Racial and ethnic diversity
100% of the cohort were from underrepresented communities in the video game industry (BIPOC, female, LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, disabled)
Diverse representation
8 countries represented, and 80% of the cohort were from outside the U.S.
Gender identity
Female identifying remained the same as 2024 (52%)
Non-binary and other gender identities increased to 29% (up from 15% in 2024
Diversity metrics
BIPOC identification increased to 71% (2024 = 68%)
LGBTQIA+ identification increased to 54% (2024 = 33%)
Neurodivergent identification increased to 32% (2024 = 23%)
International Representation
With 32 countries represented, our selection process continues to prioritize an international focus
International grantees = 65% of the cohort
Participant, GDC
"Attending GDC 2025 as part of the IGDA-F program was one of the best weeks of my life. It’s been tremendously useful to me. I learned a lot professionally but also personally and about the things I should keep working on. It also gave me more confidence to share with others."
— Participant, GDC
Participant, Ripples
"My goals for GDC were to expand my network and come out with a clearer direction for my path in game development. Additionally, a personal goal of mine was to connect with developers I had virtually worked with in the past."
— Participant, Ripples
Next Gen Leaders (Copy)
Early Career supports game developers in their first few years in the industry, providing guidance, mentorship, and resources to help them grow, succeed, and build sustainable careers in games.
Questline: Online
With access to individual mentorship, industry veterans, and game companies, the program uplifts, educates, and empowers the next generation of video game leaders.