Future Innovators Take Centre Stage at CWSF 2026
EDMONTON, CANADA — The Canada-Wide Science Fair 2026 concluded after eight inspiring days of scientific discovery, creativity, and the energy of hundreds of young researchers gathered in Edmonton, Alberta.
Organised by Youth Science Canada, an official member of MILSET North America (MILSET NORAM), the fair once again highlighted the strength of youth-led science and the importance of providing meaningful platforms where young people can present ideas, exchange knowledge, and connect with the wider scientific community.
This year’s edition welcomed 390 youth finalists, who presented 344 original STEM projects at the Edmonton EXPO Centre. Their participation marked the culmination of a national journey that began with approximately 500,000 students developing projects in classrooms and communities across Canada. From there, around 10,000 advanced to nearly 100 regional fairs, with only 390 selected to represent the nation at the final stage.
The scale of CWSF 2026 extended well beyond the competition floor. More than 8,000 visiting school students explored the public exhibition and STEM Expo, where 52 exhibitors showcased educational programmes, technologies, research opportunities, and interactive scientific activities. An estimated 18,000 individual interactions took place between visitors and projects, while over 250 volunteer judges conducted more than 3,200 interviews, giving finalists the chance to defend their research, communicate findings, and receive valuable feedback from experts.
Approximately CAD $2 million in awards and scholarships recognised outstanding achievement and supported participants’ future educational journeys. Yet the impact of the fair was not confined to prizes. Opening and awards ceremonies, public exhibitions, project presentations, interactive activities, and social events created a week of memorable experiences. For many finalists, entering a hall filled with hundreds of projects and like-minded peers proved a defining moment in their scientific journey.
As part of the MILSET NORAM community, Youth Science Canada contributes to a broader regional network linking science fairs, educational organisations, and youth initiatives across Canada, the Caribbean, and the United States. This collaboration fosters the exchange of good practices and expands opportunities for young researchers.
CWSF 2026 demonstrated that when communities, educators, volunteers, institutions, and families unite around young people, curiosity can grow into meaningful research and lasting impact.
Although the Edmonton edition has drawn to a close, the journey continues. Some participants will represent Canada at international competitions, while the next generation of young researchers is already developing the ideas that may take them to CWSF 2027 in Hamilton, Ontario.
