Zoud and Global Game Jam (GGJ) have launched Zoud GameLab, an international virtual game jam challenging creators to turn financial literacy concepts into engaging gameplay, with up to US $140,000 in prizes and development support available.
The United Arab Emirates’ National Financial Wellbeing and Sustainability Initiative, Zoud, and Global Game Jam announced the initiative, which will run virtually from 15 October to 15 November 2026. The programme will bring together developers, designers, artists, writers and other creators from around the world to develop games centred on financial literacy and everyday money decisions.
A pre-jam learning programme will begin on 15 September, providing participants with resources, webinars and expert-led sessions to help them explore the theme and develop their game concepts ahead of the main event.
The collaboration combines Zoud’s focus on advancing financial wellbeing with Global Game Jam’s global game development community.Participants of all experience levels, including studios and creators new to financial literacy, can form teams and develop games during the month-long programme.
“At Zoud, we are always looking for new and creative ways to make financial wellbeing more accessible and engaging. Through Zoud GameLab, we are tapping into the creativity of game creators around the world to explore how financial concepts can be brought to life through play,” said Zoud program director Natalia El Menhall.
Global Game Jam executive director Maria Burns Ortiz said game jams provide an opportunity for developers to approach complex real-world topics through creative game design, adding that financial literacy could encourage participants to think differently about both design and impact.
Financial literacy will form part of the judging criteria, while contenders for the top awards will also be required to submit a project budget, allowing them to apply financial planning skills as part of the challenge.
Zoud GameLab will offer a shared prize and funding pool of up to US $140,000. Awards will recognise the best overall game, runner-up and third-place entry, along with additional categories highlighting financial literacy, regional perspectives and gameplay.
Participants will also have access to financial literacy and game development resources, including webinars, interactive workshops, a dedicated guide to creating a financial literacy game, curated learning materials and sessions with subject matter experts.
The pre-jam programme and initial resources will launch on 15 September, followed by the main game jam from 15 October to 15 November. Winners are expected to be announced in mid-December 2026.
