GLAAD Gaming is excited to announce our new Queer Emerging Developers program, supported by Logitech.
Queer Emerging Developers offers a cohort of LGBTQ game developers the opportunity to accelerate their careers via dedicated mentorship from members of the GLAAD Gaming team and celebrated leaders across the game development space. Cohort members will also have the opportunity to attend the 2026 Game Developers Conference, the largest professional event in the gaming industry, where they can further develop their craft and gain the unique and valuable career opportunities the conference offers.
By the end of the program cycle, LGBTQ developers within the cohort will be better equipped with the skills, platform, and career velocity to enable them to successfully bring high-quality LGBTQ representation to broad audiences of players.
2026 QED Cohort: Call for Submissions
Applications are open now for our inaugural Queer Emerging Developers cohort.
Application Deadline: November 10, 2025.
General Questions
What is Queer Emerging Developers (QED)?
Queer Emerging Developers (QED), supported by Logitech, is a program designed specifically for emerging LGBTQ game developers to elevate LGBTQ storytelling in video games. The program is a pathway designed to advance industry access and provide LGBTQ creatives working in the gaming industry with opportunities to build and strengthen their professional networks, access executive leadership and spaces, and gain industry knowledge and experience.
Eligibility
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must:
– Identify as LGBTQ+.
– Be emerging game developers (early to mid-career).
– Commit to participating in virtual program activities, including monthly mentorship sessions, group sessions and professional development workshops.
– Be able to travel to San Francisco for the 2026 Game Developers Conference, taking place March 9-13, 2026.
Do I need to work in a specific game development role?
No, this program is for all game developers. We will make every effort to offer discipline-specific mentorship via guest mentors specialized in cohort members’ actual disciplines.
Can I apply if I live outside of the United States?
Yes, this program is accepting international applicants. Program activities will be scheduled during PST or EST hours, though we will try to accommodate other time zones where possible.
Application Process
How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through the application form link above. Be sure to complete all required fields by Monday, November 10, 2025.
Do I need to include a portfolio in my application?
A link to a portfolio or personal website is recommended if it is an industry standard for your discipline.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is Monday, November 10, 2025.
Program Details
What is the time commitment for participants?
QED mentorship activities are expected to take place over approximately 4 months, within the first half of 2026.
Participants are expected to attend monthly mentorship sessions with program advisors, group discussion sessions, and participate in professional development workshops. This regular programming will not exceed 4 hours per month, though mentors may recommend participants do optional tasks for professional development outside of scheduled sessions.
Participants will also be expected to attend GDC 2026 from March 9-13, 2026 in San Francisco and will be provided a conference pass and travel stipend in order to do so.
Is this a virtual or in-person program?
All regular programming will take place virtually via Google Meet. There will be limited in-person activities scheduled during GDC, which participants will be expected to attend.
Will participants receive financial support for program activities?
Participants will receive an All-Access (or equivalent) pass to GDC and $2000 USD travel stipend to be used for the GDC conference. All other travel expenses will be the responsibility of the participant.
Contact Information
Who do I contact if I have questions about the application process?
For questions, please email gaming@glaad.org.
Where can I learn more about GLAAD and the QED program?
Visit glaad.org/qed/ for more information about GLAAD and the Queer Emerging Developers program.
About GLAAD Gaming
GLAAD Gaming, part of the GLAAD Media Institute, works to create authentic LGBTQ representation in gaming, more LGBTQ-inclusive workplaces for video game companies, and better player experiences for LGBTQ gamers.
We educate and consult with video game studios and publishers of all sizes to help them achieve authentic LGBTQ characters and storylines in games of all genres.
Accelerate Acceptance
Your gift allows us to work with the video game industry to help create authentic LGBTQ characters in gaming in order to provide a better experience for LGBTQ gamers and accelerate acceptance for LGBTQ people.
