Keighley and Cerny Launch Nova Games Foundation to Fund 20 New Developers Annually

Key points

• The Nova Games Foundation was co-founded by Game Awards host Geoff Keighley and PlayStation 5 architect Mark Cerny.
• The foundation will distribute grants to 20 students each year, with individual awards starting at $100,000 and reaching up to $500,000 for promising projects.
• Grants are awarded to recent graduates from 13 partner universities, including NYU, USC, Abertay University, and the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.
• The initiative is strictly philanthropic; the founders do not take equity or expect financial returns, focusing instead on creative and societal value.
• John Maconga serves as executive director, and Ashley Corrigan, former GDC director, leads the grants program.
• Applicants from the 2026 and 2027 graduating classes are currently being accepted for the first cycle of funding.

Background

This initiative follows recent industry discussions regarding the challenges facing new game developers, as highlighted in earlier coverage of Geoff Keighley’s editorial gatekeeping at Gamescom ONL 2026. While previous archive entries focused on showcase logistics and industry events, the Nova Games Foundation represents a shift toward long-term structural support for talent, addressing the 'ladder being pulled up' in the games industry. The foundation’s model is distinct from commercial investments, aligning more with educational endowments than corporate ventures.

How outlets are covering it

Kotaku emphasizes the personal motivation behind the foundation, noting Keighley’s desire to give back without commercial stakes and Cerny’s belief that he is nearing the end of his career. Kotaku highlights the specific grant amounts and the milestone-based release of funds. Insider Gaming focuses on the organizational structure, naming John Maconga and Ashley Corrigan as key leadership figures, and frames the initiative as a fellowship program aimed at ensuring industry stability. Both outlets agree on the core financial structure but differ in emphasis: Kotaku highlights the 'no equity' philanthropic nature, while Insider Gaming stresses the appointment of experienced industry veterans to manage the grants.

Why it matters

The Nova Games Foundation addresses a critical gap in the game development pipeline by providing direct financial support to new graduates who lack the resources to bring their projects to market. By offering up to $500,000 per project without taking equity, the foundation removes a significant barrier for independent creators. This initiative could help diversify the industry by supporting 'new voices' and providing mentorship, potentially mitigating the rising cost of entry for aspiring game designers in a competitive market.

What to watch

The foundation is currently accepting applications from the 2026 and 2027 graduating classes. Recipients will be required to meet development milestones to unlock full funding. Keighley and Cerny have stated they intend to continue contributing to the endowment and hope other industry figures will join them in supporting the initiative over the next 10 to 20 years.