November 2, 2021 -- Women in Games International is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Activision Blizzard, with the largest grant in our history of $1 million, to help fund important professional development and mentorship programs. 
 
Jen Oneal, board member of Women in Games International and former co-leader of Blizzard Entertainment, will leverage her 20+ years of experience in game development to help guide the planning and roadmap for the programs. This grant furthers Activision Blizzard’s and CEO Bobby Kotick’s commitment to support and increase diversity across the gaming industry.
 
“Our goal with this grant is to drive diversity, equity, and inclusion within our industry,” said Jen Oneal. “This donation from Activision Blizzard is an investment in the future of women in games, and a great step toward lasting, impactful change. I couldn’t be more excited to work together with the WIGI team. Through our collective focus and expertise, the partnership is full of potential.” 
 
“This generous donation will help us further expand our mission to advance economic equality and diversity in the global games industry,” said Careen Yapp, Chairman of the Board of Women in Games International. “We look forward to working with Jen in developing new programs, as well as continuing to grow the many resources WIGI has already implemented - all with an eye toward building a far richer future for women in games.” 
 
“This is a landmark grant for WIGI,” said Joanie Kraut, CEO of Women in Games International. “In July, we were honored to be named by the Activision Blizzard employees as a resource to combat discrimination, harassment, and inequality, and we were humbled by the overwhelming response of support from individual donors and partners. With the funds from Activision Blizzard, we can significantly support the advancement of women in the global games industry by continuing to develop and administer impactful programs and workshops focused on mentorship, self-advocacy, and career advancement.”


Established in 2005, Women in Games International (WIGI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Los Angeles, California, with a mission to cultivate resources to advance economic equality and diversity in the global games industry. Key programs include the Power Leveling Series, Get in the Game, Mentorship Programs, and Safe Space Networking Events. WIGI is committed to investing its expertise and resources to highlight and celebrate women making an impact in the global games industry. The WIGI team is comprised of seasoned industry professionals who seek to activate and empower the global community of women in games and their allies.
 
For more information: getwigi.com