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Science North receives C$16m to fund eight new projects

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Science North joins over 300 institutions worldwide to celebrate International Science Centre and Science Museum Day

Science North has received C$16m ($12.4m) in funding from the government of Ontario to support a range of projects that are part of the organisation’s recently launched strategic plan.

The government funding has been referred to by Science North as an “historic” amount. It will be used to deliver on the five key strategic priorities and 15 goals in its 2018-2023 Strategic Plan.

Specifically, the money will be used to fund eight key projects:

  • Producing the new Vale Chasm show that will transport visitors on a seasonal journey to experience northern Ontario’s dramatic natural landscapes, people, creatures and signature sites. A customised version of the experience will also be installed in other attractions in the region.
  • A major renewal of 50% of the science centre’s fourth level that will transform it into a THINK Hub where visitors can collaborate with the centre’s science team to tinker, hack, innovate, network and know.
  • Creating two new Object Theatre multimedia experiences to immerse visitors in current science topics including the challenges and opportunities of climate change and the mysteries of the universe.
  • An expansion of the Dynamic Earth centre including the underground experience to create new drifts that showcase modern mining and innovation, as well as a new underground theatre and multipurpose space, and new exhibit experiences.
  • The construction of a new outdoor pavilion on the grounds of Science North that will open in June 2019. The new pavilion will support expanded programming and generate revenue from functions and events to support Science North’s financial sustainability.
  • Capital upgrades to create impressive surroundings for visitors at both Science North and Dynamic Earth. Visitors will be welcomed by an iconic and engaging new experience in the Science North lobby and enhanced grounds at both sites.
  • The production of a new signature Imax 3D film telling success stories in animal conservation.
  • Increasing the amount of science experiences across northwestern Ontario, including the expansion of the Thunder Bay office.

The implementation of these projects is expected to create jobs and provide more than C$27m ($21m) in economic benefits for northern Ontario. Science North claims that the benefits will be long lasting as the experiences will drive tourism, attract new audiences, encourage repeat visitation and extend travellers’ length of stay in communities across the region.

Guy Labine, CEO of Science North, said: “This is wonderful news for our audiences throughout the North, in our community and at Science North and Dynamic Earth. Our team is driven to deliver exceptional science experiences and programmes to our audiences, and the next five years will be exciting. We appreciate the confidence in our entire organisation.”

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Sam McCaffrey

Journalist. Likes immersive entertainment experiences, museums, zoos and the odd go on a Waltzer.

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