Annual fundraiser celebrates game industry achievements and raises funds to provide scholarships and opportunities for the next generation of game creators
WASHINGTON, D.C. – January 5, 2026 – The ESA Foundation (ESAF) today announced that individual tickets are now on sale for its annual Nite to Unite gala, taking place March 10, 2026, at the historic Palace Hotel in San Francisco, California.
Tickets are now available for purchase here.
Nite to Unite brings together leaders from across the video game industry to celebrate impact, strengthen community, and raise critical funds that fuel ESAF’s mission to empower future creators through scholarships, mentorship, and support for nonprofit organizations serving youth in STEAM.
“We’re honored to host the annual Nite to Unite fundraising event for the 24th year and we’re continually inspired by the young innovators impacting the video game industry,” said Sue Madden, Executive Director of the ESA Foundation. “The funds raised at this event do more than provide funding—they create opportunities, provide scholarships, foster mentorship, and help students build the confidence to succeed.”
Guests at this year’s gala will enjoy an evening of entertainment, networking, and community building, all in support of broadening opportunities for the next generation of game developers and innovators. Sponsorships for Nite to Unite are available, and the foundation is also welcoming donations for the fundraising auction. More details about contributions can be found here.
Proceeds from Nite to Unite directly benefit ESAF’s scholarship programs and charitable initiatives. To date, the Foundation has awarded more than $20 million in grants and scholarships to students pursuing careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Mathematics, and game development, as well as to organizations that use video games for educational purposes.
For sponsorship details, individual ticket sales, and more information, visit the Nite to Unite event website.
About the ESA Foundation
The ESA Foundation awards scholarships to the next generation of industry innovators and supports schools and nonprofits that leverage interactive entertainment technology to create meaningful STEAM opportunities for America’s youth. It seeks to harness the power of the video game industry to create positive social impact and supports geographically diverse projects and programs benefitting grantees of all ages, races and genders. To date, the ESA Foundation has raised more than $23 million for a wide variety of worthy causes, primarily through its signature fundraising gala, Nite to Unite.
Kaila Fuller 
Michael Fertitta