The Global Game Jam (GGJ) and Games for Change (G4C) have renewed their partnership to host what organisers describe as the world’s largest student game jam, supporting the G4C Student Challenge and encouraging young creators to design games addressing global issues. These initiatives include:
GGJ Next
GGJ Next, Global Game Jam’s annual youth-focused event, invites participants aged 10–18 to explore video game creation while developing skills in coding, digital design, creativity, and problem-solving.
Through the partnership, GGJ Next organisers can run local jams between November 15, 2025, and March 15, 2026, with projects eligible for submission to the G4C Student Challenge. The winning Student Challenge “Game of the Year” team will receive a $10,000 scholarship split among members. Beginning in 2026, GGJ will also recognise top GGJ Next submissions from each participating country.
Educators and facilitators will have access to training tied to the event’s themes, along with curriculum materials developed by both organisations. Limited stipends will also be available for GGJ Next sites. Additional information, including instructions on how to join, can be found on the GGJ Next webpage.
Two webinars are scheduled to introduce prospective organisers to the program and its connection to the G4C Student Challenge:
- November 19 at 6 p.m. UTC / 1 p.m. ET (Register Here)
- November 26 at 1 p.m. UTC / 8 a.m. ET (Register Here)
G4C–GGJ Next Gen Expert Jam
For older students, both organisations will also launch the G4C–GGJ Next Gen Expert Jam, aimed at creators ages 18–25. Running concurrently with GGJ Next, the Expert Jam invites participants to submit games to the Student Challenge’s Expert Division. Entrants can submit digital or tabletop games, character designs, or game trailers inspired by three social impact themes: Outgrow Hunger, Own the Road, and All in for Nature: Reefs & Rainforests.
The Expert Division’s “Game of the Year” winners will also receive a $10,000 prize, with additional awards planned for theme-based categories, tabletop design, international entries, gameplay, trailers, and games made with Unity. Like GGJ Next, the Expert Jam will introduce new country-level recognition in 2026. More information can be found here.
Registration is also open for those wishing to host a site during Global Game Jam 2026. The organization is also seeking nominations for its 2026 keynote speaker and accepting ideas for new diversifiers.
Other Events
Applications are still open for the GGJ–GDC Festival of Gaming Scholarship, which prioritizes previous GGJ involvement and support for underrepresented developers.
Separately, the World Food Program USA, the sponsor of the G4C theme “Outgrow Hunger” will launch its “Stream to Feed: One Stream. Global Impact.” campaign on November 18, 2025. Streamers can now register to raise funds through January 31, 2026, which will go towards providing meals for families in crisis.
For more information, visit Global Game Jam and Games for Change‘s official websites.
