Game Design Emerging Talents: Nordic Game Conference Participation (Switzerland)

Deadline: 01-Nov-2026

Pro Helvetia is inviting applications from emerging game designers with a connection to Switzerland to participate in the SwissGames delegation at the Nordic Game Conference. Selected studios receive CHF 1,000 toward travel and accommodation, along with trade fair access, coaching, networking, matchmaking, and additional support for childcare or related travel expenses.

About the SwissGames Nordic Game Conference Delegation

The SwissGames delegation at the Nordic Game Conference supports emerging game designers with a connection to Switzerland by providing opportunities to present their projects to the international games industry. The programme aims to help new talent in digital game design gain international visibility, build professional connections, and access global markets. Through participation in the trade fair and related industry activities, selected designers can showcase innovative projects and connect with professionals from the international games sector. What Support Is Available? Selected participants receive financial and professional support to help them participate in the Nordic Game Conference.

The support includes:

- A stand presence at the trade fair. - Trade fair passes. - Access to coaching events. - Networking opportunities. - Access to the matchmaking platform. - CHF 1,000 per studio for travel and accommodation costs. - Up to CHF 250 per week for childcare or related travel expenses. International Visibility and Industry Networking The delegation provides emerging game designers with a platform to introduce their projects to the international games industry.

Participation can help designers

- Present their games to industry professionals. - Increase international visibility. - Build industry relationships. - Explore global market opportunities. - Receive professional coaching. - Access matchmaking opportunities. The programme is designed to support emerging talent in developing an international presence within the games industry. Who Can Apply? The programme is open to professional game designers who meet the emerging-talent requirements and have a demonstrable connection to Switzerland. Applicants must meet the following requirements: - Be professional game designers. - Have completed game design education less than seven years ago, or have founded their company less than seven years ago. - Demonstrate a connection to Switzerland. - Hold the copyright and rights of use for the submitted project. What Types of Projects Are Eligible? Projects must be digital games designed for one or more supported platforms.

Eligible projects can be developed for:

- Computers. - Consoles. - Mobile devices. - Mixed reality. Projects must demonstrate a high degree of interaction and significant content impact. How Are Projects Selected? Applications are assessed based on the quality and potential of the proposed project as well as the applicant’s objectives for attending the trade fair.

The selection process considers:

- Originality. - Feasibility. - Innovation. - Marketability. - Objectives for participating in the trade fair. Applicants should therefore clearly explain the project’s concept, potential, and relevance to their professional goals. Copyright and Rights of Use The project sponsor must hold the copyright and rights of use for the submitted game. Applicants should ensure that they have the necessary rights to present and promote the project through the programme and at the trade fair. What Documents Are Required? Applicants must submit the following materials: - A short description of the game. - Expectations and goals for attending the trade fair. - A playable prototype. - CVs of the individuals involved. - Proof of emerging talent status. - A press kit. The application materials should provide a clear overview of the project, development team, professional background, and objectives for participating in the conference. Application Language Applications should be submitted in English. If submitting in English is not possible, applicants may provide their documents in: - German. - French. - Italian. Applicants should ensure that the required materials are complete and clearly presented. Who Is Not Eligible? The programme does not support certain types of projects.

The following are excluded:

- Commissioned work. - Advertising projects. - Purely technological projects without narrative or aesthetic content. Applicants should ensure that their project has meaningful game content and does not fall under the excluded categories. How to Prepare a Strong Application Applicants should clearly demonstrate why their game is suitable for international presentation and how participation in the Nordic Game Conference will support their professional development.

A strong application should:

- Provide a clear and concise description of the game. - Demonstrate originality and innovation. - Explain the project’s feasibility. - Highlight its marketability. - Include a playable prototype. - Clearly state expectations and goals for the trade fair. - Provide relevant CVs. - Include proof of emerging talent status. - Submit a professional press kit. - Demonstrate the required connection to Switzerland. - Confirm ownership of copyright and rights of use. Childcare and Related Travel Support In addition to the CHF 1,000 contribution for travel and accommodation, selected participants can receive up to CHF 250 per week for childcare or related travel expenses. This additional support is intended to help participants manage some of the costs associated with attending the international trade fair. Key Facts About the SwissGames Delegation

- Programme: SwissGames delegation at the Nordic Game Conference

- Funder: Pro Helvetia

- Target group: Emerging professional game designers

- Connection required: Switzerland

- Financial contribution: CHF 1,000 per studio

- Travel and accommodation support: Included within the CHF 1,000 contribution

- Additional support: Up to CHF 250