OTTAWA, July 19, 2021 – Canada-Wide Science Fair, the country’s largest annual youth science, technology, engineering and mathematics event, will return to the virtual format from May 16 to May 20, 2022. Following the impressive results of its first all-virtual event, held in May, organizers confirmed today that the 2022 edition will feature expanded components such as STEM Expo, Virtual Project Zone and CWSF-TV, but also new programming related to Fredericton and New Brunswick, the host city and province, and an emphasis on the history of the fair.

“We have a lot to celebrate,” says Reni Barlow, executive director of Youth Science Canada. “The 60th edition is a time to commemorate our achievements while, at the same time, maintaining our focus on the future. We opted for the virtual format to make sure all of our partners, sponsors, staff and volunteers had ample time to focus on the event and the activities that will ultimately benefit our participants.”

Due to unknown restrictions on travel, accommodations and event logistics, as well as the time required for participants and organizers to make all necessary arrangements, the decision was unanimously made by the YSC staff and endorsed by the board. The organization is planning for a hybrid fair in Edmonton in 2023 with virtual elements to welcome visitors from across Canada.

The decision to host CWSF virtually in 2022 will also allow many regions that did not run a regional science fair in 2021 to resume fundraising to be able to send finalists to the CWSF hybrid fair in 2023.

The 2021 edition of Canada-Wide Science Fair attracted more than 51,000 pre-registered visitors, 337 projects by 374 grade 7-12/Cégep finalists and 188 award winners who shared scholarships, cash awards and prizes totaling nearly $900,000.

“We wholeheartedly believe that STEM-based projects are a critical component of our education system and a positive force in our society,” says Barlow. “Whatever challenges come our way, we owe it to our youth to show them that we can overcome adversity together, with faith in each other. Now that we’ve confirmed the format, we’re ready to build an even better program in 2022.”

Fredericton, New Brunswick, last hosted Canada-Wide Science Fair in 2019, in the physical format. That event attracted some 9,000 visitors.

As in previous years, finalists from Canada’s more than 100 regional fairs will be invited to showcase their award-winning projects in the Project Zone. Returning for a fifth year, STEM Expo is expected to feature more than 70 virtual exhibits from post-secondary institutions, agencies, companies, museums, and other youth STEM related organizations.

Youth Science Canada exists to enable Canadian youth to investigate scientific questions and develop innovative solutions related to current and future challenges. Every year, roughly half a million K-12 students in Canada create a STEM project. During the months of March and April, more than 20,000 students showcase their projects at regional fairs in every province and territory.

Additional details on the fair including key events will be announced in early 2022.

About Youth Science Canada
Youth Science Canada fuels the curiosity of Canadian youth through STEM projects. A registered charity incorporated in 1962, YSC delivers on its mission through national programs including mySTEMspace, the National STEM Fair Network, Canada-Wide Science Fair, STEM Expo, Team Canada representation at international youth STEM competitions and events, and Smarter Science professional development for teachers. Through these programs, YSC provides direct support to the more than 500,000 students who do STEM projects in any given year. For more information, visit youthscience.ca.

For more information:
Samiha Fariha
Torchia Communications
Cell: (647) 268-6687
[email protected]