Making innovation and science accessible for all ages in Northern Ontario

News release

Government of Canada invests $1.6 million to modernize Science North and establish six regional THINK hubs

June 29, 2018 – Sudbury – Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario - FedNor

Northern Ontario families will benefit from improved access to science and technology learning resources thanks to a Government of Canada investment of $1,672,950. The FedNor funding will enable Science North to modernize the fourth floor of the science centre, which includes major upgrades such as the development of the highly-anticipated Tinker, Hack, Innovate, Network and Know (THINK) exhibits. This targeted investment will also be used to support regional outreach activities by establishing THINK hubs in six Northern Ontario communities including Timmins, North Bay, Kenora, Thunder Bay, Sault Ste. Marie and Fort Frances.

Paul Lefebvre, Member of Parliament for Sudbury, made the announcement today on behalf of the Honourable Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Minister responsible for FedNor.

The investment is helping to support the evolution Science North, Northern Ontario’s premier tourism attraction, with infrastructure and technology upgrades such as developing an Innovate & Prototype Lab as well as new THINK exhibits, challenges, programs and spaces designed to engage people in hands-on experiences with real tools, materials and processes. This strategic initiative will also include establishing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) exhibits and creating specialized programming spaces that feature state-of-the-art technology and equipment to personalize Science North’s tourism experience.

Quotes

“Today’s announcement will help boost tourism across Northern Ontario, while encouraging young Canadians to embrace science and technology at an early age. This strategic investment supports the Government of Canada’s tourism strategy and Innovation and Skills Plans by attracting tourists to the region and inspiring future generations to pursue opportunities and careers in these exciting fields.”

- Paul Lefebvre, Member of Parliament for Sudbury 

“I’m pleased to be part of a government that is helping pave the way for a Canadian scientist or innovator to make the world a better place. By investing to modernize Northern Ontario’s premier tourism attraction, our government is helping Science North deliver a positive tourism experience that will engage visitors of all ages in a fun and meaningful way.”

- Marc Serré, Member of Parliament for Nickel Belt 

“Science North is proud to partner with FedNor and the Government of Canada to ensure tourism, technology and the sciences can continue to thrive in Northern Ontario. I’m pleased that the federal government recognizes the social, educational and economic importance of Science North and is investing to support its evolution.”    

- Guy Labine, Chief Executive Officer, Science North

Quick facts

  • The funding announced today is provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation throughout the region.

  • The recently released Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario outlines the Government of Canada’s approach to ensure the region can fully benefit from the national Innovation and Skills Plan. It is focused on three key economic development areas: supporting innovation; growing companies; and building stronger communities.

  • Budget 2018 provided an additional $511 million over five years to the regional development agencies to support the national Innovation and Skills Plan. As part of this total, FedNor is being allocated $28 million over five years. This is in addition to the $25 million over five years it received in Budget 2017.

  • Science North is located in the City of Greater Sudbury and has been a centre for science education, entertainment experiences and a premier tourist attraction in Northern Ontario since 1984. Science North also features Dynamic Earth (earth sciences centre), interpretive and natural science exhibits, as well as museum artifacts and an IMAX theatre.

Associated links

Contacts

Barclay Babcock
Communications Officer
FedNor
705-690-0957
barclay.babcock@canada.ca

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