The Supercell AI Innovation Lab will return with a hub in spring 2026. san francisco, helsinkiand Tokyowill provide free computing, workspace, housing support and mentorship, as well as a kick-off in Lapland and a final showcase at our Finnish headquarters.
of 9 week program Designed for founders and builders working on AI x gaming concepts. CEO and co-founder Ilkka Paananen frames the initiative around creativity acceleration, writing: “AI is giving creative developers superpowers.”
Jessica Jung, leader of the AI Innovation Lab, echoed the “platform shift” framework, calling AI: “This is a generational opportunity to reinvent gaming and create a new category of interactive entertainment.”
Spring 2026 timeline and 3-city format
The Spring 2026 batch is scheduled to run from. From March 23, 2026 to May 23, 2026with application Closed on February 22, 2026. Supercell lists the cohort kickoff as a one-week gathering. Arctic Build Camp in Finnish Laplandfollowed by the main program of the selected hub, and finally final showcase.
What participants will get and what Supercell expects
Supercell is positioning the lab as a founder and builder program for individuals or small teams (up to three people) pursuing “groundbreaking” AI entertainment and gaming products. Package includes:
- Office space, tools, computing and housing support
- Access to Game Mentor and a cohort-style community.
- Demo opportunity at Supercell headquarters in Finland
Supercell also mentions outstanding participants Continued partnership routes may be considered after the program ends. This includes potential pathways into the incubator for new games, recruitment discussions, funding discussions, etc., but we stress that participation is free and does not guarantee investment.
Eligibility via hub and in-person requirements
What the company is looking for is be physically present throughout the duration of the program At the location of your choice. We have also published guidance on hub-specific qualifications.
- San Francisco: Open to valid builder US work permit
- Helsinki: open to EU or UK resident
- Tokyo: open to Japanese taxpayer have the legal right to work as a contractor
Please see the official website here.
