Avalanche and Helika have confirmed the launch of their first joint game accelerator program, naming five early-stage studios chosen from more than 100 applicants. The initiative opens a new opportunity for developers seeking funding, mentorship, and blockchain integration support within the growing Avalanche ecosystem.
How Studios Were Chosen
The debut cohort attracted more than 100 applications, reflecting strong interest among studios building gameplay experiences that leverage Avalanche’s blockchain infrastructure. Only five teams secured a spot in the final lineup. According to Avalanche, the goal is to provide developers with a compressed learning curve and the critical support required to prepare their titles for launch.
Helika founder and CEO Anton Umnov said the accelerator addresses a critical gap for new developers trying to enter the market. “Early-stage studios often struggle to turn an idea into a market-ready game and then scale post-launch. With the Avalanche x Helika Game Accelerator, we help teams enter a competitive market, define strong products, and build scalable infrastructure that supports long-term growth.”
Funding, Mentorship, and Technical Support
The cohort’s 12-week timeline is structured around improving core gameplay, refining business strategy, and strengthening cross-platform potential. Participants receive one-on-one mentorship, analytics insights, community growth support, and access to Avalanche ecosystem tools.
Ava Labs gaming partnership lead Parker Heath highlighted the quality of the submissions. “The applications for our first cohort highlighted the creativity and ambition of today’s developers. Together with Helika, we’re building a launchpad for teams that want to move quickly, experiment, and grow with real players.”
Focus on Blockchain Games
The initiative reinforces Avalanche’s continued investment in gaming, particularly projects incorporating blockchain-enabled features such as digital ownership, on-chain progression, and scalable player economies. Combined with Helika’s analytics-driven approach, the program positions the cohort to adapt faster and meet market expectations more efficiently than traditional development pipelines.
The accelerator also gives participants direct exposure to investors and publishers during Demo Day, creating a pathway for future partnerships and broader adoption.
Cohort 2 Now Open for Applicants
Avalanche and Helika confirmed that applications for Cohort 2 are already open, with the next program scheduled for Q1 2026. Teams with existing traction or cross-platform ambitions are expected to gain an advantage during the screening phase. Both organizations emphasize that the accelerator is built for developers who want to move quickly and launch confidently with strong technical and go-to-market support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Avalanche x Helika Game Accelerator?
The Avalanche x Helika Game Accelerator is a 12-week program that helps early-stage game studios refine their projects, access mentorship, and scale their games on Avalanche’s blockchain ecosystem.
How many studios were selected for the first cohort?
Five early-stage studios were chosen from over 100 applicants to join the debut accelerator program.
What support do selected studios receive?
Each studio receives $25,000 upfront, one-on-one mentorship, technical guidance, analytics insights, ecosystem access, community growth support, and the opportunity for up to $125,000 in follow-on funding.
What types of games are eligible for the accelerator?
The program accepts mobile and desktop games, with preference for projects that have traction, cross-platform ambitions, or blockchain-enabled features.
When will the next cohort take place?
Applications for Cohort 2 are open, and the next program is scheduled to launch in the first quarter of 2026.
What is the final Demo Day?
Demo Day is a showcase event where participating studios present their games to investors, publishers, and potential partners to explore funding and growth opportunities.
