Application for Games Transfer: Gamecity Hamburg

Gamecity Hamburg announced the opening of applications for "Games Transfer," a funding program launched on September 21, 2020, designed to raise the visibility of current game projects and help Hamburg-based developers build new business contacts. The program subsidizes participation in both online and in-person industry events and exhibitions, lowering the cost barrier for small studios and individual developers.

Funding is capped at 1,500 euros per applicant per calendar year and can be spread across multiple events as long as the combined sum stays within that limit. Recipients must contribute 20 percent of the calculated total costs themselves. The grant is non-repayable, awarded on a de minimis basis, and paid out after the event based on actual, documented expenses. Eligible costs include tickets, travel, workshop and panel participation, and the creation of event-specific marketing materials, covering both attendance and preparation.

Eligibility is limited to companies and individuals with a business office, company seat, or residency in Hamburg that are active in game development and employ no more than 20 permanent staff. Projects must pursue commercial utilization, and applicants must clearly justify their need for funding. Games Transfer operates as a rolling program, with applications accepted no earlier than four months before an event begins.

The surrounding page content shows the broader Gamecity Hamburg support ecosystem as of 2026. Related offerings include the Games Lift incubator (15,000 euros for five teams plus mentoring and a 1,000-euro coaching budget), Prototype Funding, the Road to gamescom booth program, Portside Game Assembly on June 25–26, 2026, and a Senator's Roundtable with Hamburg's culture senator. Local releases such as MENACE, The Amusement, and Star Trek: Voyager – Across the Unknown illustrate the region's active development scene.