XR Creators Lab 2026 — Pilot Programme Announcement

Following the success of a smaller pilot last year, XR Creators Lab returns this August as an expanded hybrid online and VR creative technology internship for young people aged 15–18. This next phase brings a wider regional focus, connecting participants and supporting organisations from across Ireland, the UK and the EU.

This pilot represents a unique step forward — not only in scale, but in approach. Alongside young participants, educators, youth workers and caregivers are actively involved in supporting engagement, creating a more grounded and supported model for exploring emerging technologies.

XR Creators Lab is designed for young people who are curious about creative digital practices and interested in exploring how technologies such as XR and AI can be used for making, collaboration and expression.

Across five days, participants take part in live online sessions, immersive VR experiences, creative workshops and collaborative activities, working together in a structured but exploratory environment. The programme supports young people to develop ideas, test concepts and build confidence using creative technologies.

This work reflects a broader shift in how digital skills are understood and developed. Increasingly, the focus is moving beyond passive consumption towards active creation, collaboration and real-world application — particularly in areas such as immersive media, AI-assisted creativity and interactive digital environments.

XR Creators Lab responds to this shift by offering a space where young people can engage directly with these emerging practices, not as observers, but as participants. The experience blends hands-on making with real-time interaction, including immersive VR meetups and opportunities to connect with professionals working in the XR space.

The pilot cohort brings together a small number of young people and organisations, creating a diverse and collaborative environment grounded in curiosity, creativity and shared learning.

XR Creators Lab is designed for beginners and emerging creators. No previous experience with XR, AI or coding is required — curiosity and willingness to explore are enough.

Participation in this pilot programme is free of charge as part of this initial development phase.

We are currently inviting expressions of interest from organisations, educators, youth workers and caregivers supporting young people aged 15–18.

To learn more and request registration details, please visit the main programme page or get in touch directly.

Places in the pilot cohort are limited and will be curated to support a focused and collaborative experience.