Applications for Into Games' IG50 Initiative Reopen Next Month, Supporting Emerging Talent from Underrepresented Backgrounds

Into Games has commenced accepting applications for its IG50 program, an annual initiative that showcases 50 exceptional, yet-to-be-discovered individuals from working-class and low-income backgrounds in the UK games industry. Now in its fifth iteration, the program is backed by Ubisoft as its headline sponsor, offering internships of up to three months at UK-based studios. The initiative also provides complimentary tickets and accommodation for Develop:Brighton 2026, aiming to identify and nurture emerging talent that might be overlooked due to socio-economic barriers. According to Declan Cassidy, CEO of Into Games, "The IG50 program was established on the premise that talent is universally present, but opportunities are not. Ubisoft's sponsorship is a testament to the industry's largest players acknowledging this disparity. The 11 placements secured through our Boost program for the 2025 cohort demonstrate that IG50 is more than just an award – it's a tangible hiring mechanism. We're committed to uncovering the most talented individuals from diverse backgrounds who deserve a place in our industry." Michael Burnham, Studio Manager at Ubisoft Reflections, added, "We firmly believe that our industry benefits from increased creative diversity, which is why we're proud to support this endeavor. Initiatives like IG50 are instrumental in encouraging a broad spectrum of individuals to embark on their industry journey, and I'm eager to meet this year's cohort." Aspiring candidates can submit their applications starting May 24 at intogames50.uk. Notably, Into Games reports that 11 winners from the 2025 cohort have successfully secured paid positions within the UK games industry through its Boost placement program.