The Department for Culture Media and Sport makes grants available through the UK Games Fund for small businesses and start-ups that are developing high‑quality, playable games.
There are separate grants available within the UK Games Fund:
Starter Fund
Grants up to £20,000 for solo developers working with contractors or at the beginning of their professional games-development journey. The funding can be used for own-IP development and the fund provides a pathway offering a structured programme of professional support.
Prototype Fund
Early-stage games studios can apply for a grant of up to £100,000 to create working prototype games and raise the private investment necessary to see a concept turned into a finished product. Applications close on 5 May 2026.
Content Fund
Gaming businesses can apply for £100,000 to £250,000 to develop commercial games-for-entertainment content. The funding can be spent on staff and contractor costs for hands-on development activity. A prototype must be in place.
Focus of fund/fund aims:
Grants to support start-ups and small businesses in the UK games sector
Application deadline:
Starter Fund: Applications open soon. Prototype Fund: 5 May 2026. Content Fund: EoIs at any time