We are teaming up with the Games Leadership Academy, to offer a number of limited spaces on the Games Leadership® Blueprint Scholarship Programme. We recognise that even the most experienced leaders sometimes face financial barriers, particularly given the events of the last few years in the Games Industry.
We want to ensure that passionate, innovative leaders - whether they’re at indie studios, tackling industry challenges and/or leading impactful projects - have access to the tools and strategies they need to thrive.
This scholarship is an opportunity for Senior or Emerging Leaders to gain access to the Games Leadership® Blueprint course at a reduced rate or under a "pay what you can" model. Read on to learn how you can apply!
Games Leadership® Blueprint Scholarship Programme
Helping Shape Tomorrow’s Games
What is the Games Leadership® Blueprint Course?
The Games Leadership® Blueprint is a comprehensive 12-week Leadership programme designed specifically for leaders within the Games Industry. It equips you with the practical tools, psychological insights, and actionable strategies to lead with authenticity, confidence, and impact.
Whether you’re already in a senior position or transitioning into one, this course will help you align your leadership style with the unique demands of your studio and projects.
The Application Form does ask for you to prepare a detailed statement on your current situation - we advise that you download a copy and prepare your questions in advance.
Scholarship Overview
We believe that financial circumstances should not prevent talented individuals from accessing this transformative Leadership programme. That’s why we’re offering the following scholarship options.
Full Scholarship: Covering the entire cost of the Games Leadership® Blueprint course for a limited number of recipients.
Partial Scholarships: Receive up to 50% off the full course price, depending on your financial circumstances and contribution to the industry.
Pay What You Can: For those in specific financial hardship, you’ll be able to access the course at a price that reflects your current situation.
Who Should Apply?
Our scholarships are designed to support Senior Leaders, as well as those on the cusp of stepping into Leadership roles, who may face financial barriers but are committed to making a lasting impact in the Games Industry.
You may qualify for a scholarship if you meet two or more of the following criteria:
Indie Studio or Non-Profit Leaders: Currently leading or working within an independent studio, start-up, or non-profit games organisation.
Underrepresented Leaders: Individuals from underrepresented groups in leadership roles, including women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC individuals.
Leaders in Social Impact Games: Those working on games or initiatives aimed at making a positive societal impact, such as educational or inclusive games.
Emerging Leaders: Mid-level managers or team leads ready to transition into senior roles but facing financial challenges.
Leaders Facing Temporary Financial Hardship: Individuals earning under £30,000 or facing personal or professional financial challenges.
Please be aware that we may ask for proof of financial hardship in order for you to qualify for a Scholarship placement. Placements are limited in number and we are not able to offer everyone who meets these criteria a Scholarship. Places are allocated on a case-by-case basis and subject to availability.
What You’ll Get as a Scholarship Recipient
If selected, you will receive access to the full Games Leadership® Blueprint course, including:
12 Weeks of Interactive Course Materials: Tailored insights and practical tools to help you grow as a leader.
Group Coaching Sessions: Engage with peers and industry experts in group coaching sessions designed to help you navigate real-world leadership challenges.
Leadership Roadmap: Develop a personalised strategy that aligns with your core values and leadership style.
Emergency Support: Access guidance during critical leadership moments when you need it most.
How to Apply
To apply for the Games Leadership® Blueprint Scholarship Programme, please follow these steps:
Complete the Scholarship Application Form: Tell us about your Leadership experience, your goals, and why financial support would make a difference for you.
Invite to Chat: We may invite you to a short 30 minute chat with our Course Leader. This is a normal part of the selection process for anyone joining the Course and is a chance for you to ask questions and explore how we might be able to support you.
Submit Your Supporting Documents: If we are able to offer you a Scholarship we will be in touch and ask you to provide proof of your financial situation (e.g., salary confirmation, proof of income, or financial hardship documents).
Enroll onto the Course: Once we have confirmed your criteria we will officially offer you a place on the Course and send you enrollment details.
Selection Criteria:
Applications will be reviewed based on the following:
Leadership Potential: Your current or past experience in leadership roles and the potential impact of this course on your career.
Contribution to the Industry: How your leadership has, or could, positively influence the Games Industry, particularly in areas of inclusion, diversity, social impact, or innovation.
Financial Need: Demonstration of financial need based on supporting documents.
We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and especially those from underrepresented or financially disadvantaged groups.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the scholarship?
Any senior or emerging leader in the games industry who meets the criteria outlined above can apply. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, please contact us at info@gamesleadership.com for further clarification.
Can I still apply if I’m not currently employed in a leadership role?
Yes! If you are transitioning into a leadership role or are in the early stages of your leadership journey, you may still apply under our “Emerging Leaders” category.
What is required to apply?
You will need to complete an application form, provide a personal statement about your leadership journey, and submit proof of financial need.
When will I know if I’ve been accepted?
We aim to notify all successful applicants within 8 weeks from submitting your application and access to the course will be provided upon receipt of payment or upon receipt of full scholarship.
Are there any hidden costs?
No! Any price quoted will always include VAT - you will only ever pay the quoted price or, if you are a full scholarship applicant, you will receive the full course completely free of charge. Signing up to the Scholarship programme will automatically include you on mailing lists for both Games Leadership Network AND Games Leadership Academy where you may be occasionally sent offers for further products and services but you are under no obligation to purchase anything further to access your Blueprint Programme.
I’m not in the UK, will that be a problem?
We are currently open for anyone to join us from anywhere in the world. Our only warning is that Group sessions will take place during normal UK office hours 09:00-19:00 GMT and will be subject to availability on our booking system, so you will need to be comfortable attending your session at the allocated time.
What is my commitment?
You are committing to attend bi-weekly Group sessions over the course of 3 months and attended online via Zoom.
You will be requested to join an online Slack Community so that you can engage with our Milestone achievements and meet with other Course members.
We ask that you agree to complete the online course content (approx 12 CPD Hours) over the course of 3 months.
You will be asked to fill in Two Surveys: One before your course starts and one after.
You will also be asked to sign a Client/Coach Contract that sets out your confidentiality agreement and expected behaviour for these sessions.
We will not disclose your participation on the programme unless we have your permission to.
We will be surveying you both before and after your 3 month programme with us and are always keen to hear about any achievements or success you have in the future too!
Will you tell my employer I’m attending?
No! We will not publicly disclose your participation on the programme unless we have your permission to.
However, please be aware that there is a large Group component attached with the Course and whilst we ask members to be considerate about these involvements we cannot guarantee full anonymity.
You are welcome to tell your employer yourself that you are taking part in the programme and we are always happy to answer any questions they might have. about this
Who will be my coach?
Group sessions will be conducted by Melissa Phillips an Executive Coach, specialising in Leadership, Management and Personal Development.
Melisa studied Psychology (BSC) Music (BMus) and Musicology (MA). Her specialist subject for her dissertation topics focused on Emotion. She is an experienced coach and consultant and regularly attends accredited CPD sessions for her own personal development and improvement - including Coaching from her peers!
Melissa has worked over a decade in the Games Industry and nearly 20 years in the Entertainment Industry. Her career has seen her work both in the Charity sector as Games Programme Manager of BAFTA Games and involved in direct developments as Head of Studio and Operations Director. She currently works as a Business Operations Consultant via her agency at www.melissaphillips.co.uk
How will my data be handled?
You can view our GDPR and Privacy Policy here.
I am interested in Partnerships or Sponsoring The Games Leadership Network!
Amazing! You can send us an email at info@gamesleadership.com
Support Games Industry Leadership Through Sponsorship
Empower Future Leaders: Sponsor a Scholarship Placement Today
The Games Leadership® Blueprint is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in the Games Industry. We're inviting companies to be a part of this transformative journey by sponsoring scholarship placements for talented individuals.
This is your opportunity to give back to the community, foster diversity in leadership, and support those who might otherwise miss the chance to take their careers to the next level.
Invest in Your Team: Exclusive Discounts for Company Enrolment
In addition to scholarships, we're offering companies the chance to secure discounted places in the Games Leadership® Blueprint Course for their own employees. This is a perfect opportunity to support your team’s leadership growth while investing in your organisation’s future.
Benefits include:
Bulk Enrolment Savings: Receive discounted rates when purchasing multiple course spaces.
Team Growth: Equip your colleagues with the leadership skills they need to excel and lead confidently.
Industry Insight: Build a shared understanding of effective leadership tailored specifically for the games industry.
For more details on sponsorships and corporate discounts, please reach out to us at info@gamesleadership.com or fill in the interest form at the Games Leadership Academy .
