NOVA Fellows Program 2027: $100,000 game grants for recent graduates

The NOVA Fellows Program is the grant program of the Nova Games Foundation, a non profit founded by Mark Cerny and Geoff Keighley. Each NOVA Fellow receives $100,000 USD to develop an original game, along with mentorship from people across the games industry and support with networking and visibility.

The money is a grant, not an investment. Nothing is paid back, and Fellows keep full ownership of their work. NOVA pays the grant as the project reaches development milestones agreed in a grant agreement. Fellows making exceptional progress can later apply for the NOVA Luminary Grant of $500,000 USD to move a game from prototype toward publication.

The program is open to graduating students and recent graduates of 13 partner universities, including Abertay University, Carnegie Mellon University, NYU Game Center, USC Games, DigiPen, RMIT University, Sheridan College, TH Köln and Uppsala University. You need a bachelor's or master's degree from an eligible game program, with a graduation date between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2027. The foundation's website has a checker that lists every eligible program.

The application asks for a game concept, an execution plan, a faculty letter of recommendation, a portfolio link and a personal statement video. NOVA says it is not looking for a commercial pitch. It wants applicants to show their creative voice, a clear direction and evidence that they can build the game.

Applications open on 7 December 2026 and close on 10 January 2027. A link to the application form will appear on the foundation's website when the window opens. Fifty finalists will be told by the end of February, and the Fellows will be announced by the end of March 2027.

Quick answers

How much does it pay?

$100,000 USD philanthropic grant per Fellow, plus up to $500,000 USD through the NOVA Luminary Grant. It is a grant and takes no equity.

When is the deadline?

Applications open on 7 December 2026. The deadline is 10 January 2027.

Who can apply?

Individuals who have received, or expect to receive, a bachelor's or master's degree from an eligible game program at one of 13 NOVA partner universities, graduating between 1 September 2025 and 31 August 2027. It is limited to applicants in North America, United Kingdom, Europe, Oceania, CA.

How do I apply?

Through the official page at novagamesfoundation.org. The link is at the top of this page.

Can a team apply together?

No. The game concept and the application must be the work of a single person, although Fellows may later work with a team.

Can I use an existing student project or prototype?

No. Projects that are already underway are not eligible for funding.

Does NOVA take ownership or a revenue share?

No. Fellows keep full ownership and creative control, and NOVA takes no share of revenue. The grant is paid as the project reaches agreed development milestones.