Key Takeaways
- Three full-tuition VFS animation scholarships are available to aspiring Canadian animators through The DigiBC Creative Technology Gateway Scholarship offered in partnership with Netflix.
- Recipients will receive hands-on training at the #1 Global Animation School, gaining industry-ready skills and a portfolio that will impress studios.
- Winners will enrol in their choice of any VFS animation & VFX program: 3D Animation & Visual Effects, Classical Animation, or Animation Concept Art.
Exciting news, animators! DigiBC, in partnership with Netflix, have partnered to create a powerful new opportunity for emerging Canadian animators: The DigiBC Creative Technology Gateway Scholarship. As part of a broader commitment to strengthening training pathways across both public and private education in B.C., this newly established program begins with a partnership with Vancouver Film School (VFS) and Vancouver Community College (VCC).
DigiBC and Netflix are creating new pathways for aspiring creative tech professionals, starting with animation scholarships at VFS. With three full-tuition scholarships available – one for each of the March 2, May 4, and June 29, 2026 start dates – winners can choose from any of VFS’s animation & VFX programs: 3D Animation & Visual Effects, Classical Animation, or Animation Concept Art.
Designed to empower the next generation of storytellers, this initiative connects students directly to the industry while helping them develop the creative and technical skills required for a successful career.
The first deadline is Jan. 16 – Learn more and submit your application here!
A MAJOR INVESTMENT IN CANADIAN TALENT
Ranked the #1 Global Animation School by Animation Career Review, VFS is home to an animation alumni who have contributed to major projects such as Superman, Lilo and Stitch, Wicked: For Good, and Netflix’s KPop Demon Hunters. In 2025 alone, VFS graduates were credited on over 100 Oscar-nominated films, 250 Golden Globe-nominated projects, and nearly 450 Emmy-nominated series. This scholarship builds on that legacy – creating accessible pathways into animation & VFX.
“Vancouver Film School is proud to offer The DigiBC Creative Technology Gateway Scholarship, in partnership with DigiBC and Netflix – an initiative that will cultivate Canada’s next generation of creative talent. This partnership will strengthen the connection between VFS’s globally recognized education and the creative industry, while ensuring that aspiring filmmakers and animators have access to world-class training.” - Jonathan Bell – Managing Director, Vancouver Film School
“With the generous support of Netflix, DigiBC is proud to launch The DigiBC Creative Technology Gateway Scholarship, providing opportunities for learners to develop and hone their creative skills at Vancouver Film School’s internationally recognized animation and visual effects programs. Through this scholarship, Netflix is investing directly in the next generation of talent and providing an exciting opportunity not only for three deserving recipients, but more broadly for our creative technology sector and the future of digital storytelling in B.C.” - Loc Dao – Executive Director, DigiBC
The DigiBC Creative Technology Gateway Scholarship includes three full-tuition scholarships to any VFS animation program.KEY DATES & DETAILS
Applications open December 1, 2025.
Deadlines for the three scholarship intakes are:
- January 16, 2026 (for March 2 start)
- March 9, 2026
- May 4, 2026
Winners will be announced on February 2, April 6, and June 1, respectively. Scholarships cover tuition only and are available exclusively to Canadian applicants aged 19+ OR who have graduated high school at the start of their program.
ABOUT DIGIBC
DigiBC is the Creative Technology Industry Association of British Columbia. DigiBC’s mission is to make British Columbia the world’s leading center for creative technology, ensuring that creative tech is a cornerstone in the broader technology & media ecosystem, and that the sector grows and thrives for current and future generations.
HOW TO APPLY
The process consists of two parts: 1) completing the official scholarship application, AND 2) submitting a visual art portfolio. Each program requires a portfolio of up to 12 pieces, with guidelines tailored to each individual animation program. All documents must be submitted on the official scholarship page.
This initiative represents a significant moment for Canada’s creative future – one that champions innovation and opportunity for the next generation of animators and creators. Good luck to all who apply!
FAQ
1. Do I need to be an animation expert to apply?
Not at all! You don’t need to be a seasoned pro – you just need skill, potential, and a portfolio that shows your passion for storytelling. Whether you're already dabbling in 3D software or filling sketchbooks with characters, we want to see your creativity and drive.
2. I’m nervous about the portfolio part… how polished does it need to be?
Good news: the panel doesn’t expect perfection. They’re looking for potential, curiosity, and craft. A thoughtful collection of your best work – whether drawings, concept explorations, or early 3D pieces – can absolutely stand out. Show who you are as an artist, not just what you’ve mastered.
3. What happens if I miss one of the deadlines?
No worries – you’ve got three chances. If you miss the first application window, just regroup and submit for the next eligible start date. Each intake awards one scholarship, so every deadline is a fresh opportunity.