CODE opens NZGDC Scholarship Programme

7 hours ago
2 min read

CODE is offering NZGDC Scholarships to first-time attendees as part of our commitment to industry equity.

The New Zealand Game Developers Conference (NZGDC) has grown immensely over recent years, establishing itself as a leading event in the region's game development calendar.

However, attending your first conference in the game development industry can be daunting due to considerations like ticket prices, accommodation, and traveling from across Aotearoa, not to mention figuring out what to do at the event itself.

CODE's NZGDC Scholarship Programme aims to eliminate financial obstacles for early career developers, and will help derive the most value in networking, community engagement, and learning opportunities at this year's event.

You might be a student in your final year of a degree or diploma program, or a recent graduate in a game development-related discipline. Alternatively, you could be a self-taught developer with experience in creating and shipping small games, seeking to expand your understanding of the actual industry.

In any case, you will be looking to form connections in the game development industry in Aotearoa New Zealand (and beyond) to begin or advance your career*.

CODE's NZGDC Scholarship will consist of a ticket to the 2026 event running 30 September - 3 October, "Bootcamp Workshop", and NZGDC official side events. Accomodation near to the venue and airfares or travel costs appropriate are also included.

How to apply

Please read the NZGDC Scholarship Programme Summary of Information, for full application assessment requirements and eligibility criteria.

If you meet eligibility criteria and would like to apply, please complete the NZGDC Scholarship Programme application form by 5pm, Monday 20th July 2026.

*Please note: Anyone who has been to NZGDC before regardless of who has provided the pathways or budget is automatically excluded from this programme on the basis they would likely have the mechanisms to get themselves there. This Scholarship is available once per successful applicant and is intended on helping early career developers overcome barriers to their physical participation. This Scholarship is only open to applicants resident in Aotearoa New Zealand. Any applicants must be over 18 years at the time of travel.