Gamecity Hamburg has announced a significant initiative aimed at supporting the development of digital game prototypes. With a total budget of €400,000 allocated per year, the Prototype Funding program will provide grants of up to €80,000 to eligible participants.

Both small and medium-sized start-ups and studios based in Hamburg are invited to submit their applications for Prototype Funding through Gamecity Hamburg. The application period begins on March 7 and will continue until April 8, 2024.

In addition to financial support, Gamecity Hamburg is introducing a pioneering diversity checklist as part of the funding initiative. This checklist is designed to promote diversity within team structures by addressing various aspects, including team development and the representation of marginalized topics and characters in games. Applicants are required to complete the Diversity Checklist as part of their application process.

Dennis Schoubye, head of Gamecity Hamburg, emphasized the importance of diversity in gaming, stating, "Games are the leading medium of our time and can showcase diverse voices, perspectives, and stories."

Since its inception in 2020, the Prototype Funding program has provided support to 26 game projects, totaling over €1,450,000 in funding. Notable recipients include indie studio Tiny Roar, which received Prototype Funding in 2022 for its world-building game "Wanderful.”

Developers and studios in Hamburg interested in applying for funding can do so through the official website. This initiative underscores Gamecity Hamburg's commitment to fostering innovation and diversity within the gaming industry.

Source: adapted from an article by Isa Muhammad, Staff Writer for PocketGamer.biz.