Deadline: 31 July 2025
The GAMA Horizons Fellowship 2025 is now open for applications! This unique eight-month accelerator supports underrepresented tabletop game publishers and retailers based in the US and Canada. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale your creative venture, the fellowship offers vital resources to help you thrive in the game industry.
Designed and run by the Game Manufacturers Association (GAMA) through its Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Committee, the GAMA Horizons Fellowship 2025 equips participants with mentorship, funding, community, and exposure at major conventions.
What is the GAMA Horizons Fellowship 2025?
The GAMA Horizons Fellowship 2025 is an intensive professional development programme aimed at diversifying the tabletop gaming space. Through a mix of mentorship, peer coaching, and industry exposure, the fellowship helps aspiring and early-stage game publishers and retailers build sustainable, inclusive businesses.
Fellows receive:
- Tailored mentorship from veteran industry professionals
- Monthly peer coaching sessions with fellow participants
- A $1,000 grant to support business growth
- Fully covered travel, lodging, and booth space at key conventions:
- GAMA Expo 2025 (Louisville, KY | 23–27 February 2025)
- Origins Game Fair 2025 (Columbus, OH | 18–22 June 2025)
- A 1-year GAMA membership (valued at approx. $300)
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is open to individuals or teams (up to three members) based in the United States or Canada who meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be launching or running a tabletop game publishing or retail venture
- The business must be at least 51% owned or operated by individuals from historically underrepresented communities (racial, ethnic, gender, LGBTQIA+, disability, religious, or other marginalised groups)
- Applicants must be 18 years or older
- A commitment to attend both GAMA Expo and Origins Game Fair is required
This programme is open to both brick-and-mortar retailers and digital-first sellers with a proven business model or growth plan.
Key Dates & Fellowship Timeline
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2025 (by midnight Pacific Time)
- Selection Process: Blind review followed by committee assessment
- Fellows Announced: September 2025
- Fellowship Duration: September 2025 – June 2026
Fellows will engage in regular virtual programming, mentorship, and attend two major in-person events during the programme period.
Why Apply to the GAMA Horizons Fellowship 2025?
This is more than a funding opportunity—it’s a platform to:
- Network with publishers, retailers, and distributors across North America
- Access tailored industry guidance through structured mentorship
- Join a diverse cohort of changemakers reshaping tabletop gaming
- Exhibit your products at key conventions with full financial support
- Become part of the growing GAMA Horizons alumni community
Whether you’re building your first prototype or setting up your store, the GAMA Horizons Fellowship 2025 can accelerate your impact.
📝 How to Apply
Interested in becoming a fellow?
👉 Click here to apply
📖 Read more about the programme
Applications close on 31 July 2025, so don’t delay!
For professional assistance with proposal drafting, refining, or review, contact grantsdatabase.org.
