Run a youth club, school society or community group? GivingTuesday and Games for Change are offering small grants to groups that want to host an Impact Arcade, a fun event where young people play games about real social issues and then plan action in their community. Twenty groups will receive US$50 each to cover event costs, and anyone can use the free facilitator guide to host an arcade even without funding. Applications close on 31 October 2026.
Opportunity at a Glance
- Organisers: GivingTuesday and Games for Change
- What: Pilot micro-grants to host an Impact Arcade event
- Grant: US$50 per group
- Number of grants: 20
- For: Youth groups, schools, educators, community organisations and nonprofits
- Experience needed: None. You don’t need to be a gamer.
- Deadline: 31 October 2026
What Is an Impact Arcade?
An Impact Arcade is a group event built around games about social issues, such as climate change, mental health, inequality or identity. It follows four simple steps:
- Gather: Bring together young people from your school, club or community.
- Play: Play games from the free Impact Arcade collection that explore a social issue.
- Reflect: Discuss what the games showed about the issue and how it affects your community.
- Respond: Decide on a small, practical action your group can take.
It’s an easy, low-cost way to start conversations and turn them into action, which suits student clubs, youth NGOs and classrooms.
Benefits
- US$50 grant for snacks, supplies, technology or other event costs
- Free facilitator guide explaining how to plan and run your Impact Arcade
- Free collection of social-impact games to choose from
- Possible extra recognition: Some listings report a US$500 Impact Award for groups that host an arcade and share their story. Check with the organisers to confirm.
- Be part of a pilot: Help shape a new global programme run by GivingTuesday, the movement behind the worldwide day of giving
Eligibility
You can apply if you represent:
- A youth group or youth-led organisation
- A school, teacher or educator
- A community organisation or nonprofit working with young people
No gaming experience is needed. The official page doesn’t list country restrictions, and the organisers say they want a diverse group of hosts. If you are outside the US, email [email protected] to confirm you can receive the grant.
Tips for Your Application
- Describe your group and audience. Who will attend, how many people, and why does the issue matter to them?
- Pick a theme. Choose a social issue that is relevant locally, such as climate, mental health or inequality.
- Show a simple plan. Say where you’ll host it, what equipment you have (phones, laptops or a projector) and what you’ll spend the $50 on.
- Think about the “Respond” step. Groups that plan a real follow-up action will stand out.
How to Apply
- Visit the official Impact Arcade page and download the facilitator guide.
- Complete the Impact Arcade Pilot Funding application form.
- Submit by 31 October 2026.
Apply for Impact Arcade Pilot Funding
Even if you don’t get funding, you can still host an Impact Arcade using the free guide and games.
