[Industry news] Ubisoft backs IG50 Awards as Into Games opens applications for 2026 cohort

UK games charity Into Games has today opened applications for IG50 2026, its annual programme that recognises 50 of the most talented yet-to-be-hired people in UK games from working-class and low-income backgrounds. The announcement comes as Ubisoft joins as the headline sponsor and as Into Games confirms that 11 winners from the previous 2025 cohort have been placed in paid roles in the UK games industry through its Boost placement programme.

The IG50 Awards, now in their 5th year, identify and support emerging games talent that the industry risks missing due to structural barriers around class and income. Winners receive a chance for paid internships of up to three months with UK studios, free tickets & accommodation for Develop:Brighton 2026, discipline-specific mentorship & networking, and ongoing community and training support.

Applications are open until 24th of May 2026 at intogames50.uk.

Ubisoft’s involvement as headline sponsor marks a significant milestone for the programme. The publisher joins a growing number of studios and industry partners who are using the IG50 as an additional route to finding and supporting untapped talent. Previous IG50 winners now work at major studios including Rockstar Games, Futurlab, IO Interactive, and Playground Games.

Declan Cassidy, CEO of Into Games, said: “The IG50 exists because talent is evenly distributed, but opportunity is not. Ubisoft coming on board as a sponsor is a statement that one of the biggest names in the industry shares that view. The 11 placements from the 2025 cohort, delivered through our Boost programme, prove this isn’t just an award; it’s a hiring mechanism. We know there are thousands of talented people from diverse backgrounds who deserve to be in this industry, and we want to find the best.”

Michael Burnham, Studio Manager of Ubisoft Reflections, said: “We believe that our industry thrives with more creative diversity, so we are proud to support this initiative. Programmes like the IG50 are a great way to encourage a wide range of people to take their first steps in this industry, and I look forward to meeting this year’s cohort.”

The IG50 is open to anyone over 18 who has not yet secured their first role in the games industry, has a strong portfolio, and comes from a working-class or low-income background. Full eligibility criteria and application details are available at https://intogames50.uk