WATERKANT
EXHIBITION
Aurelia Award
Immersive future made in SH.
The Aurelia Award – initiated by the Society for Immersive Media (GiM.SH) and Waterkant Futures Thinking Lab – is looking for young visionaries who are breaking new ground with XR. Win €500, exposure at the Waterkant Festival, and your place in the spotlight!
Your immersive idea
Are you developing an XR project that the world should see? Whether VR, AR, or MR – if your prototype, concept, or finished experience conquers new digital spaces, then the NextGen XR Prize SH is the perfect place for you!
We are looking for fresh ideas, unusual perspectives and young talents who use immersive technologies to tell stories, solve problems or simply think differently.
Artistic, social, technological – immersive!
What is there to win?
The three best projects will be presented on the main stage at the Waterkant Festival 2026.
You'll gain visibility, community feedback, and access to industry networks. Additionally, the winner can expect:
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1st place €500 prize money
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Networking with the XR Bavaria Hub & Festival of the Future, Munich
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Spot in the Waterkant Exhibition 2026
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2nd place €250 prize money
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3rd place €100 prize money
Who can participate?
Students (e.g., media design, game design, architecture, art & technology), pupils & trainees (with a focus on computer science, media or design) as well as all creatives & XR enthusiasts can participate as individuals or in teams of max. 3 people.
We are particularly pleased to receive applications from Schleswig-Holstein, Hamburg & Northern Germany, but are open to applications from the entire German-speaking region.
Apply now!
Showcase your immersive future – made in SH.
Application deadline: April 5, 2026
Presentation of the projects in the Waterkant exhibition: from May 31, 2026
Presentation & Award Ceremony for the Waterkant Festival: June 18–19, 2026
Further contact persons and information about the Aurelia Award can be found at gim.sh
