustion engine, may materially and adversely affect our business and prospects in ways we do not currently anticipate. For example, fuel which is abundant and relatively inexpensive in North America, such as compressed natural gas, may emerge as consumers’ preferred alternative to petroleum-based propulsion. Any failure by us to develop new or enhanced technologies or processes, or to react to changes in existing technologies, could materially delay our development and introduction of new and enhanced electric powerboats, which could result in the loss of competitiveness of our boats, decreased revenue and a loss of market share to competitors.

 

 

 

If we are unable to keep up with advances in electric powerboat technology, we may lose our competitive position in the industry.

 

We may be unable to keep up with changes in electric powerboats technology, particularly developments with powertrains. As a result, we may lose our competitive position in the industry. Any failure to keep up with advances in electric powerboat technology could result in a loss of our competitive position which would materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition. Our research and development efforts may not be sufficient to adapt to changes in electric powerboat technology. As technologies change, we plan to upgrade or adapt our electric powertrain. We would additionally upgrade our boats and introduce new models to take advantage of these changes. However, our technology and boats may not compete effectively with alternative technology or powerboats if we are not able to source and integrate the latest technology. For example, we do not manufacture lead or lithium battery cells, and as a result, we are dependent on suppliers of battery cell technology for our battery packs.

 

Demand in the powerboat industry is highly volatile.

 

Fluctuations in demand for recreational powerboats and electric powerboats may materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition. The markets in which we compete have been subject to considerable volatility in demand in recent periods. Demand for recreational powerboat and electric powerboat sales depends to a large extent on general, economic and social conditions in a given market. Historically, sales of recreational powerboats decrease during economic downturns. We have fewer financial resources than more established powerboat manufacturers to withstand adverse changes in the market and disruptions in demand.

 

Unfavorable weather conditions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations, especially during the peak boating season.

 

Adverse weather conditions in any year, in any particular geographic region, may adversely affect sales in that particular geographic region, especially during the peak boating season in such particular geographic region. Sales of our products are generally stronger just before and during spring and summer, which represent the peak boating months in most of our markets, and favorable weather during these months generally has a positive effect on consumer demand for our products. Conversely, unseasonably cool weather, excessive rainfall, reduced rainfall levels, or drought conditions during these periods may close area boating locations or render boating dangerous or inconvenient, thereby generally reducing consumer demand for our products. Our annual results would be materially and adversely affected if our net sales were to fall below expected seasonal levels during these periods. We may also experience more pronounced seasonal fluctuation in net sales in the future as we continue to expand our businesses. Additionally, to the extent that unfavorable weather conditions are exacerbated by global climate change or otherwise, our sales may be affected to a greater degree than we have previously experienced. Adverse weather could also affect income from our rental business as we tend to rent significantly less boats on rainy or otherwise unappealing days than on sunny and attractive ones. If we experience more rainy or otherwise unappealing days at our marinas than normal, our income from the rental of electric boats could materially decline.

 

We intend to increasingly use our network of independent dealers, and we will face increasing competition for dealers and have little control over their activities.

 

Currently, most of our sales are directly placed with us online, but approximately [15]% of our sales in our 2023 fiscal year were derived from our network of independent dealers. We have agreements with dealers in our network that typically provide for terms of between 1 and 3 years. While we will continue to market direct sales through our website, we seek to increase revenues and diversify our sales points by expanding our network of independent dealers. We envision an increase in the number of dealers supporting our products and the quality of their marketing and servicing efforts being essential to our ability to increase sales. We may not be successful in our effort to grow our network of independent dealers.

 

Competition for dealers among recreational powerboat manufacturers continues to increase based on the quality, price, value and availability of the manufacturers’ products, the manufacturers’ attention to customer service and the marketing support that manufacturers provide to dealers. We will face intense competition from other recreational powerboat manufacturers in attracting and retaining dealers, and we might not be able to attract or retain relationships with qualified and successful dealers as well as our competition, if at all. We might not be able to maintain or improve our relationship with dealers or our market share position. In addition, independent dealers in the recreational powerboat industry have experienced significant consolidation in recent years, which could inhibit our ability to retain them or result in the loss of one or more of our dealers in the future if the surviving entity in any such consolidation purchases similar products from a competitor. If we do not establish a significant network of dealers, our future sales could fail to meet our projections, and our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected.

 

 

 

We envision that our success will depend, in part, upon the financial health of our dealers and their continued access to financing.

 

We seek to increase revenues and diversify our sales points by expanding our network of independent dealers. The financial health of our current and any future dealers is critical to our success. Our business, financial condition and results of operations may be adversely affected if the financial health of dealers that sell our products suffers. Their financial health may suffer for a variety of reasons, including a downturn in general economic conditions, rising interest rates, higher rents, increased labor costs and taxes, compliance with regulations and personal financial issues.

 

In addition, dealers require adequate liquidity to finance operations, including purchases of our products. Dealers are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties that could unfavorably affect their liquidity positions, including, among other things, continued access to adequate financing sources on a timely basis on reasonable terms. These sources of financing are vital to our ability to sell products through our distribution network. Access to floor plan financing generally facilitates dealers’ ability to purchase powerboats from us, and their financed purchases reduce our working capital requirements. If floor plan financing were not available to our dealers, our sales and our working capital levels could be adversely affected. The availability and terms of financing offered by dealers’ floor plan financing providers will continue to be influenced by:

 

their ability to access certain capital markets and to fund their operations in a cost-effective manner;
the performance of their overall credit portfolios;
their willingness to accept the risks associated with lending to dealers; and
the overall creditworthiness of those dealers.

 

Changes to trade policies, tariffs, and import/export regulations may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, and results of operations.

 

Although we manufacture our products in Canada, in our last fiscal year approximately 71% of our sales and rentals occurred in the United States, a percentage that could increase as our operations expand. Changes in laws and policies governing foreign trade could adversely affect our business. As a result of recent policy changes, there may be greater restrictions and economic disincentives on international trade. We anticipate that we will be affected by the agreement between the United States of America, the United Mexican States, and Canada (commonly known as USMCA), if ratified by all participants. Such agreement has the potential to adversely impact the global and local economies, our industry and global demand for our products and, as a result, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Interest rates and energy prices affect marine products’ sales

 

Although our products are not frequently financed by our dealers and retail powerboat consumers, we envision this becoming more common as we expand our operations and grow our network of distributors. This may not occur if interest rates rise because higher rates increase the borrowing costs and, as a result, the cost of doing business for dealers and the cost of powerboat purchases for consumers. Energy costs can represent a large portion of the costs to manufacture our products and can increase their ultimate sales price. Therefore, higher interest rates and fuel costs can adversely affect consumers’ decisions relating to recreational powerboating purchases.

 

We have a large fixed cost base that will affect our profitability if our sales decrease.

 

The fixed cost levels of operating a recreational powerboat manufacturer can put pressure on profit margins when sales and production decline. Our profitability depends, in part, on our ability to spread fixed costs over a large number of products sold and shipped, and if we decide to reduce our rate of production, gross or net margins could be negatively affected. Consequently, decreased demand or the need to reduce production can lower our ability to absorb fixed costs and materially impact our financial condition or results of operations.

 

 

 

We depend on certain key personnel, and our success will depend on our continued ability to retain and attract such qualified personnel.

 

Our success depends on the efforts, abilities and continued service of Alexandre Mongeon, our Chief Executive Officer, Kulwant Sandher, our Chief Financial Officer, and Xavier Montagne, our Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer. A number of these key employees and consultants have significant experience in the recreational boating, manufacturing and electric vehicle industries. A loss of service from any one of these individuals may adversely affect our operations, and we may have difficulty locating, or may not be able to locate and hire a suitable replacement. We have not obtained any “key person” insurance on certain key personnel.

 

We are subject to numerous environmental, health and safety laws and any breach of such laws may have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

 

We are subject to numerous environmental, health and safety laws, including statutes, regulations, bylaws and other legal requirements. These laws relate to the generation, use, handling, storage, transportation and disposal of regulated substances, including hazardous substances (such as batteries), dangerous goods and waste, emissions or discharges into soil, water and air, including noise and odors (which could result in remediation obligations), and occupational health and safety matters, including indoor air quality. These regulations also apply to any contamination that our powerboats cause in the lakes and rivers in which they operate. These legal requirements vary by location and can arise under federal, provincial, state or municipal laws. Any breach of such laws and/or requirements could have a material adverse effect on our company and its operating results.

 

Our powerboats are subject to mandated safety standards and failure to meet those standards could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

 

Given the inherent dangers involved with powerboats, all powerboats sold must comply with federal, state and provincial safety standards. Additionally, most powerboats sold in the United States meet the safety standards set by the American Boat and Yacht Counsel (“ABYC”), a non-profit, member organization that develops voluntary safety standards for the design, construction, maintenance, and repair of recreational powerboats and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (“NMMA”). Our powerboats have been certified by the United States Coast Guard and the Canadian Coast Guard, meet the ABYC safety standards and have received CE marking indicating their conformity with health, safety, and environmental protection standards within the European Economic Area. Loss of any of these certifications or failure to obtain them for future products could have a material adverse effect on our business and operating results.

 

We intend to rely on a third-party for the manufacture of what we envision will become our principal product.

 

If we are able to commercialize our E-Motion™ electric powertrain, we intend to use a third-party to mass produce our powertrains. In October 2021, we entered into a Manufacture and Supply Agreement with Linamar Corporation, a provider of manufacturing solutions and a developer of highly engineered products. Under the terms of the agreement, we intend for McLaren Engineering, Linamar’s technology and product development team for its advanced mobility segment, to manufacture and assemble our E-Motion™ technology through testing, parts, tooling development, and designing the union assembly for mass production of our electric powertrain at Linamar’s facility in Canada. Once we have scaled up the production of our electric powertrain, we intend for the Linamar Corporation to produce our electric powertrain for mass commercialization. If Linamar Corporation is unable to satisfactorily manufacture our E-Motion™ powertrains, we will be forced to find a new third-party manufacturer or to produce such powertrains inhouse (with our current facilities we believe that we are limited to producing 300 electric powertrains per year in addition to producing 150 boats per year). Any such change in manufacturers could lead to a delay in our ability to deliver on purchase orders or the loss of such purchase orders, which in turn could adversely affect our revenue or the timing of our revenue.

 

 

 

If we are unable to meet the service requirements of our customers, our business will be materially and adversely affected.

 

We do not offer warranties or provide service for our boats and do not intend to offer warranties on our powertrains systems. Instead, the purchasers of our boats and of our powertrains may rely upon the warranties and services of the manufacturers of the components used in our boats and powertrains. As all such warranties are provided by third-party suppliers, the quality and timeliness of such service is outside of our control. Additionally, the terms of such warranties, including the length of time of coverage, and servicing terms, including locations and labor cost, are not uniform. If our purchasers and potential purchasers believe that warranties and servicing capabilities provided by our third-party suppliers are inadequate, the reputation of our brand will suffer and business and prospects could be materially and adversely affected.

 

If we are unable to meet our production and development goals, we may need to change our business plans or the timeline in which we expect to carry them out.

 

Our ability to carry out our business plans depends upon meeting our production and development goals. Delays or failures in meeting these goals could require us to reassess our business plans and the timeline that it will take us to implement those plans. In the past we have not always met our production and development goals. For example, we expected to manufacture approximately 50 powerboats, and begin commercialization of our electric powertrains in calendar 2023, and we will not meet these goals If any such delays or failures were to cause a material change to our proposed business plans, such change could result materially adverse changes in our projected revenues or expenses.

 

We may not succeed in establishing, maintaining and strengthening the Vision Marine brand, which could materially and adversely affect customer acceptance of our boats and components and our business, revenues and prospects.

 

Our business and prospects heavily depend on our ability to develop, maintain and strengthen the Vision Marine brand and the brands of our powerboat models. Any failure to develop, maintain and strengthen these brands may materially and adversely affect our ability to sell our products. If we are not able to establish, maintain and strengthen our brands, we may lose the opportunity to build our customer base. We expect that our ability to develop, maintain and strengthen the Vision Marine brand will also depend heavily on the success of our marketing efforts. To further promote our brand, we may be required to change our marketing practices, which could result in substantially increased advertising expenses, including the need to use traditional media such as television, radio and print. Many of our current and potential competitors have greater name recognition, broader customer relationships and substantially greater marketing resources than we do. If we do not develop and maintain strong brands, our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results will be materially and adversely impacted.

 

Increases in costs, disruption of supply or shortage of raw materials, in particular lithium-ion cells, could harm our business.

 

Although we do not materially use raw materials in the production of our electronic powerboats, we purchase the necessary parts and components for our boats from third-party suppliers that do. Were those third-party suppliers to experience increases in the cost or a sustained interruption in the supply or shortage of raw materials, the corresponding parts and components could become more costly or less available (if still available at all). For example, our supply chain has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic as some of our third-party suppliers have experienced delays in delivering parts and components for our products. We are particularly exposed to a supply-chain risk as we have not contractually secured long-term supply commitments at fixed prices with our third-party suppliers. The prices for these raw materials fluctuate depending on market conditions and global demand for these materials and price fluctuations and material shortages could adversely affect our business and operating results. For instance, we are exposed to multiple risks relating to price fluctuations for lithium-ion cells. These risks include:

 

the inability or unwillingness of current battery manufacturers to build or operate battery cell manufacturing plants to supply the numbers of lithium-ion cells required to meet demand;
disruption in the supply of cells due to quality issues or recalls by the battery cell manufacturers; and
an increase in the cost of raw materials, such as cobalt, used in lithium-ion cells.

 

 

 

Our business depends on the continued supply of battery cells for our boats. We do not currently have any agreements for the supply of batteries and depend upon the open market for their procurement. Any disruption in the supply of battery cells from our supplier could temporarily disrupt the planned production of our boats until such time as a different supplier is fully qualified. Moreover, battery cell manufacturers may choose to refuse to supply electric boat manufacturers to the extent they determine that the boats are not sufficiently safe. Furthermore, current fluctuations or shortages in petroleum and other economic conditions may cause us to experience significant increases in freight charges and raw material costs. Substantial increases in the prices for our raw materials would increase our operating costs and could reduce our margins if we cannot recoup the increased costs through increased electric boat prices. We might not be able to recoup increasing costs of raw materials by increasing boat prices. We publish the price for the base model of our powerboats. However, any attempts to increase the published prices in response to increased raw material costs could be viewed negatively by our potential customers, result in cancellations of orders and could materially adversely affect our brand, image, business, prospects and operating results.

 

If our suppliers sell us parts or components containing conflict minerals, we may be required at significant expense to find suppliers that do not use conflict minerals.

 

In 2010, Congress passed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (“Dodd-Frank Act”) requiring the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) to issue rules specifically relating to the use of “Conflict Minerals” within manufactured products. Conflict Minerals are currently defined by U.S. Law as tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold (also known as “3TG”) and related derivatives. Within a year of becoming a public company, the SEC rules require any SEC registrant whose commercial products contain any 3TG (“3TG Product”) to determine whether the 3TG in the 3TG Product originated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (“DRC”) or adjoining countries (collectively, the “DRC Region”) and, if so, whether the 3TG is “conflict free”. “3TG Conflict Free” means that the supply chain is transparent and the 3TG in 3TG Products does not directly or indirectly benefit armed groups responsible for serious human rights abuses in the DRC Region. By enacting this provision, Congress intends to further the humanitarian goal of ending the extremely violent conflict in the DRC Region, which has been partially financed by the exploitation and trade of 3TG originating in the DRC Region.

 

We will need to expend time and money on determining whether our products contain conflict minerals. If our suppliers use conflict minerals in the production of the parts and components that we purchase from them, we may need to find alternative suppliers. If possible, this may only be possible at significant expense or with material delays in production.

 

Our software to control our electric powertrain systems contains “open source” software, and any failure to comply with the terms of one or more of these open-source licenses could negatively affect our business.

 

We use software to control our electric powertrain systems that relies upon “open source” licenses and intend to use such software in the future. Although we do not believe that the open source code we have used imposes any limitations on the use of the software that we have developed, the terms of many open source licenses have not been interpreted by United States or other courts, and there is a risk that these licenses could be construed in a manner that could impose unanticipated conditions or restrictions on our ability to commercialize our solutions including requirements that we make available source code for modifications or derivative works we create based upon the open source software or license such modifications or derivative works. In addition to risks related to license requirements, usage of open-source software can lead to greater risks than use of third-party commercial software, as open-source licensors generally do not provide warranties or controls on origin of the software. We cannot be sure that all open source is submitted for approval prior to use in our solutions. In addition, many of the risks associated with use of open source cannot be eliminated, and could, if not properly addressed, negatively affect the performance of our electric powertrains and our business.

 

 

 

We rely on network and information systems and other technologies for our business activities and certain events, such as computer hackings, viruses or other destructive or disruptive software or activities may disrupt our operations, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Network and information systems and other technologies are important to our business activities and operations. Network and information systems-related events, such as computer hackings, cyber threats, security breaches, viruses, or other destructive or disruptive software, process breakdowns or malicious or other activities could result in a disruption of our services and operations or improper disclosure of personal data or confidential information, which could damage our reputation and require us to expend resources to remedy any such breaches. Moreover, the amount and scope of insurance we maintain against losses resulting from any such events or security breaches may not be sufficient to cover our losses or otherwise adequately compensate us for any disruptions to our businesses that may result, and the occurrence of any such events or security breaches could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. The risk of these systems-related events and security breaches occurring has intensified, in part because we maintain certain information necessary to conduct our businesses in digital form stored on cloud servers. While we develop and maintain systems seeking to prevent systems-related events and security breaches from occurring, the development and maintenance of these systems is costly and requires ongoing monitoring and updating as technologies change and efforts to overcome security measures become more sophisticated. Despite these efforts, there can be no assurance that disruptions and security breaches will not occur in the future. Moreover, we may provide certain confidential, proprietary and personal information to third parties in connection with our businesses, and while we obtain assurances that these third parties will protect this information, there is a risk that this information may be compromised. The occurrence of any of such network or information systems-related events or security breaches could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

If the governmental grants and tax credits that we receive were to be no longer available, our net earnings would be materially reduced.

 

We receive governmental benefits in connection with our operations. In connection with the production of our powerboats and our research into green technology, we have been able to receive tax credits and grants provided by the Quebec provincial government and the Canadian federal government. In our 2023, 2022, and 2021 fiscal years, we recognized grants and investment tax credits amounting to $232,882, $1,458,632, and $921,658, respectively, of which $144,032, $1,408,840, and $859,516, respectively, is presented against research and development expenses. We intend to continue applying for such grants and receiving such tax credits. Without such grants and tax credits, our net loss in each of the past two fiscal years would have been larger. If they were no longer available, our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results could be adversely affected.

 

The unavailability, reduction or elimination of government economic incentives could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, operating results and prospects.

 

Although we are unaware of substantial governmental economic incentives, such as tax credits and rebates, that customers may receive in connection with the purchase of our products, there are certain governmental regulations whose repeal could affect the desirability of our powerboats. In particular, local and regional restrictions of internal combustion engines on certain waterways, make electric boats an attractive alternative for use in such lakes and rivers. Any reduction, elimination or discriminatory application of such rules because of policy changes or other reasons may result in the diminished competitiveness of electric boats generally. This could materially and adversely affect the growth of our market and our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results.

 

If we fail to manage future growth effectively, we may not be able to market or sell our powerboats or powertrains successfully.

 

Any failure to manage our growth effectively could materially and adversely affect our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition. We plan to expand our operations in the near future. Our future operating results depend to a large extent on our ability to manage this expansion and growth successfully. Risks that we face in undertaking this expansion include:

 

training new personnel;
forecasting production and revenue;
expanding our marketing efforts, including the marketing of a new powertrain that we use;
controlling expenses and investments in anticipation of expanded operations;
establishing or expanding design, manufacturing, sales and service facilities;
implementing and enhancing administrative infrastructure, systems and processes; and
addressing new markets.

 

 

 

We intend to continue to hire a number of additional personnel, including design and manufacturing personnel and service technicians for our electric boats and powertrains. Competition for individuals with experience designing, manufacturing and servicing electric boats is intense, and we may not be able to attract, assimilate, train or retain additional highly qualified personnel in the future. The failure to attract, integrate, train, motivate and retain these additional employees could seriously harm our business and prospects.

 

Our business may be adversely affected by labor and union activities.

 

None of our employees are currently represented by a labor union. It is common in Quebec for employees of manufacturers of a certain size to belong to a union. Although we do not believe that we are currently of a size where our employees will unionize, were they to do so now or in the future, we would be at risk for higher employee costs and increased risk of work stoppages. We also directly and indirectly depend upon other companies with unionized work forces, such as parts suppliers and trucking and freight companies, and work stoppages or strikes organized by such unions could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition or operating results. If a work stoppage occurs among our key suppliers or our network of distributors, it could materially reduce the manufacture and sale of our boats and have a material adverse effect on our business, prospects, operating results or financial condition.

 

Our ability to meet our manufacturing workforce needs is crucial to our results of operations and future sales and profitability.

 

We rely on the existence of an available hourly workforce to manufacture our products. We cannot assure you that we will be able to attract and retain qualified employees to meet current or future manufacturing needs at a reasonable cost, or at all. For instance, the demand for skilled employees has increased recently with the low unemployment rates in the regions where we have manufacturing facilities. Also, although none of our employees are currently covered by collective bargaining agreements, we cannot assure you that our employees will not elect to be represented by labor unions in the future. Additionally, competition for qualified employees could require us to pay higher wages to attract a sufficient number of employees. Significant increases in manufacturing workforce costs could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

We compete with a variety of other activities for consumers’ leisure time.

 

Our powerboats are used for recreational and sport purposes, and demand for our powerboats may be adversely affected by competition from other activities that occupy consumers’ leisure time and by changes in consumer lifestyle, usage pattern or taste. Similarly, an overall decrease in consumer leisure time may reduce consumers’ willingness to purchase and enjoy our products.

 

Product liability, warranty, personal injury, property damage and recall claims may materially affect our financial condition and damage our reputation.

 

We are engaged in a business that exposes us to claims of product liability and warranty claims in the event our products actually or allegedly fail to perform as expected or the use of our products results, or is alleged to result, in property damage, personal injury or death. Our products involve kinetic energy, produce physical motion and are to be used on the water, factors which increase the likelihood of injury or death. Our products contain Lithium-ion batteries, which have been known to catch fire or vent smoke and flame, and chemicals which are known to be, or could later be proved to be, toxic carcinogenic. Any personal injury or wrongful death claim could, even if not justified, prove expensive to contest.

 

We do not provide warranties for our powerboats but instead rely upon the warranties provided by the third-party manufacturers from whom we purchase the components for our powerboats. Although we maintain product and general liability insurance of the types and in the amounts that we believe are customary for the industry, we are not fully insured against all such potential claims. We may experience legal claims in excess of our insurance coverage or claims that are not covered by insurance, either of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. Adverse determination of material product liability and warranty claims made against us could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and harm our reputation. In addition, if any of our products or components in our products are, or are alleged to be, defective, we may be required to participate in a recall of that product or component if the defect or alleged defect relates to safety. Any such recall and other claims could be costly to us and require substantial management attention.

 

 

 

Our intellectual property is not protected through patents or formal copyright registration. As a result, we do not have the full benefit of patent or copyright laws to prevent others from replicating our products, product candidates and brands.

 

Apart from trademark applications that we filed with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office and the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for our logo and the brand name “E-Motion”, we have not protected our intellectual property rights through patents or formal copyright or trademark registration, and we do not currently have any patent applications pending. As we intend to transition into the production of electric powertrains to OEMs, we envision our intellectual property and its security becoming more vital to our future. Until we protect our intellectual property through patent, trademarks and registered copyrights, we may not be able to protect our intellectual property and trade secrets or prevent others from independently developing substantially equivalent proprietary information and techniques or from otherwise gaining access to our intellectual property or trade secrets. In such an instance, our competitors could produce products that are nearly identical to ours resulting in us selling less products or generating less revenue from our sales.

 

Confidentiality agreements with employees and others may not adequately prevent disclosure of trade secrets and other proprietary information.

 

We rely on trade secrets, know-how and technology, which are not protected by patents, to protect the intellectual property behind our electric powertrain and for the construction of our boats. We do not yet use confidentiality agreements with our collaborators, employees, consultants, outside scientific collaborators and sponsored researchers and other advisors to protect our proprietary technology and processes. We intend to use such agreements in the future, but these agreements may not effectively prevent disclosure of confidential information and may not provide an adequate remedy in the event of unauthorized disclosure of confidential information. In addition, others may independently discover trade secrets and proprietary information, and in such cases we could not assert any trade secret rights against such party. Costly and time-consuming litigation could be necessary to enforce and determine the scope of our proprietary rights, and failure to obtain or maintain trade secret protection could adversely affect our competitive business position.

 

Any patent applications that we file may not result in issued patents, which may have a material adverse effect on our ability to prevent others from interfering with our commercialization of our products

 

To date, we have not filed any patent applications, and we might not ever file patent applications. The registration and enforcement of patents involves complex legal and factual questions and the breadth and effectiveness of patented claims is uncertain. If we ever file patent applications in connection with our electric outboard powertrain systems or other matters, we cannot be certain that we will be first to file patent applications on those or other inventions, nor can we be certain that such patent applications will result in issued patents or that any of our issued patents will afford sufficient protection against someone creating competing products, or as a defensive portfolio against a competitor who claims that we are infringing its patents. In addition, patent applications filed in foreign countries are subject to laws, rules and procedures that differ from those of the United States, and thus we cannot be certain that foreign patent applications, if any, will result in issued patents in those foreign jurisdictions or that such patents can be effectively enforced, even if they relate to patents issued in the United States.

 

We have limited registered trademarks for our products and trade names

 

We have submitted applications for registered trademarks for our name and some of our brands, but not all of these applications have been granted. Any pending trademark applications that we filed with a relevant governmental authority for brand names/logos might not be approved as might any such future applications. Failure to obtain such approval could limit our ability to use the brand names/logos in those territories or lead our products to be confused with, and/or tarnished by, competing products. Even if appropriate applications were made and approved, third parties may oppose or otherwise challenge such applications or registrations.

 

 

 

We may need to defend ourselves against patent or trademark infringement claims, which may be time-consuming and would cause us to incur substantial costs.

 

The status of the protection of our intellectual property is unsettled as we do not have any patents, trademarks or registered copyrights and have not applied for the same. Companies, organizations or individuals, including our competitors, may hold or obtain patents, trademarks or other proprietary rights that would prevent, limit or interfere with our ability to make, use, develop, sell or market our powerboats and electric powertrains or use third-party components, which could make it more difficult for us to operate our business. From time to time, we may receive communications from third parties that allege our products or components thereof are covered by their patents or trademarks or other intellectual property rights. Companies holding patents or other intellectual property rights may bring suits alleging infringement of such rights or otherwise assert their rights. If we are determined to have infringed upon a third party’s intellectual property rights, we may be required to do one or more of the following:

 

cease making, using, selling or offering to sell processes, goods or services that incorporate or use the third-party intellectual property;
pay substantial damages;
seek a license from the holder of the infringed intellectual property right, which license may not be available on reasonable terms or at all;
redesign our boats or other goods or services to avoid infringing the third-party intellectual property;
establish and maintain alternative branding for our products and services; or
find-third providers of any part or service that is the subject of the intellectual property claim.

 

In the event of a successful claim of infringement against us and our failure or inability to obtain a license to the infringed technology or other intellectual property right, our business, prospects, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. In addition, any litigation or claims, whether or not valid, could result in substantial costs, negative publicity and diversion of resources and management attention.

 

You may face difficulties in protecting your interests, and your ability to protect your rights through the U.S. federal courts may be limited because we are incorporated under the laws of the Province of Quebec, a substantial portion of our assets are in Canada and the majority of our directors and executive officers reside outside the United States.

 

We are constituted under the laws of the Business Corporations Act (Quebec) (the “Business Corporation Act”), and our executive offices are located outside of the United States in Boisbriand, Quebec. Our officers and the majority of our directors reside outside the United States. In addition, a substantial portion of their assets and our assets are located outside of the United States. As a result, you may have difficulty serving legal process within the United States upon us or any of these persons. You may also have difficulty enforcing, both in and outside of the United States, judgments you may obtain in U.S. courts against us or these persons in any action, including actions based upon the civil liability provisions of U.S. Federal or state securities laws. Furthermore, there is substantial doubt as to the enforceability in Canada against us or against any of our directors and officers who are not residents of the United States, in original actions or in actions for enforcement of judgments of U.S. courts, of liabilities based solely upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal securities laws. In addition, shareholders in Quebec corporations may not have standing to initiate a shareholder derivative action in U.S. federal courts.

 

As a result, our public shareholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests through actions against us, our management, our directors or our major shareholders than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a jurisdiction in the United States.

 

 

 

Global economic conditions could materially adversely impact demand for our products and services.

 

Our operations and performance depend significantly on economic conditions. Global financial conditions continue to be subject to volatility arising from international geopolitical developments and global economic phenomenon, as well as general financial market turbulence, including growing inflationary concerns, resulting in a significant reduction in many major market indices. Uncertainty about global economic conditions could result in

 

customers postponing purchases of our products and services in response to tighter credit, unemployment, negative financial news and/or declines in income or asset values and other macroeconomic factors, which could have a material negative effect on demand for our products and services; and
third-party suppliers being unable to produce parts and components for our products in the same quantity or on the same timeline or being unable to deliver such parts and components as quickly as before or subject to price fluctuations, which could have a material adverse effect on our production or the cost of such production; and

 

accordingly, on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Access to public financing and credit can be negatively affected by the effect of these events on Canadian, U.S. and global credit markets. The health of the global financing and credit markets may affect our ability to obtain equity or debt financing in the future and the terms at which financing or credit is available to us. These instances of volatility and market turmoil could adversely affect our operations and the trading price of our common shares.

 

Our business may be materially affected by the COVID-19 Outbreak

 

The continued novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, including variations from new strains, may disrupt our business and operational plans. These disruptions may include disruptions resulting from (i) shortages of employees, (ii) unavailability of contractors and subcontractors, (iii) interruption of, or price fluctuations in, supplies from third parties upon which we rely, (iv) restrictions that governments impose to address the COVID-19 outbreak, and (v) restrictions that we and our contractors and subcontractors impose to ensure the safety of employees and others. Although we have not noticed any decrease to orders that we would attribute to COVID-19, we believe that COVID-19 is impacting our supply chain by increasing the amount of time between ordering third-party materials needed for our boats and their delivery. Continued delays in our supply chain could adversely impact our production and, in turn, our revenues. Further, it is presently not possible to predict the extent or durations of these disruptions. These disruptions may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Such adverse effect could be rapid and unexpected. These disruptions may severely affect our ability to carry out our business plans for 2024 and 2025.

 

Fluctuations in currency exchange rates may significantly impact our results of operations.

 

Our operations are conducted in the United States and Canada, but approximately 77% of our sales and rentals have occurred in the United States. As a result, we are exposed to an exchange rate risk between U.S. and Canadian dollars. The exchange rates between these currencies in recent years have fluctuated significantly and may continue to do so in the future. In our fiscal 2023, the monthly average exchange rate as published by the Bank of Canada ranged from a high of US1.3700:$1.00 to a low of US$1.3215:$1.00. An appreciation of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar could increase the relative cost of our products outside of Canada, which could lead to decreased sales. Conversely, to the extent that we are required to pay for goods or services in U.S. dollars, the depreciation of the Canadian dollar against the U.S. dollar would increase the cost of such goods and services.

 

We do not hedge our currency exposure and, therefore, we incur currency transaction risk whenever we enter into either a purchase or sale transaction using a currency other than the Canadian dollar. Given the volatility of exchange rates, we might not be able to effectively manage our currency transaction risks, and volatility in currency exchange rates might have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

If we experience material weaknesses or otherwise fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately or timely report our financial condition or results of operations, which may adversely affect investor confidence in us and, as a result, the value of our common shares.

 

As a result of the year-end assessment process for the year ended August 31, 2023, we identified that we did not maintain effective processes and controls over the accounting for and reporting of complex and non-routine transactions. Specifically, we determined that there was a lack of sufficient accounting and finance personnel to enable appropriate level of internal controls within the financial statement close process, including performing in-depth analysis and review of complex accounting matters and non-routine transactions within the timeframes set by us for filing our consolidated financial statements. Because of this deficiency, we concluded there was a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis at August 31, 2023.

 

 

 

If we fail to identify or remediate any current or future material weaknesses in our internal controls over financial reporting, we are unable to conclude that our internal controls over financial reporting are effective or if our independent registered public accounting firm is unable to express an opinion as to the effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting when we are no longer an emerging growth company, investors may lose confidence in the accuracy and completeness of our financial reports and the market price of our common shares could be negatively affected. As a result of such failures, we could also become subject to investigations by Nasdaq, the SEC or other regulatory authorities, and become subject to litigation from investors and shareholders, which could harm our reputation and financial condition or divert financial and management resources from our regular business activities.

 

Our financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis and our financial status creates a substantial doubt whether we will continue as a going concern.

 

Our financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis under which an entity is considered to be able to realize its assets and satisfy its liabilities in the ordinary course of business. Our future operations are dependent upon the identification and successful completion of equity or debt financing and the achievement of profitable operations at an indeterminate time in the future. There can be no assurances that we will be successful in completing an equity or debt financing or in achieving or maintaining profitability. The financial statements do not give effect to any adjustments relating to the carrying values and classification of assets and liabilities that would be necessary should we be unable to continue as a going concern.

 

1.2 Overall Performance

 

Description of Business

 

The Company was incorporated on August 29, 2012, under the laws of the province of Quebec, Canada, and its principal activity is the design, development and manufacturing of electric outboard powertrain systems and electric boats.

 

The head office and principal address of the Company are located at 730 Boulevard du Cure-Boivin, Boisbriand, Quebec, Canada, V7G 2A7.

 

Additional information related to the Company is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

 

Performance Summary

 

The following is a summary of significant events and transactions that occurred during and subsequent to the year ended August 31, 2023:

 

On October 17, 2022 the Company, announced that is has formed a partnership with Nautical Ventures Group as its sole and exclusive distributor of a fully recyclable rotomolded plastic boat (the "Phantom") for the state of Florida, and a non-exclusive distributor dealership agreement for the United States. This agreement includes Nautical Ventures' agreement to purchase a minimum of 50 Phantoms in the first year with a retail value of US$1.5 million.

 

On December 13, 2022, the Company, announced that it has entered into a formal supplier agreement with Groupe Beneteau. The supplier agreement marries the world's first purpose built, fully electric outboard motor and powertrain system, the E-Motion™ 180E under Groupe Beneteau’s brand Four Winns H2e.

 

 

 

On December 15, 2022, the Company announced it has received an initial purchase order from Groupe Beneteau of 25 E-Motion™ 180E outboard and powertrain systems which was executed on November 30, 2022. In addition, at the beginning of each month, Beneteau will provide Vision Marine a quarterly rolling forecast, which shall include additional quantities through a purchase order for the outboard and powertrain systems.

 

On January 27, 2023, the Company announced the closing of its registered direct offering with certain investors for the issuance and sale of 554,253 of its common shares at a price of US$4.21 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$2.3 million. Additionally, Vision Marine issued to the investors in a concurrent private placement, warrants to purchase up to 554,253 common shares, which represented 100% of the number of common shares sold in the registered direct offering. The warrants have an exercise price of US$4.21 per share, are exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date. Roth Capital Partners served as sole placement agent for the transaction. In connection with the registered direct offering and private placement described above, the Company entered into an agreement with an investor for the purchase of an aggregate of 1,187,648 common shares and common share equivalents, and warrants to purchase up to 1,187,648 common shares, on the same terms as the securities sold in the closed offering. As of the date of hereof, such investor has not paid the purchase price for such securities. Accordingly, on January 28, 2023, the Company sent the investor a demand letter requesting that the investor immediately cure its default and deliver or cause to be delivered its subscription amount, as it is legally bound to do. On March 7, 2023, the Company as plaintiff filed a lawsuit against the investor in New York Supreme Court.

 

On January 31, 2023, the Company announced the resignation of Mr. Renaud Cloutier from the Board of Directors for personal reasons.

 

On February 21, 2023, the Company closed on a previously announced registered direct offering with an investor for the issuance and sale of 475,059 of its common shares for a price of US$4.21 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$2 million. Additionally, Vision Marine issued to the investor in a concurrent private placement, warrants to purchase up to 475,059 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants have an exercise price of US$4.21 per share, are exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date. Roth Capital Partners served as sole placement agent for the transaction.

 

On March 2, 2023, the Company announced the appointment of Carter Murray to the board of directors.

 

On March 8, 2023 the Company appointed Mario Saucier to the board of directors.

 

On March 25, 2023, the Company announced the resignation of Alan Gaines as Chairman and Director.

 

On April 4, 2023 the Company announced the appointment of Carter Murray as Chairman of the Company’s board of directors.

 

On April 19, 2023, the Company announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with investors for the issuance and sale of 381,293 of its common shares for a price of US$4.21 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$1.6 million, in a registered direct offering. Additionally, the Company will issue to the investors in a concurrent private placement, warrants to purchase up to 381,293 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants will have an exercise price of US$4.21 per share, will be exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date.

 

On June 14, 2023, the Company announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with investors for the issuance and sale of 493,828 of its common shares for a price of US$4.05 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$2 million, in a registered direct offering. Additionally, the Company will issue to the investors in a concurrent private placement, warrants to purchase up to 493,828 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants have an exercise price of US$4.05 per share, will be exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date.

 

 

 

On August 1, 2023 the Company announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with investors for the issuance and sale of 493,832 of its common shares for a price of $4.05 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$2 million, in a registered direct offering. Additionally, Vision Marine will issue to the investors in a concurrent private placement warrants to purchase up to 493,832 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants will have an exercise price of US$4.05 per share, will be exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date.

 

On September 11, 2023 The Company announced the appointment of Dr. Philippe Couillard as an Independent Director to the Board of Directors, effective immediately. Dr. Couillard brings a wealth of knowledge and a diverse range of experiences to his new role, and he will be instrumental in guiding Vision Marine through its next phase of growth and innovation.

 

On September 18, 2023 the Company announced that it has entered into subscription agreements with investors to purchase an aggregate of 372,870 units, at a purchase price of US$4.05 per unit. The gross proceeds to the Company from the private placement are expected to be approximately US$1.5 million before deducting the placement agent's fees and other estimated offering expenses. Each of the units issued pursuant to the private placement is comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant. Each full warrant will be exercisable six months from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to acquire one additional common share at a price of US$4.05 per common share, subject to adjustments as set forth therein, and will expire three years from the date of issuance.

 

Financings

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued the following shares:

 

During the three and six months ended February 28, 2023, the Company issued an aggregate of 1,029,312 Voting Common Shares and 1,029,312 warrants to purchase Voting Common Shares as part of the financing rounds for a total cash consideration price of $6,025,460, net of transaction costs of $672,817.

 

During the three and nine months ended May 31, 2023, the Company issued a total of 16,305 and 48,915 Voting Common Shares, respectively, to third parties in exchange for marketing services provided to the Company.

 

During the three and nine months ended May 31, 2023, the Company issued nil and 5,057 Voting Common Shares, respectively, upon the exercises of two former employees’ stock options.

 

During the months of March and April 2023, the Company issued a total of 10,870 Voting Common Shares to third parties in exchange of sub-contracting services provided to the Company related to investor relations.

 

On March 22, 2023, the Company issued 49,485 Voting Common Shares to a former director of the Company, as part of the financing rounds, for a total consideration of $285,602.

 

On April 19, 2023, the Company, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with investors for the issuance and sale of 381,293 of its common shares for a price of US$4.21 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$1.6 million, in a registered direct offering. Additionally, the Company will issue to the investors in a concurrent private placement, warrants to purchase up to 381,293 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants will have an exercise price of US$4.21 per share, will be exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date.

 

 

 

On June 14, 2023, the Company announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with investors for the issuance and sale of 493,828 of its common shares for a price of US$4.05 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$2 million, in a registered direct offering. Additionally, the Company will issue to the investors in a concurrent private placement, warrants to purchase up to 493,828 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants will have an exercise price of US$4.05 per share, will be exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date.

 

During the three-months ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued a total of 170,659 Voting Common Shares to third parties in exchange of sub-contracting services provided to the Company related to investor relations and marketing services.

 

During the three months ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued 52,162 Voting Common Shares, respectively, upon the exercises of a former employee’s stock options.

 

During the three months ended August 31, 2023, the Company issued 30,334 Voting Common Shares to directors as part of their board fees.

 

On August 1, 2023 the Company announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with investors for the issuance and sale of 493,832 of its common shares for a price of US$4.05 per share, for gross proceeds of approximately US$2 million, in a registered direct offering. Additionally, Vision Marine will issue to the investors in a concurrent private placement warrants to purchase up to 493,832 common shares, which represents 100% of the number of common shares issued in the registered direct offering. The warrants will have an exercise price of US$4.05 per share, will be exercisable six (6) months following the issuance date and will expire three (3) years following the issuance date.

 

On September 20, 2023 the Company announced that it has entered into subscription agreements with investors to purchase an aggregate of 372,870 units, at a purchase price of US$4.05 per unit. The gross proceeds to the Company from the private placement are expected to be approximately US$1.5 million before deducting the placement agent's fees and other estimated offering expenses. Each of the units issued pursuant to the private placement is comprised of one common share and one common share purchase warrant. Each full warrant will be exercisable six months from the date of issuance and entitle its holder to acquire one additional common share at a price of US$4.05 per common share, subject to adjustments as set forth therein, and will expire three years from the date of issuance.

 

During the months of September, October and November 2023, the Company issued a total of 103,650 Voting Common Shares to third parties in exchange of sub-contracting services provided to the Company related to investor relations and marketing services.

 

Incentive Stock Options

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company granted the following stock options:

 

On November 30, 2022, the Company granted 10,000 options at an exercise price of US$4.51 per share. The stock options will expire 5 years from the grant date.

 

On December 1, 2022, the Company granted 30,500 options at an exercise price of US$4.35 per share. The stock options will expire 5 years from the grant date.

 

On March 2, 2023, an aggregate of 450,000 stock options were cancelled upon the resignations of former Board members and 150,000 stock options, with an exercise price of US$4.21, were granted to a former Board member as part of such former Board member’s severance package.

 

 

 

On March 25, 2023, 425,000 options previously granted to directors and officers of the Company with, at exercise prices ranging from US$7.42 ($8.98) to US$12.50 ($16,29), were cancelled and the Company agreed to issue 255,000 stock options with an exercise price of US $4.21 ($5.78).

 

On April 20, 2023, the Company granted 48,000 options at an exercise price of $5.79 per share. The stock option will expire 5 years from the grant date.

 

1.3 Selected Annual Financial Information

 

  

Year Ended
August 31, 2023

  

Year Ended
August 31, 2022

  

Year Ended
August 31, 2021

 
   $   $   $ 
Revenue   5,651,502    7,350,946    3,513,788 
Gross Profit   1,536,426    3,285,565    1,604,182 
                
Expenses   (22,694,487)   (16,139,007)   (16,612,499)
                
Income/(Loss) before Tax   (21,158,061)   (12,853,442)   (15,008,317)
                
Income Taxes   280,875    (258,343)   (105,590)
                
Total comprehensive income/(loss)   (20,542,229)   (12,802,680)   (14,725,341)
Basic & Diluted Earnings/(Loss) per Share   (2.25)   (1.58)   (2.04)
                
Balance Sheet               
Working Capital Surplus/(Deficit) (1)   3,676,936    8,727,011    18,626,563 
Total Assets   24,046,512    29,100,209    38,801,292 
Total Long-Term Liabilities   7,671,898    2,197,684    2,581,271 

 

(1) Working capital surplus (deficit) is calculated using current assets less current liabilities

 

Selected Quarterly financial information

 

Quarter end  Revenues   Total comprehensive
loss
   Loss per Share 
August 31, 2023   2,120,447    (4,354,706)   (0.41)
May 31, 2023   1,300,100    (3,056,639)   (0.32)
February 28, 2023   831,195    (6,700,505)   (0.77)
November 30, 2022   1,399,760    (6,430,379)   (0.81)
August 31, 2022   3,375,806    (3,740,535)   (0.48)
May 31, 2022   2,014,769    (1,980,083)   (0.24)
February 28, 2022¹   753,520    (3,770,436)   (0.45)
November 30, 2021   1,206,851    (3,311,625)   (0.41)

 

¹ The Company restated its financial results for three months ending February 28, 2022.

 

 

 

1.4 Results of Operations

 

Three months ended August 31, 2023

 

Revenue for the three months ended August 31, 2023 was $2,120,447 (2022: $3,375,806); the decrease of 37% resulted from a decrease in the revenue generated by the Company’s rental operations due to adverse weather experienced in California, USA. The Company’s gross profit decreased to $1,010,475 (2022: $1,390,246) due to the reduction in rental revenue. The following provides an analysis of the sale of electric boats and revenue from rental operations:

 

   Three months ended
August 31, 2023
   Three months ended
August 31, 2022
   Increase/(Decrease) 
Sale of Electric Boats   664,762    1,626,960    (59%)
Rental of electric boats   1,455,685    1,748,846    (17%)
   $2,120,447   $3,375,806    (37%)

 

During the three months ended August 31, 2023, the Company incurred a net loss of $(4,366,137) compared to a net loss of $(3,740,535) for the corresponding prior period. The decrease in net loss was due to decrease in revenue and a decrease in expenses for the three months ended August 31, 2023, decreasing to $5,376,612 (2022: $5,230,742). The largest expense items that are included in expenses for the three months ended August 31, 2023 were:

 

  · Research and development for the three months ended August 31, 2023 was $632,484 (2022: $2,192,615); the decrease was due to the Company moving towards the production of E-Motion, thus reducing research and development costs during the period which was partially offset by the fitting of the Company’s E-Motion powertrains to third party prototypes for testing purposes.

 

  · Office salaries and benefits for three months ended August 31, 2023 increased to $1,289,132 compared to $475,371 for the three months ended August 31, 2022.  The Company has added additional support staff as it scales to complete testing of prototypes.

 

  · Selling and marketing expenses for the three months ended August 31, 2023 increased to $1,710,176 (2022: $763,851) due to an increase in attendance at boat shows and an increase in marketing of the Company’s E-Motion powertrains.

 

  · Professional fees for the three months ended August 31, 2023 increased to $949,889 (2022: $463,760) due to an increase in costs related to media campaigns, a severance payment to a former officer and director and an increase in legal fees.

 

  · Office and general expenses for the three months ended August 31, 2023, decreased to $967,777 (2022: $1,137,916) due to an increase in leasing of motor vehicles and costs related to directors’ and officers’ liability insurance.

 

  · Share-based compensation for the three months ended August 31, 2023 increased to $84,092 (2022: $90,273). The costs include past grants of stock options which are recognised when the stock options are vested. The Company recognises compensation expense for option grants based on the fair value at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model.

 

  ·

Net finance (income)/expenses for the three months ended August 31, 2023 realised a gain of $374,319 (2022: $10,241). This was caused by a gain in debentures and foreign currency of $301,286 (2022: $70,715 loss) due to the fluctuations in the Canadian dollar against the US Dollar, an increase in interest and bank charges, net of interest income, of $139,526 (2022: $121,397), and a gain on the remeasurement of a derivative liability of $442,630 (2022: $nil), related to the issuance of warrants with an exercise price in US dollars while the Company’s functional currency is in Canadian dollars.

 

 

 

 

Year ended August 31, 2023

 

Revenue for the year ended August 31, 2023 was $5,651,502 (2022: $7,350,946); the decrease of 23% resulted from a decrease in revenue from the Company’s boat and rental operations. The Company’s gross profit decreased to $1,536,426 (2022: $3,285,565) due to reductions in boat sales and rental revenue, additional costs of sales for the construction of boats and the provision on the sale of the E-Motion powertrains. The following provides an analysis of the sale of electric boats and revenue from rental operations:

 

  

Year ended
August 31, 2023

   Year ended
August 31, 2022
   Increase/(Decrease) 
Sale of Electric Boats   1,612,699    2,557,086    (37%)
Rental of electric boats   4,038,803    4,793,860    (16%)
   $5,651,502   $7,350,946    (23%)

 

During the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company incurred a net loss of $(20,877,186) compared to a net loss of $(13,111,785) for the corresponding prior period. The increase in comprehensive loss was due to a decrease in revenue and an increase in expenses for the year ended August 31, 2023, increasing to $22,694,487 (2022: $16,139,007). The largest expense items that are included in expenses for the year ended August 31, 2023 were:

 

  · Research and development for the year ended August 31, 2023 was $5,704,912 (2022: $2,242,794); the increase was due to the fitting of the Company’s E-Motion powertrains to third party prototypes for testing purposes. During the year ended August 31, 2023 the Company recorded $144,032 (2022: $1,408,840) in government grants during the period.

 

  ·

Office salaries and benefits for year ended August 31, 2023 increased to $4,014,181 compared to $3,335,799 for the year ended August 31, 2022. The increase was due to share-based payments and the addition of support staff as it scales to complete testing of prototypes.

 

  · Selling and marketing expenses for the year ended August 31, 2023 increased to $3,470,772 (2022: $1,972,306) due to an increase in attendance at boat shows, an increase in marketing of the Company’s E-Motion powertrains and an increase in marketing and promotion of the Company.

 

  ·     Professional fees for the year ended August 31, 2023 increased to $3,764,465 (2022: $3,590,816) due to an increase in costs related to media campaigns, a severance payment to a former officer and director and an increase in legal fees.

 

  · Office and general expenses for the year ended August 31, 2023, increased to $3,100,024 (2022: $1,949,583) due to an increase in leasing of motor vehicles and costs related to directors’ and officers’ liability insurance.

 

  · Share-based compensation for the year ended August 31, 2023 decreased to $1,136,182 (2022: $2,699,481), as the Company granted 88,500 stock options during the year ended August 31, 2023. The costs include past grants of stock options which are recognised when the stock options are vested. The Company recognizes compensation expense for option grants based on the fair value at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model.

 

  ·

Net finance (income)/expenses for the year ended August 31, 2023 realised a gain of $1,604,536 (2022: $223,660 loss). This was caused by a gain in foreign currency of $208,132 (2022: $251,947 gain) due to fluctuations in the Canadian dollar against the US Dollar which was offset by an increase in interest and bank charges of $142,117 (2022: $184,895) due to the Company utilizing its line of credit; which was partially offset by interest income of $113,334 (2022: $379,288) and a gain on the remeasurement of a derivative liability of $2,055,688 (2022: $nil), related to the issuance of warrants with an exercise price in US dollars while the Company’s functional currency is in Canadian dollars. The Company also incurred $719,167 (2022: $nil) in transaction costs related to the various capital raises that was conducted through the year and recorded in net loss.

 

 

 

·The Company impaired its investment in convertible debentures in The Limestone Boat Company due to Limestone announcing that its wholly-owned subsidiaries have filed for voluntary petitions for relief under Chapter 7 of the Bankruptcy Code of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. As a result, the Company has impaired 100% of the value of its investment in Limestone during the year ended August 31, 2023 realising a loss of $2,637,000 (2022: $nil).

 

1.6 Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

The Company’s operations consist of the designing, developing and manufacturing of electric outboard powertrain systems, rental of electric boats and electric boats sales. The Company’s financial success is dependent upon its ability to market and sell its outboard powertrain systems and electric boats; and to raise sufficient working capital to enable the Company to execute its business plan. The Company’s historical capital needs have been met by internally generated cashflow from operations and the support of its shareholders. During the year ended August 31, 2021, the Company raised gross proceeds of US$27,600,000 from its initial public offering onto the Nasdaq and during the year ended August 31, 2023, the Company raised $12,437,523. However, should the Company need further funding, there is no assurance that equity funding will be possible at the times required by the Company. If no funds can be raised and sales of its outboard powertrain systems and electric boats does not produce sufficient net cash flow, then the Company may require a significant curtailing of operations to ensure its survival.

 

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis which assumes that the Company will be able to realize its assets and discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business for the foreseeable future. The Company incurred a loss before tax of $21,158,061 and net loss of $20,877,186 during the year ended August 31, 2023 and has a cash balance and a working capital surplus of $3,359,257 and $3,676,936, respectively, as at August 31, 2023. The Company’s ability to meet its obligations as they fall due and to continue to operate as a going concern is dependent on the continued financial support of the creditors and the shareholders. In the past, the Company has relied on the support of its shareholders to meet its cash requirements. There can be no assurance that funding from this or other sources will be sufficient in the future to continue its operations. Even if the Company is able to obtain new financing, it may not be on commercially reasonable terms or terms that are acceptable to it. Failure to obtain such financing on a timely basis could cause the Company to reduce or terminate its operations.

 

The Company is evaluating several different strategies and is actively pursuing actions that are expected to increase its liquidity position, including, but not limited to, pursuing additional cost savings initiatives and seeking additional financing from both the public and private markets through the issuance of equity securities. However, the Company's management cannot provide assurances that the Company will be successful in accomplishing any of its proposed financing plans. These matters, when considered in aggregate, indicate the existence of a material uncertainty that raises substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for at least 12 months from the issuance of the consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2023.

 

As of November 20, 2023, the Company had 11,649,319 issued and outstanding shares and 15,761,301 on a fully diluted basis.

 

The Company had $3,676,936, of working capital surplus as at August 31, 2023 compared to $8,727,011 working capital surplus as at August 31, 2022. The decrease in working capital surplus during the year ended August 31, 2023 resulted from the cash used in operations of $14,007,923 (2022: $10,996,819); cash used in investing activities of $537,020 (2022: $964,503) resulting from the additions to property and equipment of $938,802 (2022: $1,175,931); which was offset by proceeds from disposal of equipment of $401,782 (2022: $243,630); financing activities provided cash of $12,079,484 (2022: $361,783), caused by the issuance of shares of $12,437,523 (2022: $nil); increase in the Company’s credit facility of $155,000 (2022: $nil) which was offset by the repayment of lease liabilities of $726,893 (2022: $695,749) and the repayment of long term debt of $258,000 (2022: $282,424).

 

 

 

1.7 Capital Resources

 

As at August 31, 2023, the Company had cash of $3,359,257 (August 31, 2022: $5,824,716).

 

As of the date of this MD&A, the Company has no outstanding commitments, other than rent and lease commitments and purchase commitments as disclosed in Note 15 and 28 of the Company’s consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2023. The Company has pledged its future accounts receivable and inventory as security for its credit facility.

 

1.8 Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

The Company has no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

1.9 Transactions with Related Parties

 

Related party balances and transactions

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s related party transactions for the period:

 

   Year ended
August 31, 2023
   Year ended
August 31, 2022
 
   $   $ 
Research and Development        
Mac Engineering, SASU  545,892   666,178 
         
Office salaries and benefits        
Montana Strategies Inc.  29,059   62,462 

 

The Company leases its Boisbriand premises from California Electric Boat Company Inc. with a right-of-use assets as at August 31, 2023 of $1,270,955 [August 31, 2022 – $889,866] and lease liability of $1,395,732 [August 31, 2022 – $971,399].

 

Remuneration of directors and key management of the Company

 

   2023   2022   2021 
   $   $   $ 
Wages  2,447,827   2,324,770   1,299,402 
Share-based payments – capital stock  433,263   -   - 
Share-based payments – stock options  382,196   2,560,031   6,081,900 
   3,263,286   4,884,801   7,381,302 

 

 

 

The amounts due to and from related parties are as follows:

 

   As at May 31,
2023
   As at
August 31,
2022
 
   $   $ 
Share subscription receivable          
9335-1427 Quebec Inc.   25,000    25,000 
Alexandre Mongeon   14,200    14,200 
    39,200    39,200 
           
Current advances to related party          
Alexandre Mongeon   17,323    16,736 
           
Amounts due to related parties included in trade and other payable          
Alexandre Mongeon   19,384    16,000 
Patrick Bobby   13,847    12,308 
Kulwant Sandher   8,654    8,062 
Xavier Montagne   10,454    8,292 
Mac Engineering, SASU   9,935    - 
    62,274    44,662 

 

Advances from related parties are non-interest bearing and have no specified terms of repayment.

 

1.10 Critical Accounting Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities at the date of the financial statements and reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates and judgments are continuously evaluated and are based on management’s experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual outcomes can differ from these estimates. There were no material changes in estimates other than the estimates with regards to the measurement of derivative liabilities. See to notes 4 and 25 to the Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2023.

 

1.11 Changes in Accounting Policies including Initial Adoption

 

See Note 2 of the Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2023. The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements are consistent with those followed in the preparation of the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2022.

 

1.12 Controls and procedures

 

Disclosure controls and procedures

 

The CEO and the CFO have designed disclosure controls and procedures, or have caused them to be designed under their supervision, in order to provide reasonable assurance that:

 

· material information relating to the Company has been made known to them; and
   
· information required to be disclosed in the Company’s filings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation.

 

An evaluation was carried out, under the supervision of the CEO and the CFO, of the design and effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on this evaluation, the CEO and the CFO concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures at August 31, 2023 were not effective to provide reasonable assurance that material information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file with, or submit to, the SEC under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in by the SEC’s rules and regulations, solely due to the presence of a material weakness in internal controls over financial reporting as described below, which management is in the process of remediating.

 

 

 

Internal controls over financial reporting

 

The CEO and the CFO have also designed internal controls over financial reporting or have caused them to be designed under their supervision, in order to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with IFRS.

 

An evaluation was carried out, under the supervision of the CEO and the CFO, of the design and effectiveness of our internal controls over financial reporting, using the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) on Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013 Framework).

 

As a result of the year-end assessment process for the year ended August 31, 2023, we identified that we did not maintain effective processes and controls over the financial statement close process and the accounting for and reporting of complex and non-routine transactions due to a material weakness. Specifically, we determined that there was a lack of sufficient accounting and finance personnel to enable appropriate level of internal controls within the financial statement close process, including performing in-depth analysis and review of complex accounting matters and non-routine transactions within the timeframes set by us for filing our consolidated financial statements. Because of this deficiency, we concluded there was a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis at August 31, 2023.

 

A material weakness is defined as a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our financial statements will not be prevented or detected.

 

To remediate the identified material weakness, management is in the process of hiring additional personnel and designing and implementing revised controls and procedures which management believes will address the material weakness. These controls and procedures include establishing a more comprehensive schedule for management review of financial information and establishing additional review procedures over the accounting for complex and non-routine transactions. As at August 31, 2023, the Company is working on remediating the identified material weakness.

 

Notwithstanding the material weakness, management has concluded that the Company’s consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended August 31, 2023 present fairly, in all material respects, the Company’s financial position, results of operations, changes in equity and cash flows in accordance with IFRS.

 

Changes in internal controls over financial reporting

 

Other than as described above, no changes were made to our internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended August 31, 2023 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

 

1.14 Financial Instruments and risk management

 

See Note 25 to the Company's consolidated financial statements for the year ended August 31, 2023.

 

 

 

1.15 Additional Information

 

HEAD OFFICE

 

730 Boulevard du Cure-Boivin

Boisbriand, QC

J7G 2A7

Tel: (450) 951 - 7009

Email: info@electricboats.ca

 

OFFICERS & DIRECTORS

 

Alexandre Mongeon,

CEO and Director

Patrick Bobby

Director

 

Kulwant Sandher, CPA, CA, BSc (Eng.)

Chief Financial Officer

Carter Murray

Chairman & Director

 

Luisa Ingargiola

Director

 

Mario Saucier

Director

 

Steve P. Barrenechea

Director

 

Dr. Philippe Couillard

Director

CAPITALIZATION

 

(as at November 20, 2023)

 

Shares Authorized: Unlimited

 

Shares Issued: 11,649,319

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

AUDITORS

 

Ernst & Young LLP

Montreal, Quebec

 

LEGAL COUNSEL

 

Dentons US LLP

1221 Avenue of the Americas

New York, New York 10020

 

 

Exhibit 99.3

 

FORM 52-109F1

CERTIFICATION OF ANNUAL FILINGS

FULL CERTIFICATE

 

I, Alexandre Mongeon, Chief Executive Officer of Vision Marine Technologies Inc., certify the following:

 

1. Review: I have reviewed the AIF, if any, annual consolidated financial statements and annual MD&A, including, for greater certainty, all documents and information that are incorporated by reference in the AIF (together, the "annual filings") of Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "issuer") for the financial year ended August 31, 2023.
   
2. No misrepresentations: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the annual filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, for the period covered by the annual filings.
   
3. Fair presentation: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the annual consolidated financial statements together with the other financial information included in the annual filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the annual filings.
   
4. Responsibility: The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as those terms are defined in National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers' Annual and Interim Filings, for the issuer.
   
5. Design: Subject to the limitations, if any, described in paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3, the issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have, as at the financial year end

 

  (a) designed DC&P, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that

 

  (i) material information relating to the issuer is made known to us by others, particularly during the period in which the annual filings are being prepared; and

 

  (ii) information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and

 

  (b) designed ICFR, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer's GAAP.

 

5.1 Control framework: The control framework the issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I used to design the issuer's ICFR is Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of Treadway Commission (COSO).
   
5.2 ICFR – material weakness relating to design: The issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A for each material weakness relating to design existing at the financial year end

 

  (a) a description of the material weakness;

 

  (b) the impact of the material weakness on the issuer's financial reporting and its ICFR; and

 

 

 

  (c) the issuer's current plans, if any, or any actions already undertaken, for remediating the material weakness

 

5.3 N/A

 

6. Evaluation: The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have

 

  (a) evaluated, or caused to be evaluated under our supervision, the effectiveness of the issuer's DC&P at the financial year end and the issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A our conclusions about the effectiveness of DC&P at the financial year end based on that evaluation; and

 

  (b) evaluated, or caused to be evaluated under our supervision, the effectiveness of the issuer's ICFR at the financial year end and the issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A

 

  (i) our conclusions about the effectiveness of ICFR at the financial year end based on that evaluation; and

 

  (ii) for each material weakness relating to operation existing at the financial year end

 

  (A) a description of the material weakness;

 

  (B) the impact of the material weakness on the issuer's financial reporting and its ICFR; and

 

  (C) the issuer's current plans, if any, or any actions already undertaken, for remediating the material weakness.

 

7. Reporting changes in ICFRThe issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A any change in the issuer's ICFR that occurred during the period beginning on September 1, 2022 and ended on August 31, 2023 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer's ICFR.
   
8. Reporting to the issuer's auditors and board of directors or audit committee: The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of ICFR, to the issuer's auditors, and the board of directors or the audit committee of the board of directors any fraud that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the issuer's ICFR.

 

Date: November 27, 2023

 

/s/Alexandre Mongeon  
Alexandre Mongeon  
Chief Executive Officer  

 

 

Exhibit 99.4

 

FORM 52-109F1

CERTIFICATION OF ANNUAL FILINGS

FULL CERTIFICATE

 

I, Kulwant Sandher, Chief Financial Officer of Vision Marine Technologies Inc., certify the following:

 

1. Review: I have reviewed the AIF, if any, annual consolidated financial statements and annual MD&A, including, for greater certainty, all documents and information that are incorporated by reference in the AIF (together, the "annual filings") of Vision Marine Technologies Inc. (the "issuer") for the financial year ended August 31, 2023.
   
2. No misrepresentations: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the annual filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, for the period covered by the annual filings.
   
3. Fair presentation: Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the annual consolidated financial statements together with the other financial information included in the annual filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the annual filings.
   
4. Responsibility: The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as those terms are defined in National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers' Annual and Interim Filings, for the issuer.
   
5. Design: Subject to the limitations, if any, described in paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3, the issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have, as at the financial year end

 

  (a) designed DC&P, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that

 

  (i) material information relating to the issuer is made known to us by others, particularly during the period in which the annual filings are being prepared; and

 

  (ii) information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and

 

  (b) designed ICFR, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer's GAAP.

 

5.1 Control framework: The control framework the issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I used to design the issuer's ICFR is Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of Treadway Commission (COSO).
   
5.2 ICFR – material weakness relating to design: The issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A for each material weakness relating to design existing at the financial year end

 

  (a) a description of the material weakness;

 

  (b) the impact of the material weakness on the issuer's financial reporting and its ICFR; and

 

 

 

  (c) the issuer's current plans, if any, or any actions already undertaken, for remediating the material weakness

 

5.3 N/A

 

6. Evaluation: The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have

 

  (a) evaluated, or caused to be evaluated under our supervision, the effectiveness of the issuer's DC&P at the financial year end and the issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A our conclusions about the effectiveness of DC&P at the financial year end based on that evaluation; and

 

  (b) evaluated, or caused to be evaluated under our supervision, the effectiveness of the issuer's ICFR at the financial year end and the issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A

 

  (i) our conclusions about the effectiveness of ICFR at the financial year end based on that evaluation; and

 

  (ii) for each material weakness relating to operation existing at the financial year end

 

  (A) a description of the material weakness;

 

  (B) the impact of the material weakness on the issuer's financial reporting and its ICFR; and

 

  (C) the issuer's current plans, if any, or any actions already undertaken, for remediating the material weakness.

 

7. Reporting changes in ICFRThe issuer has disclosed in its annual MD&A any change in the issuer's ICFR that occurred during the period beginning on September 1, 2022 and ended on August 31, 2023 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer's ICFR.

 

8. Reporting to the issuer's auditors and board of directors or audit committee: The issuer's other certifying officer(s) and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of ICFR, to the issuer's auditors, and the board of directors or the audit committee of the board of directors any fraud that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the issuer's ICFR.

 

Date: November 27, 2023

 

/s/ Kulwant Sandher  
Kulwant Sandher  
Chief Financial Officer  

 

 


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