Deadline Date: March 16, 2026
The KickStart Funding Programme is offering to promote and strengthen game development and the game development ecosystem in Aotearoa New Zealand by providing financial support to eligible applicants for digital interactive game projects with commercial outcomes.
The programme focuses on supporting projects that have commercial intent, including games developed for entertainment or serious purposes such as health and education, and encourages eligible applicants to submit an Expression of Interest followed by a Full Application if deemed suitable by the expert panel.
KickStart funding grants range between $10,000 and $60,000 and are only released to successful applicants after assessment, with unallocated funds carried forward to subsequent rounds. The CODE Board makes final decisions on funding, which are binding on all applicants.
Eligible applicants must be based in Aotearoa New Zealand and can be individuals aged 18 or older, groups of individuals, or incorporated business entities. Applicants must not be insolvent, bankrupt, or have undisclosed conflicts of interest, and work for the project must be carried out within Aotearoa New Zealand.
The programme does not support hobbyists, first-time game developers, or undergraduate course projects unless exceptional circumstances apply, and all projects must aim for commercially saleable outcomes. Undergraduate students may participate with written permission from their institution and approval from CODE.
This initiative provides an opportunity for game developers in Aotearoa New Zealand to receive financial backing, professional recognition, and the guidance necessary to bring commercially viable digital games to market.
For more information, visit CODE.
