Germany backs first German Pavilion at IAAPA London under VDFU patronage

Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs funded a first "German Pavilion" at IAAPA in London, where supporting members of the Verband Deutscher Freizeitparks und Freizeitunternehmen (VDFU) were able to show their products under the association's patronage, without major organisational effort and at reduced cost.

The 2026 federal budget provides €125m for the so-called federal games funding, administered by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space. The funds are non-repayable grants for the development of computer games and prototypes.

Reportedly, the leisure industry segment ranging from local arcades and family entertainment centres (FEC) to large leisure parks is still far from such funding amounts. The outlet reported that support is to be provided again next year.

The report was written by Steffen Hanak, editor-in-chief of games & business, who described the pavilion as a good sign.