gamescom dev has officially opened applications for its 2026 Scholarship Program partner network, continuing its mission to make the games industry more accessible, inclusive, and globally connected.
The program is designed to support talented game developers who face financial, structural, or personal barriers that would otherwise prevent them from attending gamescom dev and gamescom. By working with organisations across the industry, the initiative helps bring new voices into one of the world’s leading game development conferences.
Over recent editions, the scholarship program has already demonstrated significant impact, supporting hundreds of scholars and collaborating with more than 40 international partners. In 2026, it returns with an expanded focus on community-driven selection, professional development, and meaningful industry access opportunities.
Selected partners play a key role in shaping who gets access to the program. This typically involves running application processes within their own communities, helping identify candidates who align with the program’s goals, and supporting the broader selection process.
Depending on the organisation, partners may include universities, industry associations, developer networks, studios, and companies who want to actively support diversity and inclusion in games.
The scholarship program is part of gamescom dev’s wider commitment to building a more diverse and representative games industry. The initiative is focused not just on attendance, but on creating meaningful entry points into the industry through networking, learning, and community-building experiences.
Following strong participation in previous years, the program continues to grow as a core part of the gamescom ecosystem—helping ensure that more developers, regardless of background, have access to one of the industry’s most important events.
Organisations interested in becoming partners for the 2026 scholarship program can apply before the May 28 deadline.
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