These immersive, industry-led camps introduce kids to the building blocks of creative technology through coding, game design, animation, and digital storytelling. And starting in 2026, they’ll be growing significantly in scope and scale, delivered in partnership with UTG Academy and Alchemy VFX. Together, these organizations are helping DigiBC bring coding, design, animation, visual effects (VFX), and creative thinking to more classrooms and communities than ever before.

“By expanding DigiCamps with the support of Netflix and our education partners, we’re making sure more young people – from more regions and backgrounds – get the chance to explore coding, animation, and digital storytelling in a meaningful, inspiring way,” says DigiBC Executive Director Loc Dao.

This work is central to DigiBC’s mission: building a strong talent pipeline, strengthening pathways into creative tech careers, and ensuring young people across B.C. can see themselves in the province’s innovative digital industries. It complements DigiBC’s suite of education initiatives, including the Work Placement Program (WPP), new Netflix-funded Creative Technology Gateway Scholarships, and a portfolio of micro-credential programs developed with post-secondary partners.

Read on to learn what each partner will be bringing to DigiCamps in 2026 – and how this expansion will help foster the next generation of B.C. creators.

New from Alchemy VFX: Animation Magic Camps for 2026

In 2026, a brand-new DigiCamp will debut – from Alchemy VFX, a Victoria-based animation and VFX studio now developing an original camp called Animation Magic. Alchemy VFX will deliver the first three camps on Vancouver Island next year – with plans to expand the delivery footprint across the province.

Though new to delivering DigiCamps, Alchemy VFX  are experts at creating real-time effects for video games, and mentoring industry professionals to hone  their visual effects skills. Applying this knowledge and experience to the development of youth programming is an exciting opportunity for Alchemy VFX’s founders, Catherine and Jeff Kuipers.

“Our vision with Animation Magic is to inspire and encourage young people to learn how to be creators, not consumers, of 3D content and art,” says Catherine.

The camp is designed  for kids  who are interested in the artistic side of digital media rather than the technical coding aspects. Participants will gain real insights into how 3D game art is produced, and how to apply artistic principles. Learners will create their own short animated sequence featuring a wizard character, magical effects, and an immersive environment. “We want them to activate their imaginations and tell their own stories,” says Catherine.

Adding to its educational impact, Alchemy VFX has also been participating in DigiBC’s Work Placement Program, offering co-op positions to assist in development for Animation Magic – another effort that dovetails with DigiBC’s commitment to opening local career pathways in creative tech.

“It’s been very rewarding to  support our local students and graduates, and see  them gain confidence and industry skills,” says Jeff. “We’ve enjoyed their energy and enthusiasm, and  I’m proud of the work they’ve done on Animation Magic.”

UTG Academy: In-Class Coding Camps at 22 Schools Across the Lower Mainland

On top of the new Alchemy VFX offering, DigiBC’s original-format coding camps will be branching out to schools in 2026.

For years, UTG Academy has delivered after-school and summer DigiCamps that use coding to spark curiosity and confidence. In 2026, UTG will expand its reach by taking DigiCamps directly into Lower Mainland classrooms.

The programming will continue to be practical, hands-on – and grounded in visibility: showing kids what real careers in creative tech look like.

“There’s so much noise right now for kids now,” says Jamie. “Earlier generations had a clearer script for what came next. Today things are so different. With more possibilities and more distraction, kids need better visibility into the kinds of roles that exist and the paths that lead to them.”

In the past, DigiCamps have relied on students and parents registering for extracurricular sessions. Moving DigiCamps into schools brings creative tech to thousands more young people who might otherwise not get the exposure. “Now when we show up in schools, we can support more students who might never have seen themselves in these kinds of opportunities,” adds Jamie. “I think more kids deserve the opportunity to explore, build, and discover what they’re capable of.”

The in-school workshops will focus on introducing the Python programming language, through exercises and mini-challenges carried out in a supportive environment.

The Bigger Picture: DigiBC’s Commitment to Education

DigiCamps sit within our broader ecosystem of programs designed to build strong, inclusive talent pathways across B.C.’s creative technology sectors, including:

• Work Placement Program (WPP): 170+ student placements to date across animation, video games, XR, VFX, and digital media.
• Creative Technology Gateway Scholarships (also funded by Netflix): Fully funded seats at Vancouver Film School (VFS) and Vancouver Community College (VCC) for aspiring animators and VFX artists.
• Micro-Credential Programs: Developed with VCC, SFU SIAT, and the Centre for Digital Media (CDM), enabling learners to reskill or upskill for evolving roles in creative tech.
• DigiConnect: Meaningful mentorship opportunities for up-and-coming creative tech talent

2026 and Beyond: What’s Ahead for DigiCamps

DigiCamps have always been special. But having a global creative studio like Netflix behind the program is already making a meaningful impact.

“DigiCamps are one of the most powerful tools we have for growing B.C.’s creative tech talent pipeline,” says Loc. “With Netflix’s support, and partners stepping up across the province, we’re ready to bring this experience to many more schools and communities. We’re excited to work with districts, educators, and industry to keep building opportunities for the next generation of creators.”

To explore partnerships, workshops, or volunteer opportunities, contact DigiBC at exec@digibc.org