Feds provide $20M to build science centre in Thunder Bay

Officials from Science North] in Sudbury were on hand Wednesday when the federal government announced it is giving up to $20 million for a science centre in Thunder Bay. (Photo from video)

The federal government announced Wednesday it is giving up to $20 million for a science centre in Thunder Bay.

The fund, through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings program, was announced by Indigenous Services Minister Patty Hajdu in Thunder Bay.

Hajdu was joined by Science North CEO Ashley Larose and James Lundrigan, chair of the board of trustees for Science North.

“This project will support a net-zero science centre attraction in Thunder Bay, designed to the Canadian Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building Standard (V4) and provide accessible community services to 67,500 people annually, including populations experiencing higher needs,” a news release on the project said.

“The centre will offer high-quality cultural, recreational, and science-based experiences developed through extensive consultation with Indigenous communities, leaders, and advisors. The centre will also use green energy, including a heating and cooling system that uses geothermal power from Lake Superior.”

Part of waterfront

Hadju, who is also MP for the city, said the facility would be part of the new waterfront facility in Thunder Bay.

“This world-class attraction will not only inspire curiosity and innovation but also draw new talent, tourism, and economic opportunity to our region,” she is quoted as saying in the release.

“By supporting hands-on science education and integrating Indigenous knowledge, we are building a space that reflects the diversity and brilliance of northwestern Ontario. This investment is about more than just a building—it’s about creating opportunities for learning, jobs, and community growth for generations to come.”

Larose said the announcement was a “critical milestone” in bring a science centre to the northwest.

“We are excited to take this important step forward, ensuring that Thunder Bay and the broader region will soon have an accessible, net-zero facility designed to inspire learning, discovery, and innovation for generations to come,” she said.

The release said the “funding is subject to the negotiation and signing of a contribution agreement between the Government of Canada and the recipient.”