IGDA Foundation - Questline: Online 2026 & Questline: Gamescom 2026
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Welcome to the IGDA Foundation's Questline Online & Questline: Gamescom application.
Thank you for your interest in our programs and this opportunity.
Questline: Online
Questline: Online (previously called the Virtual Exchange) is a development program for grantees from underrepresented communities globally.
With access to individual mentorship, industry veterans, and game companies, the program uplifts, educates, and empowers the next generation of video game leaders. Questline: Online is an annual virtual six-week program.
Questline: Gamescom
Questline: Gamescom is a brand-new program from the IGDA Foundation designed for aspiring founders and early-stage studio leaders who are ready to level up.
Selected participants will join a curated cohort and receive tailored programming focused specifically on the realities of starting a studio - from strategy and sustainability to pitching and publishing. The experience also includes personalized mentor matching and covers flights and accommodation to attend devcom and gamescom in Cologne, connecting you directly to one of the largest gatherings in the global games industry.
After returning home from Germany, your quest will continue with Questline: Online, providing you with continued support on your studio creation journey.
Who can apply?
Our programs are open to individuals from underrepresented communities around the globe, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+, women, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, Person of Color), LatinX, people with disabilities, people with neurodivergence, people from a lower socioeconomic status, veterans, and people of a non-dominant religion.
Which cohort should I apply to?
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.
Next Gen Leaders supports mid-career game industry professionals as they look to transition to leadership roles in the industry.
Velocity is for professionals looking to transition into the game industry from another nongaming-related career or industry.
The International Scholars cohort consists of students attending or recently graduated from colleges and universities worldwide (including those in HBCU and HSI) with a goal of preparing its grantees for a career in the video game industry.
Please use the following questions to advocate for why you should be selected for this program (in about 100-250 words per answer).