A New Partnership for Xbox's 25th Anniversary

Xbox and the Best Buy Foundation have announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration: Xbox Game Camp Minneapolis 2026. Running from June 15 to September 3, the 12-week immersive program will welcome 50 participants aged 18 to 19 from Best Buy Teen Tech Centers in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas.

From Concept to Playable Prototype

The program goes beyond basic coding instruction, guiding participants through every stage of the game development lifecycle — from concept and art to sound design, storytelling, and project management. Participants will complete a playable prototype and retain full ownership of any intellectual property they create, giving them a portfolio ready for industry entry.

Direct mentorship from Microsoft and Xbox experts will be paired with local support from each participating Teen Tech Center. "We know how crucial it is for young people to have access to technology, real-world experience and mentorship," said Olivia Jefferson, VP of Social Impact at Best Buy.

Expanding Access to Game Development Careers

Xbox Game Camp Senior Director Peter Zetterberg noted that game development spans a wide range of disciplines and expressed excitement about what the Minneapolis cohort will build. The partnership builds on Xbox's 25-year history of supporting developers and aims to create measurable pathways into education and early careers in the games industry.

Registration and details are available at Xbox.com/gamecamp.