Applications are open for NSI Intro to Virtual Production – Manitoba Indigenous Lab

Promotional graphic for NSI Intro to Virtual Production – MB Indigenous Lab. Large maroon headline reads “NSI Intro to Virtual Production – MB Indigenous Lab.” Subheading states, “Explore virtual production tools through story, practice and collaboration.” Application deadline reads, “Apply by: March 10, 2026 nsi-canada.ca/programs.” Logos for New Media Manitoba StudioLab xR and the National Screen Institute appear along the bottom. The background is light grey with subtle circular patterns and geometric shapes in maroon, teal and red in the corners.
Back to news

Media release

February 23, 2026

National-Screen-Institute-grey

Communications

Published by communications

Indigenous creators in Manitoba are invited to apply for NSI Intro to Virtual Production – Manitoba Indigenous Lab, a three-day, in-person pilot delivered by the National Screen Institute in collaboration with New Media Manitoba through its StudioLab xR facility.

Taking place March 31, April 1 and 2, 2026 at StudioLab xR in Winnipeg, the lab introduces participants to the foundations of virtual production and real-time 3D storytelling. Up to 12 First Nations, Inuit and Métis creators aged 18 and over will be selected.

Virtual production is a filmmaking technique that blends physical sets and digital environments in real time using tools such as Unreal Engine, a 3D creation platform widely used in film and television. As virtual production becomes more common across the industry, this lab creates space for Indigenous creators to explore these tools on their own terms.

Designed as an accessible entry point, the lab supports creators who are curious about how digital tools can expand their storytelling practice. Through demonstrations, guided exercises and small group activities, participants will work with Unreal Engine and professional virtual production equipment. No prior technical experience is required.

Across three full days, participants move from story and idea development to practical on-set exercises, including planning a scene for virtual production, lighting and rendering, camera tracking and shooting a scene at StudioLab xR. The lab emphasizes learning by doing, with clear instruction, a supportive pace and time to ask questions and revisit concepts.

StudioLab xR is New Media Manitoba’s 6,000-square-foot extended reality facility dedicated to workforce development and innovation in emerging technologies. Its virtual production stage provides the tools and technical expertise production teams need to combine physical and digital environments in real time.

Applications close on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Learn more and apply

Application support: Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill – sa****************@********da.ca

“New Media Manitoba’s StudioLab xR is about connecting creative expression with industry-ready skills,” says Jonathan Lê, senior manager of StudioLab xR. “By training filmmakers in virtual production and real-time pipelines, we’re ensuring our creators can compete globally while telling distinctly Canadian stories. Our vision is a production ecosystem where innovation, collaboration and storytelling move forward together.”

“Our stories do not change when the tools change. This lab allows Indigenous creators to step into virtual production in a way that feels grounded, supported and culturally aware,” says Sarah Simpson-Yellowquill, program manager. “We are creating a space where curiosity is welcomed and technical learning happens alongside care.”

Sarah will oversee participant support and accessibility throughout the training to ensure the workshop is delivered using respectful, participant-centred practices alongside technical instruction.

Participants will receive a stipend and daily lunches. Tuition and application fees are generously covered by lab partners.

Who can apply?

Applicants must:

Creative experience may include school or community-based projects, acting, writing or directing work, involvement with a local newspaper or radio station, or post-secondary education.

• • •

NSI Intro to Virtual Production – Manitoba Indigenous Lab is funded by Program Partners Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Telefilm Canada; Industry Supporters IATSE 856, On Screen Manitoba; National Screen Institute Core Funders are Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, Rogers and the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council. More sponsors will be added as confirmed.

• • •

About New Media Manitoba

New Media Manitoba is the Sector Council for Information Communications and Digital Technologies and a non-profit association serving Manitoba’s Interactive Digital Media industry. Through workforce development, industry support and initiatives such as StudioLab xR, New Media Manitoba advances innovation, skills development and growth across Manitoba’s digital economy.

Application enquiries

Media enquiries

Share this

face book twitter

About the National Screen Institute

We partner with a visionary network of donors, businesses, and private and public organizations to provide industry-informed training in screen-based media, equipping creators across Canada with the skills to tell unforgettable stories.

By prioritizing storytellers from equity-deserving communities – including Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (BIPOC), women, 2SLGBTQ+, people with disabilities, and those in regional and remote areas – we help build a more sustainable industry and a workforce ready to meet evolving market demands.

Our students and alumni find their voices and places on the global stage, strengthening the creative economy and shaping a better world.

Media enquiries

liz.hover@nsi-canada.ca

The National Screen Institute is supported by: Core Funders: Manitoba Sport, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, the City of Winnipeg through the Winnipeg Arts Council, Rogers; Benefactors: Telefilm Canada, CBC, TELUS STORYHIVE, Canada Media Fund (CMF); Patrons: Paramount+, Creative Saskatchewan; Builder: Indigenous Screen Office (ISO); Strategic Sponsors: Manitoba Film & Music, Department of Canadian Heritage, Bell Media, RBC, Neeginan Education, Training and Employment Services, Inc. (NETES), Creative BC, Warner Bros. Discovery Access Canada, The Winnipeg Foundation; Industry Partner: National Film Board of Canada; Friends: Ontario Creates, Société de développement des entreprises culturelles (SODEC), Yukon Media Development, Bell Fund, Sunbelt Rentals Film & TV, Carolyn Sifton Foundation, Directors Guild of Canada, Women in View, Disability Screen Office, On Screen Manitoba, AMI, Neshama Entertainment, A&E.