Local MPs Paul Lefebvre and Marc Serré visited Science North on April 17 to make a significant funding announcement that will help the science centre take one of its exhibits around the northern part of the province.
A FedNor funding announcement in the amount of $350,000 will enable Science North to develop and tour a customized version of its Beyond Human Limits travelling exhibit and create new economic opportunities across Northern Ontario.
"Tourism is a major economic driver for Northern Ontario and I'm proud that the Government of Canada is investing in Science North to support this key sector of our economy," said Lefebvre. "Today's announcement helps to demonstrate how our Prosperity and Growth Strategy for Northern Ontario is enabling communities to respond to opportunities that create jobs and growth here at home in Sudbury and across the region."
Beyond Human Limits is a high-energy exhibit that highlights the stories, experiences and motivation of extreme athletes through numerous interactive and hands-on displays. This strategic investment will enable Science North to develop and exhibit Beyond Human Limits during the summer of 2019 in various communities across the region in venues such as the Thunder Bay Museum, Kenora Discovery Centre, Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, Science Timmins and North Bay Discovery Museum.
During its 2019 summer tour of the region, Science North anticipates more than 18,000 visitors will experience Beyond Human Limits, leading to increased local spending, new tourism opportunities and access to exciting, new science experiences for residents.
“The Government of Canada is proud to invest in strategic initiatives that create middle-class jobs, boost tourism, and enhance business development and growth in Northern Ontario communities," said Marc Serré.
"This investment in Science North will help create a positive tourism experience that will engage visitors, create new business opportunities and support future growth and sustainability.”
The funding announced was provided through FedNor’s Northern Ontario Development Program, which supports projects that promote sustainable community economic development, enhance business development and growth, and facilitate innovation.
“As Canada’s second-largest science centre and largest tourism asset to Northern Ontario, it is crucial that Science North continually offer changing visitor experiences that engage new and repeat audiences and support tourism in communities across Northern Ontario," said Science North board chair Scott Lund.
"This investment by the Government of Canada will help Science North expand its reach and depth of engagement with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, including youth, women and Indigenous audiences, in communities across Northern Ontario.”
