Xsolla opens applications for scholarships at GDC 2027: 75 independent developers will be able to participate for free

Registration for the Xsolla Scholarship Program for the GDC Festival of Gaming 2027 is officially open. After bringing 45 developers to the 2026 edition, Xsolla has decided to raise the bar: this year the available spots rise to 75, a 67% increase. The goal is clear: to break down the financial barriers that often prevent independent studios and emerging developers from being present at the most important global event in the video game industry.

What the scholarship includes

Winners will receive a complete package to experience GDC without financial worries:

• A full Festival Pass to the GDC Festival of Gaming 2027

• Four nights of hotel in San Francisco (check-in March 1 – check-out March 5, 2027)

• Invitation to the exclusive Xsolla luncheon at the Xsolla Clubhouse on Howard Street

• Access to Xsolla events and networking sessions

• Direct presentations to Xsolla's Funding, Marketing, Integration and Customer Success teams

• Exclusive swag and other benefits reserved for program participants

The festival will take place from 1 to March 5, 2027 at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, with a new Business Hall dedicated to meetings, partnerships, pitches, and investor discussions.

Who can apply

The program is open to developers and studios from around the world who have a game in active development, from the early concept stage to a title close to launch. The size of the studio doesn't matter: the important thing is to have a concrete project and the desire to enter the conversations that are shaping the future of the industry.

Berkley Egenes, Chief Marketing and Growth Officer at Xsolla, said:

“Every developer deserves a chance to participate in the conversations and opportunities that define our industry's future.”

Important Deadlines

• Applications Open: October 16, 2026

• Applications Close: November 30, 2026

• Winners Announced: January 2027

Applications must be submitted through the official Xsolla portal. All applications must be completed by the deadline to be considered.

Why This Initiative Matters

Attending GDC is an opportunity to meet publishers, investors, technology partners, and other developers, showcase your game, and build relationships that can change the trajectory of a studio. But for many independent teams, travel, accommodation, and ticket costs are an insurmountable obstacle.

With this program, Xsolla, as the festival's Diamond-level sponsor, is taking concrete action to make the event more accessible. The expansion from 45 to 75 scholarships confirms that the initiative is not a one-off, but an ongoing commitment to the indie community.

If you're developing a game and dream of being in San Francisco next March, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Applications are open: the time to apply is now.

Find the link to apply here