For 20 years, the ESA Foundation has supported youth-focused social impact programs and more recently, convenes industry leaders to further relevant Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging conversations. Foundation programming has included:
- Grantmaking to a wide range of nonprofits at the intersection of youth and interactive technologies, such as civic engagement, health care, and STEAM education.
- Scholarships for women and minority students pursuing video game art or science-related degrees.
- Hosting Nite to Unite, an annual industry fundraiser that partially supports the Foundation’s programs and initiatives.
In 2023-2024 the Foundation has paused scholarships and grant making to reflect on how best it can contribute to the field. More information on past Foundation programming can be found here.