Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program
About the Youth-for Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program
The Ontario Science Centre’s Youth‑for‑Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program is a free two‑week summer experience for youth ages 12–14 from the Flemingdon Park and Thorncliffe Park neighbourhoods who want to explore STEM in fun, meaningful ways. Through hands‑on activities, interactive workshops and collaborative projects, participants discover how science connects to the world around them—while building confidence, creativity and a sense of belonging in STEM.
Working in teams with support from youth mentors and Science Centre staff, participants tackle real‑world challenges that effect their local communities and present their ideas to peers and professionals—an inspiring first step toward future academic and career paths in STEM.
Lead Sponsor
The Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program is offered at no cost to participants thanks to the generous support of our Lead Sponsor, RBC Foundation.
Program Dates
- Session 1: Monday, July 6 – Thursday, July 16
- Session 2: Monday, July 20 – Thursday, July 30
- Session 3: Tuesday, August 4 – Friday, August 14*
*No session on Monday August 3 due to Civic Holiday.
Program Location
Centennial College
Ashtonbee Campus
75 Ashtonbee Road
Scarborough, ON
M1L 4C9
Participants will also visit the Ontario Science Centre, located at 235 Queens Quay West, and will receive a stipend for transportation costs.
The initial application window closed on Monday, June 8, 2026. Applicants who submitted their application before this date will receive an update on their status by Friday, June 12, 2026.
The application form will remain open while any spots remain to be filled. Applications submitted after June 8 will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants will be notified if space becomes available in a summer cohort.
Please see the Y4Y Information Package for additional details, including answers to frequently asked questions.