We’re thrilled to announce that Accelerate Season 2 is officially open for applications starting today — and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the next class of passionate and driven researchers, creators, developers, advocates, and leaders at the intersection of mental health and games. You have until July 13, 2025 to apply.
After a phenomenal first season, the Accelerate program is back and ready to provide the next class of 10 fellows the education, mentorship, and experiential opportunities to fuel their mental health x games career trajectories. Season 1 showed us just how powerful this community can be when given the space, support, and momentum to dream big. Season 2 is your opportunity to be part of that energy.
Powered by Partners Who Believe in a Better Future for Game Players, Creators, and Developers
Season 2 is made possible thanks to the incredible support of our lead sponsor, Riot Games, whose commitment to creating positive, lasting social impact in the world for players and the gaming community took Accelerate from a dream to a reality, and whose continued support is helping us take the program to the next level. We’re also grateful for support from Unlikely Collaborators, a non-profit dedicated to transformative storytelling, developing human connection, and resolving internal conflict.
Leveling Up for Season 2
Over the course of six months, Accelerate fellows meet virtually twice a week, diving into a mix of educational sessions, community-building, and hands-on work. These sessions cover everything from core mental health concepts to game development fundamentals — all with a focus on the powerful ways these two worlds intersect. Fellows also hear from guest speakers across disciplines, spend dedicated time developing their capstone projects, and strengthen their skills in areas like public speaking, presenting, collaboration, and scientific communication.
Just like last season, each fellow is paired with a dedicated mentor, offering guidance throughout the program — from shaping ideas to refining projects and navigating professional goals.
And finally, a major highlight: fellows will travel to a major game industry event in the second half of the program, with travel and lodging fully covered. It’s a chance to meet in person, connect with industry professionals, and celebrate how far you’ve come.
Important Dates and Deadlines
- Monday, June 16 Applications open
- Sunday, July 13 @ 11:59PM EST Applications close
- Monday, Aug 18, 2025 Round 1 Notifications are sent to applicants
- August 25 – 29 Round 2 interviews
- Friday, Sep 5, 2025 Final fellow selection
- Monday, Sep 8, 2025 Fellow on-boarding begins
- Week of Oct 13, 2025 Program begins