Canada’s Largest Youth STEM Event
For over 60 years, the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) has brought together the brightest young minds from across the country to showcase their research and innovations, compete for awards, and connect with peers who share their passion for discovery and innovation. Hosted annually by Youth Science Canada, the CWSF is Canada’s largest annual youth science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) event.
Each year, nearly 400 finalists in grades 7-12/Cégep are selected through a national network of over 100 regional STEM fairs spanning every province and territory. These exceptional students earn the opportunity to represent their region at the CWSF, where they compete for nearly $2 million in prizes, scholarships, and exclusive opportunities.
Our Purpose
The CWSF is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of curiosity, creativity, and the pursuit of knowledge. The fair provides a platform for young scientists to:
- Present original research and innovations to experts, peers, and the public
- Receive recognition for their achievements in STEM
- Connect with like-minded peers from across Canada
- Gain exposure to career opportunities in STEM fields
- Develop communication and presentation skills
- Compete for medals, awards, scholarships, and international opportunities (learn more)
The CWSF Experience
The week-long event includes:
- Project presentations and judging
- Interactive STEM activities and workshops
- Educational tours and social events
- Public exhibition days where thousands of visitors explore student projects
- A prestigious awards ceremony
Participants consistently describe the CWSF as a life-changing experience that fosters lifelong friendships, builds confidence, and opens doors to future opportunities. Beyond the awards and recognition, the CWSF creates a community where young people can embrace their passion for STEM and connect with others who share their enthusiasm for discovery and innovation.
“Even without the awards, it is an experience of a lifetime…not exaggerating…IT IS THE EXPERIENCE OF A LIFETIME. You meet so many people from across Canada…meet every single person you can, leave any shyness behind you, and I promise you will have friends you will keep in touch with forever.” — CWSF Alum
Global Reach
Top projects from the CWSF may be selected to represent Canada at prestigious international competitions, including the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS), the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF), and other global STEM events.
About Youth Science Canada
Youth Science Canada (YSC) is a national charitable organisation dedicated to fuelling the curiosity of Canadian youth through STEM projects. Since 1966, we have been at the forefront of nurturing and showcasing the innovative talents of Canada’s young minds.
Our Vision
We envision a future society rooted in the power of curiosity, community, and STEM skills.
Our Mission
Empowering all Canadian youth to engage their curiosity in discovering and innovating through STEM projects.
Our Impact
- 500,000+ K-12 students in Canada create a STEM project annually
- 20,000+ students showcase a project at regional fairs
- 400 student projects are selected for the Canada-Wide Science Fair
- 100+ regional STEM fairs supported across Canada
- Millions in scholarships and prizes awarded to young scientists
Our Programs
Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF) – Our flagship programme brings together the country’s top young scientists for a week of competition, celebration, and connection. The CWSF is Canada’s largest youth STEM event and showcases the incredible talent and innovation of students in grades 7-12/Cégep.
mySTEMspace – An online platform that supports youth in developing and documenting their STEM projects. mySTEMspace provides resources, tools, and guidance for students at every stage of their STEM project journey.
National STEM Fair Network – We coordinate and support a network of over 100 regional STEM fairs across Canada, ensuring that students nationwide have opportunities to showcase their work and potentially advance to the CWSF.
Team Canada – We select and support Canadian students representing our country at international STEM competitions and events, such as the European Union Contest for Young Scientists (EUCYS) and other global forums.
STEM Expo – Held in conjunction with the CWSF, STEM Expo features interactive exhibits and activities from educational institutions, companies, and organisations, inspiring thousands of visitors annually.
Smarter Science – A framework and resources that help teachers introduce and integrate inquiry-based STEM learning in their classrooms, fostering critical thinking and scientific skills from an early age.
purpleSTEMwave – A national movement that celebrates and unites young Canadians who transform their curiosity into action through STEM projects.
Our Values
- Curiosity – We believe that asking questions is the foundation of discovery and innovation
- Inclusivity – We work to ensure STEM opportunities are accessible to all Canadian youth
- Excellence – We celebrate and encourage high standards in STEM education and projects
- Community – We foster connections amongst young scientists, educators, and STEM professionals
- Innovation – We champion creative approaches to solving real-world problems
Join the purpleSTEMwave
The CWSF is part of the purpleSTEMwave, a national movement that celebrates and unites young Canadians who transform their curiosity into action through STEM projects. By participating in regional STEM fairs and the CWSF, students become part of this vibrant community of young scientists and innovators.
Our History
Since its inception in 1962, the CWSF has evolved to become Canada’s premier youth STEM event. The fair has travelled to communities across Canada, inspiring generations of young scientists and engineers. Many CWSF alumni have gone on to distinguished careers in science, medicine, engineering, and technology, crediting their CWSF experience as a pivotal moment in their academic and professional journeys.
Get Involved
There are many ways to get involved with Youth Science Canada and the Canada-Wide Science Fair:
- Volunteer at regional fairs or the CWSF
- Donate to support our programmes and reach more young scientists
- Participate in regional fairs or other YSC programmes
- Partner with us to promote STEM education
- Connect with us on social media