Philanthropy
Ongoing coverage on Philanthropy.
Latest coverage
Geoff Keighley and Mark Cerny create a fellowship program to fund and help young game designers
Geoff Keighley and Mark Cerny have launched the Nova Games Foundation, a grant program designed to fund and mentor aspiring game designers. The foundation will provide initial funding of $100,000 to 20 selected recipients from university programs, with potential for up to $500,000 more for promising projects. The program offers mentorship and publisher introductions with no strings attached, allowing creators to retain ownership of their work.
Mark Cerny and Geoff Keighley launch university-affiliated fellowship program
PlayStation lead architect Mark Cerny and video game show host Geoff Keighley have launched the Nova Games Foundation, a university-affiliated fellowship program offering six-figure grants to support upcoming game developers. The program aims to provide 'no-strings-attached' funding and mentorship, with fellows retaining full ownership of their projects. Despite the positive initiative, some former honorees of Keighley's past 'Future Class' program have voiced criticism regarding past experiences with mentorship and opportunity offerings.
PS4, PS5 Hardware Architect Says He’s “Nearing the End” Of His Career, Announces Nova Foundation
PlayStation 4 and 5 lead architect Mark Cerny, nearing the end of his career, has partnered with Geoff Keighley to launch the Nova Foundation. This initiative aims to foster independent game development by offering six-figure grants and mentorship to aspiring designers, with applications opening in December. Cerny and Keighley have personally donated to establish the foundation, emphasizing its philanthropic nature.
PlayStation console mastermind Mark Cerny is "nearing the end" of his career and putting millions into helping…
Mark Cerny, PlayStation's lead systems architect, is nearing the end of his career and is co-founding The Nova Games Foundation with Geoff Keighley. The foundation will award grants totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars annually to aspiring game developers, aiming to support future generations in the industry.
Evening Reading - August 25, 2026
This article reports on the passing of country music legend Dolly Parton, highlighting her philanthropic work, particularly her Imagination Library initiative that promotes childhood literacy. It also includes various gaming news announcements from Gamescom Opening Night Live 2026, such as new bundles for Nintendo Switch, the announcement of Rollercoaster Tycoon Wonderworks, and release dates for games like Mewgenics and Path of Exile 2.
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Gabe Newell has reportedly purchased a 531-foot deep-sea research vessel for $815 million. This acquisition marks a significant personal investment outside of his usual ventures in the video game industry.
"More charities than ever are looking at games": Meet Cause+Select, the platform linking the games industry to top charities
Ctrl+Impact founder Wayne Emanuel has launched Cause+Select, a platform designed to connect charities with the video games industry for mutually beneficial partnerships. The platform aims to streamline collaborations, offering charities a way to navigate the gaming space and for developers and publishers to find strategic charitable initiatives. Cause+Select is currently in beta and free for game companies, with charities paying a nominal fee.
Zohran Mamdani turns philanthropy and corporate greed into an extended Mario Kart metaphor: 'Government is…
New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani used a Mario Kart metaphor to explain the relationship between government and philanthropy in funding child care initiatives. He likened government to Yoshi and philanthropy to the golden mushroom, with corporate greed representing Bowser. The article also touches on Mamdani's childhood interest in games like SimCity 3000.
Mamdani Uses Mario Kart To Explain New Tax On The Super-Rich
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani used Mario Kart as a metaphor to explain his new tax plan targeting the super-rich. The plan aims to make the city more affordable by implementing a Pied-à-Terre Tax on luxury property owners and encouraging philanthropic donations. Mamdani, a known fan of video games, compared government to Yoshi and philanthropy to a golden mushroom needed to defeat Bowser, representing corporate greed.
The Film and Television Figures Whose Work Continues to Shape the Industry
This article highlights influential figures in the entertainment industry who have shaped culture through their work, advocacy, and philanthropy. Individuals like Alfre Woodard, Geena Davis, and Keanu Reeves are recognized for their lasting impact beyond their on-screen performances, demonstrating how talent can translate into significant cultural and social change.
How Prominent Philanthropists Are Shaping Global Change
This article highlights 15 influential celebrity philanthropists who are making a significant global impact through their charitable work. It details their diverse contributions, ranging from mental health advocacy and supporting veterans to global health initiatives and environmental protection, showcasing how fame can be leveraged for positive change.
15 Black Actors Making a Lasting Impact on Film and Television
This article highlights 15 influential young Black actors under 30 who are making a significant impact on film and television. It details their notable roles, their commitment to social causes, and their role in redefining Hollywood with diversity and authenticity.
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Epic Games billionaire Tim Sweeney has purchased 50,000 acres of forest land to protect it from development. The acquisition is part of his broader efforts in conservation and philanthropy.
16 Times Actors Donated Their Pay or Took Pay Cuts
Several Hollywood actors have demonstrated remarkable generosity by donating their salaries or taking pay cuts for various film projects. Keanu Reeves, George Clooney, and Chadwick Boseman are among those who prioritized creative integrity, collaboration, or charitable causes over personal financial gain. These actions highlight a commitment to uplifting colleagues and supporting meaningful projects within the film industry.
