STEM Fairs

Where Curiosity Meets Celebration

From local community events to representing Canada on the world stage, STEM fairs provide young people with platforms to share their innovations and discoveries and gain recognition for their innovative thinking.

The STEM Fair Journey

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Canadian students transform their curiosity into action through STEM projects. Our national network of STEM fairs provides the structure and support that turns kitchen-table experiments into confidence-building experiences, and sometimes, international recognition.

The pathway is clear, accessible, and designed to meet students wherever they are in their journey:

Regional Fairs → Canada-Wide Science Fair → International Competitions

But the real value isn’t just about advancing to the next level. It’s about the moment a young person realizes their ideas matter, their questions are worth investigating, and they’re capable of communicating complex concepts to the world.

Regional STEM Fairs: Where It All Begins

Youth Science Canada supports more than 100 affiliated regional STEM fairs across every province and territory. These community-organized events give over 10,000 students each year their first opportunity to present their investigations to engaged judges and celebrate their discoveries publicly.

Regional fairs typically run February through April, with students presenting projects they’ve developed over several months. Top participants are invited to advance to the Canada-Wide Science Fair, but every student gains invaluable experience in scientific communication and critical thinking.

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Canada-Wide Science Fair: Celebrating National Excellence

Approximately 400 of Canada’s top young scientists gather each May for a week-long celebration of innovation and discovery. Selected from regional fairs across all provinces and territories, CWSF finalists compete for over $1.3 million in scholarships and awards while forming connections that often last a lifetime.

Beyond competition, CWSF offers workshops, networking opportunities, and public showcase events that inspire thousands of visiting students. It’s consistently described by participants as one of the most transformative experiences of their youth.

92% of CWSF finalists report increased interest in STEM careers.

Team Canada: Representing Canada Globally

Outstanding CWSF participants earn opportunities to represent Canada at prestigious international STEM competitions including ISEF, EUCYS, MILSET ESI, and other specialized competitions and events worldwide. These experiences provide global perspectives, cultural exchange, and demonstrate that Canadian youth innovation competes with the best in the world.

Getting Started: From Curiosity to Competition

Ready to Begin?

Whether you’re a parent supporting a curious child, an educator guiding students, or a young person ready to investigate your own questions, the adventure starts here:

Develop Your Project – Visit mySTEMspace for free resources, project ideas, and step-by-step guidance
Find Your Regional Fair – Connect with your local STEM fair community
Present Your Discovery – Share your work and see where it takes you

The best STEM projects come from genuine curiosity. Students don’t need expensive equipment or genius-level knowledge. They simply need interesting questions and the willingness to investigate answers.

Beyond Awards: Skills That Last

STEM fairs develop critical thinking, communication abilities, problem-solving skills, and confidence that serve students throughout their lives, regardless of which career path they choose. Students learn that their curiosity is valued, their ideas matter, and they’re capable of investigating meaningful questions.

Powered by ProjectBoard

In partnership with ProjectBoard, we provide a digital platform for students to showcase their STEM projects beyond geographic boundaries. ProjectBoard supports the CWSF and many regional fairs, enabling students to share their work with global audiences, be celebrated internationally, and maintain portfolios of their achievements.

Get Started

For Students

Visit mySTEMspace for free resources, project ideas, and step-by-step guidance

For Educators

Learn how to support young curious minds and connect them with opportunities

For STEM Champions

Discover how to volunteer, judge, or sponsor STEM fair opportunities

Support the Next Generation

The national STEM fair network thrives because of dedicated volunteers, generous sponsors, and supportive communities. Your contribution ensures every Canadian student has access to STEM fair opportunities, regardless of background or location.