Mark Cerny and Geoff Keighley Launch Nova Games Foundation
Mark Cerny, lead architect of the PlayStation 5, and Geoff Keighley, host of The Game Awards, have launched the Nova Games Foundation, a university-affiliated fellowship program designed to support emerging game design talent. The initiative represents a collaborative effort between two prominent industry figures to invest in the next generation of developers.
The Nova Games Foundation will award six-figure grants to 20 young game designers annually. The program provides financial stability and opportunity to recent graduates pursuing careers in game design, aiming to foster talent within the industry while reducing barriers to entry for aspiring developers. Through this fellowship, Cerny and Keighley hope to create a lasting legacy and establish long-term support mechanisms for emerging designers.
The founders have appointed experienced industry leaders to key positions. John Maconga serves as executive director, overseeing the program’s overall operations, while Ashley Corrigan, the former director of the Game Developers Conference, has been named head of grants. Her appointment brings extensive experience in supporting and recognizing gaming industry talent.
The Nova Games Foundation reflects a broader recognition that investing in education and emerging talent is crucial for long-term industry health and innovation. The founders have indicated their hope that the gaming community will continue to provide ongoing support for the foundation, positioning this as a long-term commitment to developing the next generation of game designers rather than a one-time initiative.