The ESA Foundation has provided 31 university students with scholarships worth $5,000 to $10,000 to support careers in game development and esports.
The program offers two scholarships – the Computer and Video Game Arts and Sciences Scholarship and the Esports Scholarship.
Recipients are also given mentoring sessions and opportunities to attend industry events such as GDC Festival of Gaming.
The 2026-27 cohort includes scholars from across the US, including the University of Oregon, UC Berkeley, Stanford, Yale, University of Southern California, Howard University, Dartmouth, and Tennessee Tech University.
“The scholarship program has helped support my aspirations by connecting me with a community of people who share similar passions and ambitions,” said ESA Foundation Scholar 2026 Xavier Gonzalez.
“Beyond the financial support, it gives me the opportunity to meet others in the industry, learn from their experiences, and feel more confident in my own path.”
“Knowing that there are organisations and individuals willing to invest in students like me has been incredibly motivating. The program has reminded me that a career in games is not just a dream, it’s something I can actively work toward and achieve.”
The ESA Foundation also raised $1.15 million at its annual Nite to Unite fundraiser, sponsored by IGN Entertainment.
Funds raised supported this year’s scholarships and also supported workforce development, accessibility, wellness, and inclusion.
Overall, the ESA Foundation has raised more than $24 million and awarded over 475 scholarships to support underrepresented youth.
“Great games and strong esports communities are built by passionate people with fresh ideas, creative ambition, and the drive to make an impact,” said ESA Foundation executive director Sue Madden.
“Our scholarship program is designed to help students turn that passion into a pathway toward a future in the video game industry.”