18 Grants to Fund Your Indie Game in 2025

Bringing an indie game to life is an exciting but financially challenging journey. Whether you need funding for prototyping, development, or marketing, grants can be a game-changer, literally. From government-backed funds to industry initiatives, there are plenty of opportunities to help indie developers secure financial support without giving up creative control.

Here’s a breakdown of 18 funding opportunities available across the UK, Europe, and the US to help you power up your game development journey.

🎮 UK Grants for Indie Game Developers

1. UK Games Fund – Up to £30,000 for early-stage projects, helping new teams break into the industry.

2. UK Games Fund Content Fund – Grants of £50,000 to £150,000 for UK-registered SMEs developing commercial games.

3. Video Games Tax Relief (VGTR) – Tax relief on 80% of core game development costs, helping UK developers cut expenses.

   
   

🇪🇺 European Game Development Grants

4. Creative Europe MEDIA Programme – Supports European developers in creating narrative-driven games.

5. European Games Developer Federation (EGDF) Funding Calls – Regular EU funding opportunities for game studios.

6. Nordic Game Fund – Investments for innovative projects from game developers in Nordic countries.

7. German Federal Games Fund (DFFF) – Financial support for game studios in Germany.

8. Polish GameINN Programme – Funding for Polish studios focused on research and development in gaming.

9. French CNC Support for Video Games – Grants for French developers working on creative, high-quality games.

10. Midgame Fund – A group of Dutch game developers funding other Dutch games.

    
    

🇺🇸 US-Based Grants & Incentives

11. Indie Fund – Investment from experienced game developers to support emerging indie studios.

12. Epic Games' Unreal Dev Grants – No-strings-attached funding for developers using Unreal Engine.

13. NYC Media & Entertainment Grant – Funding for game studios based in New York City.

14. Oregon Film & Video Office Grants – Financial incentives for game development in Oregon.

    
    

🌍 International & Private Funding Opportunities

15. Ubisoft Entrepreneurs Lab – A support program offering mentorship and networking rather than direct funding.

16. WINGS Interactive – Funding for games created by diverse teams, promoting inclusivity in gaming.

17. Global Top Round (GTR) – Investment and mentorship for indie developers worldwide.

18. Wellcome Trust Grants – Supports projects that engage the public with science and health, including educational games.

    
    

Level Up Your Indie Game with Funding

Getting financial backing for your indie game can be the key to turning your vision into reality. Whether you're in the UK, Europe, or the US, these grants and funds offer support to help developers bring unique and innovative games to life. Be sure to check eligibility requirements and deadlines, and start your application today!