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"NSF Game Maker Awards" is currently closed and not accepting applications.
NSF Game Maker Awards is sponsored by National Science Foundation (NSF). To commemorate its 75th anniversary, NSF invites students to create video games that imagine 'Life in 2100.' The games should reflect one or more of NSF's focus areas, such as discovering the universe, imagining work and transportation in 2100, creating sustainable ecosystems, managing futuristic cities, or advancing medical technology.
The competition aims to nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers, and game designers and promote the development of technical skills and a deeper understanding of STEM concepts.
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NSF invites K-12 students to design their own video games and compete for Game Maker Awards | NSF - U.S. National Science Foundation In an effort to keep NSF. gov current, the archive contains older information that may not reflect current policy or programs.
NSF invites K-12 students to design their own video games and compete for Game Maker Awards The U.S. National Science Foundation announces the NSF Game Maker Awards "Life in 2100" competition for K-12 students. To commemorate the agency’s milestone 75th anniversary, this competition invites students to create video games that imagine life 75 years from now - in the year 2100. The journey to “Life in 2100” begins now!
Students have until 5 p. m. EST on Jan.
31, 2025. Details online at the NSF Game Maker Awards website. “The NSF Game Maker Awards challenge young minds to unleash creativity and sharpen technical skills while exploring STEM concepts.
By sparking their imagination and interest for STEM at an early age, we aim to nurture future innovators who will drive scientific and technological advancements” said NSF Director Sethuraman Panchanathan. “This initiative empowers the next generation through video game design, reflecting our commitment to making STEM education engaging and accessible.
We are thrilled to launch this competition during our 75th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in NSF's journey of innovation and discovery. ” Students will compete to win up to $7,500 in various prize categories and their games will be featured in NSF 75th anniversary activities. An additional prize can go to mentors, teachers or parents/guardians who aid teams in application and game development.
The NSF Game Maker Awards for K-12 is a call to action for students across the nation to dive into the world of game design and STEM, to think critically and creatively about the future and contribute unique perspectives to the ongoing dialogue about our planet’s trajectory.
Through this challenge, the NSF hopes to nurture the next generation of scientists, engineers and game designers who will lead us into a bright and innovative future. NSF will team with non-profits, industry partners and community organizations to create a robust support system that improves access to resources and promotes collaborative learning.
The competition encourages students to explore NSF-supported research areas, including sustainable ecosystems, futuristic cities and advanced medical technology. NSF Game Maker Award winners will be invited to a special in-person event to showcase their games, connect with fellow innovators and meet industry leaders in gaming and STEM fields. For more information, visit NSF Game Maker Awards .
Office of the Director (OD)
According to the current listing, eligibility includes: Students are eligible to participate. A written explanation reflecting on lessons learned during the game development process must be included. A playable game demonstration and a written entry describing the mentor's role and support are optional. Confirm the full requirements in the official notice before applying.
The current listing shows $2,500 (top 20 entries), $5,000 (Best-in-Class), $1,000 (mentors). Verify award ceilings, matching requirements, and allowable costs in the official notice.
The published deadline was January 31, 2025, which has passed. Check the official notice for any future application windows before investing time in a proposal.
NSF Game Maker Awards is funded by National Science Foundation (NSF). Verify program details on the funder's official page before applying.
Start from the official opportunity page linked in this listing — it carries the sponsor's submission instructions.
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