This year’s RBC Innovators' Ball raised more than $730,000, breaking the record with a 10 percent increase from last year, to support the Ontario Science Centre's community access programs. Since 2008, the annual event has raised more than $5.4 million to provide critical funding for these programs, which serve approximately 80,000 kids and families annually by removing financial barriers that might otherwise stand between the community and a visit to the Science Centre.

"Our sponsors and donors give the gift of science learning — a gift that lives on long after a visit," said Maurice Bitran, PhD, CEO and Chief Science Officer, Ontario Science Centre. "The 'a-ha' moments experienced here ignite enduring curiosity and inspire lifelong discovery. More importantly, the skills gained through experiential science learning help cultivate the next generation of engaged and informed leaders, innovators and citizens.”

The attendees of the ball doubled their generosity and raised enough to enable 8,000 students to visit the Science Centre through Adopt-a-Class. One of the Ontario Science Centre's community access programs, which provides classes from schools located in Toronto's most underserved neighbourhoods with an opportunity to visit the Centre and participate in a curriculum-related program at no cost.

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