YSTEM: Youth in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics – Backgrounder

Since August 2009, the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario) has been dedicated to revitalizing and renewing the economy of the region.

FedDev Ontario's Youth STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) initiative will address southern Ontario's future labour needs and strengthen our position in the knowledge-based economy by encouraging young people to pursue an education or career in the STEM fields.

Youth STEM will support not-for-profit organizations to expand, enhance and coordinate the reach and impact of their current educational STEM outreach programs.

Eligible activities that will be supported under the initiative include:

• The development, enhancement and delivery of learning activities (e.g., workshops, demonstrations, science fairs, competitions, mentorships, enrichment programs or camps and early learning activities);
• Collaborative activities with other outreach organizations with the aim of coordinating and focusing efforts and broadening the impact of existing programs in southern Ontario; and,
• Other activities to broaden the impact and reach of programs in southern Ontario.

Contributions under this initiative are not expected to exceed $2 million over four years per eligible applicant. All project activities must be completed by March 31, 2014.

If you are interested in expanding your programming and would like more information about Youth STEM or would like to submit an application, visit FedDev Ontario online at: www.feddevontario.gc.ca