The Ontario government is investing more than $8.9 million in Science North to support the 2021-22 operations, develop exhibits and online content, perform maintenance and repairs, and deliver learning supports for students and teachers. These investments will help sustain operations, protect jobs, and support short and long-term recovery planning following the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Details were provided today by Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries, during an announcement alongside Guy Labine, CEO of Science North.
“Like many of Ontario’s agencies and attractions, Science North has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Minister MacLeod. “That’s why our government is investing to support one of Northern Ontario’s most valued tourism and cultural institutions as it adapts and responds to new realities. This support will ensure Science North can get back to doing what it does best – providing safe and fun education experiences for families from across Ontario. I encourage everyone to safely visit Science North to learn about the wonderful world of science and celebrate our province’s heritage and ingenuity.”
Science North will receive:
- Over $6.8 million operating and administration funding
- $850,000 in much-needed capital funding to support critical infrastructure upgrades to programming space, habitats and exhibits
- $150,000 through the Ontario Cultural Attractions fund to help develop and promote “Honouring Indigenous Ingenuity,” a travelling exhibit with events and programming that will highlight the innovations and history of Canada’s Indigenous culture through the lens of science and technology
- More than $55,000 for the Summer Experience Program, which delivers English and French summer science camp experiences to children in communities across Ontario.
The Ministry of Education has also allocated $1.1 million to Science North to provide summer programming in July and August to support learning recovery and renewal, including for students who require additional support across Northern Ontario. This will support students to continue to develop their Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) skills as they prepare for the next school year. Funding has also supported Science North to create made-in-Ontario videos and resources to support STEM in elementary school learning and teaching. Resources can be accessed on the Science North website.