Google has officially opened applications for the 2026 Indie Games Fund Africa. This initiative is designed to supercharge small, independent game studios across the continent by providing crucial financial backing and hands-on operational support to help them scale on Google Play.
The Prize
- $1 Million Cash Pool: Distributed among selected indie studios.
- Equity-Free: Developers retain 100% ownership and control of their businesses.
- Hands-on Support: Direct mentorship and assistance from Google experts.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the fund, your studio and game must meet the following criteria:
Eligible Countries
Your studio must be legally registered in one of these 32 African nations:
Benin, Botswana, Burundi, Central African Republic, Congo (DRC), Cote d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Eswatini, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, or Zimbabwe.
Studio & Game Criteria
- Team Size: Must be a small independent developer with 50 employees or fewer.
- Game Status: Must feature a high-quality indie game with high-growth potential.
- Platform Availability: The game must already be live on Google Play and/or another major platform (PC, Console, or other mobile app stores).
- Note: Additional requirements apply if your game is currently managed by a third-party publisher.
Expectations & Obligations
If selected, you must commit to using the entirety of the awarded funds to build, optimize, and grow your game specifically on Google Play. This includes making the title available on Google Play Pass. Applicants will be required to submit a detailed growth plan outlining how the funds will be utilized during the application process.
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Deadline & How to Apply
- Application Deadline: July 31st, 2026
For complete details and to submit your application, visit their official website:
https://rsvp.withgoogle.com/events/africa-indie-games-fund-2026
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
