УКР Leleka Foundation is partnering with leading Ukrainian creative and cultural organizations to support a major fundraising initiative during the first in-person Ukrainian Games Festival during the Game Developers Conference week.
Taking place on March 10–11, 2026, in San Francisco, the two-day pop-up showcase will highlight Ukrainian indie game developers while raising funds for tactical medical suplies for Ukrainian frontline medics through Leleka.
The event is scheduled during the Game Developers Conference week and will be held at 530 Bush Street, just steps from the Moscone Center. Admission is free and open to the public with advance registration.
Turning creativity into lifesaving support
Proceeds from the festival’s charity auction will be directed to Leleka, which has supported Ukrainian frontline medics since 2014. Funds raised will be used to purchase tactical medical equipment and emergency supplies for use in combat and evacuation settings.
By partnering with the festival, Leleka expands its mission beyond traditional humanitarian channels—connecting medical support with Ukraine’s growing creative and technology sectors.
“The event demonstrates how technology, culture, and philanthropy can intersect—transforming creative platforms into tools for saving lives and sustaining Ukraine’s resilience,” said Svitlana Kostylova, Leleka`s co-founder. “Every auction bid and every donation helps turn global attention into real medical support.”
A platform for Ukrainian developers
The Ukrainian Games Festival gained international attention in 2025, generating more than 2.4 million views on Steam during its online edition. The San Francisco event marks its first physical showcase.
Visitors will be able to play ten Ukrainian indie games, attend an industry panel, enjoy traditional Ukrainian cuisine, and take part in interactive cultural activities.
The pop-up is organized by Palaye Agency, the Ukrainian Games initiative, Leleka Foundation, and the Consulate General of Ukraine in San Francisco.
The partnership reflects a growing effort to combine cultural diplomacy with humanitarian support, ensuring that global interest in Ukrainian innovation translates into tangible help on the ground.
Event details
Where: 530 Bush Street, San Francisco, CA
When: March 10–11, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Admission: Free with advance registration (no GDC badge required)
What to expect
- Games Showcase: Playable demos of ten Ukrainian titles
- Industry Panel: Conversations with developers working under wartime conditions
- Ukrainian Cuisine: Traditional dishes for attendees
- Photo Zone: Themed photo experiences
Charity Auction: 100% of proceeds go to Leleka for medical aid