Youth-for-Youth (Y4Y) Innovation Program

A group of youth girls playing with Lego blocks.

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
RBC Foundation

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.


Apply Now


All interested participants must apply by Monday, June 8, 2026.

Applications will be reviewed for eligibility. If the number of eligible applicants exceeds the available spots, participants will be selected through a lottery process. Applicants will hear from us no later than June 12th if they are able to participate.

An information session will be held in June for parents, guardians and participants to learn more about the program and what to expect. At this time, participants will be asked to complete a more detailed registration form.

Please see the Y4Y Information Package for additional details, including answers to frequently asked questions.