The Copenhagen Lab
20-24 November 2026
A few seats still available for Danish creators
We bring together students, young filmmakers, journalists and media creators (19-25 years old) from across the Nordic and Baltic region, together with participants from Ukraine and Greenland.
You will learn to master AI-assisted innovation in your own creative practice, using AI-generated visual micro-stories, film and documentary as part of the innovation process. Together, we explore how to challenge disinformation, strengthen public trust and tell stories that empower democracy.
Ready to create what comes next? Apply now…
Travel and accommodation
Are covered by the project through the funding from The Nordic Council of Ministers.
The lab programme in Copenhagen
Ready? Apply in 5 simple steps
Practical information, venue, travel, price (travel and accommodation are covered)
Short film from the Nordic Baltic Film & AIdea Lab Oct. 2025 in Riga.
Programme
Programme
You step out of your usual role and into a hands-on creative sprint. During the sprint you will acquire new tools to solve the assignment, and each of you must utilize your special abilities.: Creativity, critical thinking, intercultural collaboration, courage and AI software skills.
Friday 20 Nov: Kick off, expert talks and networking 16:00-20:00
- Understanding the AI turning point
Welcome from the Nordic Council of Ministers. Leading experts introduce the major AI challenges for film, journalism and media, followed by discussion on how creators should respond.
Saturday 21 Nov: Creating insights 10:30-17:00
- Exploration sprint
Build intercultural teams and explore real-world challenges through AI-generated films, visual micro-stories, personas and future scenarios.
Sunday 22 Nov: Designing the ultimate AI-week for the creative sector 9:30-16:00
- Ideation sprint
Work with industry experts to develop and test new concepts for the future of film, journalism and media education using AI-assisted innovation.
Monday 23 Nov: Making a pitch film of your concept 9:30-17:00
- Hybrid film sprint
Turn your concept into a short pitch film through storyboarding, filming, and AI-assisted production, supported by continuous feedback from peers and coaches.
Tuesday 24 Nov: Film pitches and feedback session 9:00-12:30
Present your film and concept to the other teams, followed by feedback, evaluation and reflections.
Copenhagen lab 20-24 Nov 2026
- Open for applications in Denmark
How to apply
Step 1: Write 5 lines about why you want to join.
Step 2:Tell us how you would contribute to the group.
Step 3: Describe your studies or work in one sentence.
Step 4: Send your application to the contact person in your country, including your full name and contact details.
Denmark - Rane von Benzon: rane@hotmail.dk
Ukraine - Halyna Badynkevych: Applications closed
Sweden - Alexandra Hjortswang: Applications closed
Latvia - Alina Hachetlova: Applications closed
Finland - Johannes Mikkonen: Applications closed
Greenland: Applications closed
Step 5: We’ll let you know the result about one month before the lab in Copenhagen.
Who can apply?
You can apply if you are:
A (19-25 years old) student enrolled in higher education within film, journalism or media
Or a young professional or freelancer working in the media sector (19-25 years old)
Requirements
Good spoken and written English
Basic video editing skills
Curiosity and willingness to collaborate
Interest in AI, media and creative storytelling
We aim for a diverse group of participants with a good gender balance
No AI experience is required.
Before the lab
Each country has its own contact person throughout the recruitment process.
During the lab, the NextGenDemocracy team and partners will be available to support you throughout the programme.
The programme begins with facilitated team-building activities designed to create a safe, inclusive and collaborative environment where everyone can contribute.
We believe the best ideas emerge when people feel welcome, respected and confident to share their perspectives.
In collaboration with
NextGenDemocracy
Short film from the Nordic Baltic Film & AIdea Lab Sept. 2024 in Copenhagen.
Practical information
Travel, accommodation and meals
These are fully covered by the project. NextGenDemocracy arranges and purchases all flight tickets. Airport transfers and transportation related to the official programme are also covered.
Participants are responsible for any other local transportation, personal expenses and optional travel extras (e.g. additional baggage).
Dates
Arrival: Thursday 19 November 2026
Lab: 20-24 November 2026
Departure: Tuesday 24 November 2026 (departure in the afternoon)
The facts about Film & AIdea Lab 2026 in Copenhagen .pdf
Venue
Bevar Ukraine
Esromgade 15
2200 Copenhagen N, Denmark
Accommodation
Participants from outside the Copenhagen Capital Region will stay at A&O Copenhagen Nørrebro, a 7-minute walk from the venue. Breakfast at the hotel and all meals during the official programme are included.
The facts about Film & AIdea Lab 2026 in Copenhagen .pdf
Before you arrive
Please bring:
Your laptop
A valid passport and any required travel documents
Curiosity, creativity and a willingness to collaborate
Support throughout the programme
Each country has its own contact person during the recruitment process. During the lab, both your national partner and the NextGenDemocracy team will be available to support you throughout the programme.
The facts about Film & AIdea Lab 2026 in Copenhagen .pdf
A safe and inspiring start
The programme begins with facilitated team-building activities designed to help everyone get to know each other and create a safe, inclusive and collaborative environment from day one.
More information
Selected participants will receive detailed practical information, including the final programme, speakers and travel arrangements, after the selection process.