Kiwi Game Starter is the business start-up competition for New Zealand-based game development teams first launched in 2014. 

Its purpose is to support the commercial success of high-growth, internationally-minded game development startups.

The competition has grown every year. Initially supporting a single winner with prize money and informal mentoring, the competition went on to introduce a runner up prize from 2015; and in 2020 the first and runner up prize money both increased.

In its seven years of operation it has received over 100 entries and distributed $190,000.

Check back with us regularly to see updates and timelines for Kiwi Game Starter 2024.


2024 Competition Results!


Thanks Kiwi Game Starter!

Hi there,

I’m a past recipient of the Kiwi Game Starter (runner up KGS 2022) and I just wanted to drop by and say thanks. 

I am going to release my video game out of Early Access into Full Release next week and wanted to…..