Play-it-Forward

Grants for Nonprofits

Gamers Engaged is Playing it Forward

At Gamers Engaged, we believe that when the gaming community comes together, real-world magic happens. Our annual Play-It-Forward Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations that create lasting impact utilizing the power of games. Our Areas of Focus include: Health/Mental Health and Basic Needs, Education, and Community/Neighborhood Development. 

Apply for the 2025 Grant Cycle

The Play-it-Forward grant is designed to be a low-barrier grant, including minimal reporting requirements, improving the lives of community members through the power of play and games.

The grant award is for unrestricted funds for nonprofit organizations that utilize games in the delivery of their impact. 

Gamers Engaged will be awarding four $10,000 grants this cycle, one in each category:

  • Serving communities in the Pacific Northwest

  • Serving communities nationwide

  • New Kid on the Block (for organizations founded after January 1, 2018)

  • Leadership Diversity (BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+ lead organizations)

Gamers Engaged will assign the categories as your organization may be eligible for multiple categories.

Timeline

Subject to change

  • Application opens: Late July 2025

  • Deadline to apply: September 21, 2025

  • Review Period: September-October (Applicants may be contacted for additional information)

  • Announcement: November 2025

  • Award Distribution:  December 2025

If you have any questions, please email development@gamersengaged.org.

Thank you.

Play-it-Forward Interest List

Please complete our interest form if you'd like updates on the application cycle.

Meet the 2024 Play-it-Forward Grantees

  • Take This

    National Play-it-Forward Grantee

    Take This is on a mission is to decrease the stigma, and increase the support for, mental health in the game enthusiast community and inside the game industry. Read our interview with Take This.

    Learn More

  • Zeno Math

    Local Play-it-Forward Grantee

    Zeno Math sparks joy and inspires a love of math in young children and families through racial equity, family engagement, and play, all centered in the experiences of communities of color. Read our interview with Zeno Math. 

    Learn More

  • Game to Grow

    Game Centric Play-it-Forward Grantee

    Game to Grow is dedicated to the use of games for therapeutic, educational, and community growth. Read our interview with Game to Grow.

    Learn More

  • Game Devs of Color Expo

    New Kid on the Block Grantee

    GDOC Expo’s mission is to amplify the creative power held by people of color in games. Read our interview with GDOC Expo.

    Learn More