Prototype Funding: New Funding Round Starts - Germany

Gamecity Hamburg has initiated a new round of prototype funding for game developers, teams, and small-to-medium enterprises based in or relocating to Hamburg. The primary objective of this program is to provide financial support for the development of game prototypes, with a specific focus on enabling the realization of larger-scale projects through increased funding caps.

The program offers a standard maximum funding amount of 80,000 euros, which covers up to 80 percent of total project costs, requiring applicants to provide a 20 percent self-contribution. A significant update for this funding cycle allows applicants to increase their total potential support to 120,000 euros if they combine the Gamecity Hamburg grant with other public funding sources, such as federal German game development programs. To qualify for this higher tier, projects must satisfy the eligibility criteria for both the local and the additional public funding programs.

The application process requires a mandatory consultation with Gamecity Hamburg at least two weeks prior to submission. The current application window remains open until April 11, 2022, with a second funding round scheduled to take place from August 29 to October 4, 2022. This initiative reflects a broader regional commitment to fostering the local games industry by providing structured financial pathways for developers to move from concept to prototype.