Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development
March 27, 2015

Inspiring Youth Through Strategic Investments

Provincial Government Invites Proposals for Youth Innovation Projects

The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is encouraging young people to engage in the areas of science, engineering and technology by providing funding for innovative projects. Through the Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development, the Provincial Government has announced the 2015 Youth Innovation Call for Proposals.

"Through the Youth Innovation Call for Proposals, our government, teachers, and community leaders have an opportunity to help instill in young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians the drive to create, to explore, and to collaborate. A culture of innovation begins with our young people, and through this funding initiative we are pleased to encourage the development of problem-solving skills and creative thinking."
- The Honourable Darin King, Minister of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development

Newfoundland and Labrador organizations with a youth and innovation focused project are invited to submit a proposal. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Not-for profit organizations
• Youth organizations
• Public and private K-12 schools
• Post-secondary institutions
• Municipalities

Successful projects may receive a maximum contribution of 80 per cent of eligible costs to a maximum of $15,000. Since 2009, more than $2.2 million has been distributed for 135 successful projects. Eligible activities include hosting conferences/workshops or field trips, participating in competitions, or introducing innovative learning processes focused in science, engineering or technology fields.

"This funding allowed us to think outside the box to imagine, create, and deliver deeper programming in science and technology. It enabled us to stretch learning experiences to new limits that were not possible before. Our Girls Reveling in Technology (GRiT) program is now part of the cultural fabric of our school and our learners always look forward to GRiT time with eager enthusiasm."
- Aubrey Dawe, Principal, Beachy Cove Elementary School, successful applicants of the 2014 Youth Innovation Call for Proposals

For more information or to apply, visit www.ibrd.gov.nl.ca/innovation/youth/

Deadline for submissions is May 8, 2015.

QUICK FACTS

• The Provincial Government has announced the 2015 Youth Innovation Call for Proposals.
• Funding to a maximum $15,000 is available for successful proposals that challenge or inspire young people to participate in innovation projects with a science, engineering or technology focus.
• Since 2009, more than $2.2 million has been distributed for 135 successful projects.

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Media contact:

Tansy Mundon Director of Communications Department of Business, Tourism, Culture and Rural Development 709-729-4570, 693-1865 tansymundon@gov.nl.ca

2015 03 27                              1:10 p.m.