AMSTERDAM
THE DGTL ACADEMY IN PARTNERSHIP WITH ABN AMRO
DGTL Academy
Applications for the DGTL Academy 2026 are now closed. We would like to thank everyone for the many inspiring submissions. The selection for the DGTL Academy 2026 has been completed. We would like to thank everyone who applied for the many inspiring submissions. Soon, we will share more about the artists selected for the DGTL Academy 2026 and the work they will be creating for DGTL Festival.
The DGTL Academy, in partnership with ABN AMRO, is an intensive six-month mentorship programme supporting female talent in electronic music and visual art. The programme focuses on the development of artistic voice and professional skills, while providing access to knowledge, networks and creative challenges within the electronic music and art scene.
For the 2026 edition, 6 artists have been selected:
3 producers / DJ’s
3 visual artists
The programme consists of intensive workshops, creative sessions and exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences. Participants work towards their own creative vision while building valuable connections within the industry. The programme culminates in a joint audiovisual installation presented at DGTL Festival 2026.
The challenge
The electronic music and art world remains largely male-dominated. This applies not only to artists on stage, but also to technical and creative roles behind the scenes, where women continue to be underrepresented. While there is no shortage of talent, opportunities to grow, gain visibility and be heard are often limited.
Since 2025, the DGTL Academy, in collaboration with ABN AMRO, has offered female makers an intensive mentorship programme that provides space, guidance and visibility. The first edition culminated in a large-scale artwork at DGTL Festival, drawing attention to the need for lasting change within the scene.
Our shared ambition
DGTL and ABN AMRO share the ambition to accelerate female talent in electronic music and visual art, while addressing structural inequality within the industry. Through mentorship, access to professional networks and targeted support, the DGTL Academy creates meaningful opportunities for emerging female artists.
By combining DGTL’s platform and expertise with ABN AMRO’s resources and support, this initiative actively contributes to a more inclusive sector in which diverse voices help shape the future of electronic music and visual culture.
What the DGTL Academy offers
• 6+ months of dedicated mentorship
• High-level knowledge & hands-on experience
• Workshops & masterclasses with industry professionals
• Media exposure & networking opportunities
• A public showcase at DGTL Festival 2026 (audiovisual art installation)
The end product
The DGTL team creates a striking LED art installation, a living artwork at the heart of DGTL Festival 2026. This becomes the canvas where the work of six selected makers takes center stage.
3 producers each craft a powerful 5-minute soundscape, mentored by an established DJ/producer.
3 VJ’s design a matching 5-minute visual piece, guided by an experienced VJ.
Together, their creations merge into a 15-minute high-energy loop, running throughout the festival. Visitors will see and hear their work as part of an immersive festival landmark, spotlighting the next generation of female talent supported by ABN AMRO and DGTL.
Applications closed
The application period for the DGTL Academy 2026 has ended. The selection has been completed, and we will soon share more about the artists selected and the work they will be creating for DGTL Festival 2026.
To stay informed about the results and future editions of the DGTL Academy, follow our channel for updates and announcements, more exciting news will be shared soon.
