Background

Canada saw its first science fairs in 1959 when Winnipeg, Edmonton, Hamilton, Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver all hosted fairs. Two years later the volunteers formed the Canadian Science Fairs Council to coordinate efforts and share ideas for success. In 1966, the Council was replaced by the Youth Science Foundation. It's purposes went beyond science fairs, to support scientists and teachers, coordinate extra-curricular activities in science and technology, and promote a better understanding of the role of these fields in national and international affairs. In 1995 the organization changed its name to Youth Science Foundation Canada and in 2008 to Youth Science Canada.

Many organizations are engaged in the challenge to interest youth in science and technology. Only Youth Science Canada, however, has nearly 50 years of experience to its credit, and a network of thousands of dedicated volunteers working from coast to coast to coast.