INNOVATION NEWS BY BRILLIANT LABS

February 2026

February is a time to connect learning with purpose. From Black History Month and Girls in STEAM to hands-on innovation, we’re highlighting how making supports inclusive, meaningful learning aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

In this February edition of InnovationNews, we’re sharing a snapshot of what’s ahead as the launch of the Brilliant Blue National Challenge 2026 gets closer, along with a recap of Clair 2026, a look ahead to March Break camps, and resources focused on cybersecurity and b.Board.

We’re grateful for the continued support of our educators, partners, and funders, including the Government of Canada through the CanCode program, and we look forward to what’s next.

As the date approaches, students from across Canada are gearing up to take on real-world ocean challenges, turning curiosity into action.

Whether it’s designing smarter marine systems, exploring renewable energy solutions, or creating ways to keep marine life healthy, young makers will push the boundaries of what’s possible.

The Brilliant Blue National Challenge isn’t just about projects, it’s about thinking differently, collaborating creatively, and making a tangible impact on the world around us.

Each team has the chance to bring bold ideas to life and contribute to a future where our oceans thrive.

Team registration is now open!

Ready to dive in? There’s no better time to start shaping solutions that matter!

This March, our FREE March Break Camps will give young makers the chance to explore, create, and experiment with hands-on STEAM activities. From robotics and coding to natural making and creative problem-solving, each day is packed with projects that spark curiosity and build skills for the future.

Spaces are filling up fast! Don’t miss the chance to join the fun and make this March Break unforgettable!

Saint John Public Library, Saint John, NB: 2:30-3:30pm (AST) on March 2nd & 4th

Join us in-person for this March Break Camp based out of the Saint John Public Library, located at 1 Market Square, Saint John, NB. During this camp we will explore the world of Biomaking!

Please note: This program is bilingual

Ages 8-12 | 2:30-3:30 pm (AST) | To register call 506-643-7239 or email BiblioLib-sj-child-enf@gnb.ca

Photography Camp, Moncton, NB: 10:00am - 11:30am (ages 11-13) or 1:00pm - 2:30pm (ages 14-17) from March 2nd to 6th

Join us in-person for this March Break Camp in Moncton, located at 245 Saint George St, Suite 301, Moncton, NB. Throughout this Photography March Break Camp students will learn the basics of photography including everything that goes into capturing great shots as well as some photo editing.

Ages 11-17 | 10:00am - 11:30am (ages 11-13) or 1:00pm - 2:30pm (ages 14-17) | Register Here 

Brilliant Labs Makerspace, Saint John, NB: 8:30am - 4:30pm (AST) from March 2nd to 6th

Join us in-person for this March Break Camp based out of our Saint John Makerspace, located at 58 Broad St, Saint John, NB. Throughout this week-long free program we'll explore Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence, and Robotics!

Ages 8-12 | 8:30 am - 4:30 pm (AST) | Register Here

At the end of January, we joined educators and partners at Clair 2026 for three inspiring days filled with exchange, reflection, and hands-on learning. From the opening conference and protocol ceremony to the Forum des pratiques gagnantes, BarCamp sessions, and Ignite talks, the event created space for meaningful conversations around education, innovation, and the future.

Missed it or want to revisit some highlights? Watch the event replay here

Black History Month is an opportunity to acknowledge the history, experiences, and contributions of Black communities, and to reflect on their lasting impact on Canadian society, education, and innovation. It also invites reflection on the importance of equity, representation, and inclusive learning spaces across the country.

Learn more here

Support Brilliant Labs in empowering youth through hands-on learning, creativity, and innovation! We provide students with tools and opportunities to solve real-world challenges, integrating technology and the UN Sustainable Development Goals to inspire the next generation of leaders, scientists, and entrepreneurs.

 

Your donation helps bring sustainable, experiential education to classrooms and communities, fostering skills like problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. Together, we can create a brighter, more innovative future.

 

Donate today to make a difference by clicking here.

DONATE MENTOR VOLUNTEER CONNECT

The b.Board, our Canadian-made open-source prototyping platform, empowers students to design, build, code, and invent.

Seamlessly compatible with the BBC micro:bit, it brings hands-on STEAM learning to classrooms, makerspaces, and community programs, from introductory coding to complex problem-solving tied to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Pre-order your b.Board and classroom kits today and make innovation part of your learning space!

As digital tools become part of everyday learning, understanding cybersecurity is more important than ever. Our cybersecurity resources help students and educators explore online safety, responsible digital behaviour, and the basics of protecting information, through hands-on, age-appropriate activities.

Designed to spark discussion and critical thinking, these tools support classrooms in building digital confidence while developing essential skills for today’s connected world.