Skillz Announces $75 Million Developer Accelerator for Skill-Based Mobile Games

Skillz Inc. has launched a $75 million accelerator programme to support mobile game developers working on skill-based games. The Skillz Developer Accelerator will provide financial backing, operational resources, and expert guidance to help developers bring competitive games to market.

The programme will run over the next three years, with Skillz planning to support at least 25 games. However, the company has stated it remains open to supporting additional projects that align with its focus. Developers with games that are easy to learn but highly competitive, with strong retention, monetisation, or live-ops strategies, are encouraged to apply. A working prototype or demo is preferred but not required.

Investment in Competitive Mobile Gaming

Skillz sees real-money, skill-based gaming as a growing area within mobile gaming, particularly regarding player lifetime value.

"Real-money, skill-based gaming is one of the fastest-growing mobile genres in terms of player lifetime value," said Skillz CEO Andrew Paradise. "The goal of the Skillz Developer Accelerator is to reinforce our commitment to driving value for developers and players while scaling the future of the skill-based gaming industry on the Skillz platform, creating long-term revenue opportunities for developers and the Company."

Beyond Financial Support

Alongside financial support, selected developers will receive additional resources, including:

• Skillz’s proprietary software development kit (SDK) and data tools
• Technical and operational support from Skillz staff
• User acquisition strategies to help increase reach and retention

Skillz aims to provide developers with access to tools and expertise that can help improve their game’s performance and monetisation.

How to Apply

Developers can apply via the Skillz Developer Accelerator Portal, submitting:

• Background information on the development team and project
• A demo or pitch deck of the game(s)
• A project plan covering development and post-launch support

Long-Term Industry Investment

Skillz will allocate up to $75 million from its existing cash reserves to support the programme, with investment decisions made on a case-by-case basis. The company has stated that funds will be used not only for game development but also for promotion and marketing.

The accelerator is part of Skillz’s broader strategy to expand the skill-based gaming sector by supporting developers in bringing new competitive games to market.