In a move to cultivate innovation within its community, Discord has unveiled its App Pitches Program for 2023. This initiative invites developers to present their unique app ideas for a chance to secure substantial funding. The program is open to a diverse range of developers, whether they are solo hobbyists or part of a larger team, emphasizing Discord's commitment to fostering creativity at every level.
Funding and Categories: Tailored to Diverse Needs
Discord has allocated a total prize pool of $75,000 for this initiative. The program is structured around five distinct categories: Apps for Artists, IRL Impact, Mini-Games, Learning, and Wildcard. Each category addresses different aspects of community engagement and creativity, from supporting artists and facilitating real-world impact through servers, to educational endeavors and niche projects. The top pitch in each category will be awarded $5,000, with the possibility of an additional $10,000 if the project is completed within 60 days.
Submission and Eligibility: A Platform for All
Developers are encouraged to submit their pitches from September 26 to October 10, 2023. To ensure inclusivity, the eligibility criteria are broad, welcoming participants aged 18 and above, or those between 13-18 with parental consent. However, residents of Quebec, Italy, and Brazil are excluded from participation. The judging panel, comprised of industry experts including Discord's VP of Engineering Prachi Gupta and Netflix's Brand Manager Colin Parajon, will evaluate the submissions based on uniqueness and potential impact.
Community and Possibilities: Beyond the Program
Discord's App Pitches Program is more than just a funding opportunity. The program aims to bring together like-minded individuals and communities, offering a space for learning, collaboration, and entertainment. With this initiative, Discord continues to expand the possibilities of what can be achieved on its platform, encouraging developers to explore, create, and contribute to a vibrant digital ecosystem.
“Whether you're a solo hobby dev, a small developer group, or have a huge team behind your app, Discord is the best place to bring your idea to life,” Discord writes in the official announcement. The company is eager to see the myriad of ideas that will emerge from this program and the positive impact they will have on the Discord community and beyond.
