Exhibitor FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions and Answers
If you still have a question that you can't find the answer to, please contact GDC Sales Help for assistance.
Event Details
What is GDC?
The Game Developers Conference (GDC) is the game industry's premier professional event, championing game developers and the advancement of their craft. GDC brings the game development community together to exchange ideas, solve problems, and shape the future of the industry across five days of education, inspiration, and networking.
When and where is GDC 2025?
GDC will take place at the Moscone Center in San Francisco, March 17-21, 2025 with conference sessions taking place each day, Monday – Friday. This year’s event will deliver the industry’s greatest source of content and connections—with plenty of exciting talks, sessions, and networking events.
Who comes to GDC?
Attendees to GDC include programmers, artists, producers, game designers, audio professionals, business leaders, and more.
What exhibitor/sponsorship opportunities are available?
GDC offers many ways for sponsors to share their products and services with game professionals seeking new tools and techniques to make great games. Select from a range of exhibit space options in the GDC Expo that give you access to industry leaders and top talent for three days. Define market innovation with a custom Sponsored Session to show how your company can improve the game creation process. Or promote your brand with our portfolio of à la carte sponsorships!
Request more information to learn about sponsorship packages that will connect you to your target audience.
Exhibitor Services
What is the Exhibitor Portal?
After becoming a sponsor, you will receive access to the Exhibitor Portal. This includes event and operational information, co-marketing materials, passes to distribute, sponsorship deliverables, hotel and travel information, and more. Please contact GDC Customer Success with questions regarding access.
How do I access the Exhibitor Portal?
Once you’re a signed sponsor you will get access to the Exhibitor Portal via email. Log in to the Exhibitor Portal to register your booth staff for the event. This section is password protected. Please contact GDC Customer Success with questions regarding access.
What is the Exhibitor Services Manual (ESM)?
As your guide to operations and logistics at GDC, the ESM includes order forms for purchasing onsite furniture, utilities, and equipment. This will be available in your Exhibitor Portal. If you have an issue regarding show operations guidelines not covered in the ESM, please contact our Expo Operations Manager, Zach Holback for assistance.
How to become a GDC Exhibitor
Who do I contact to book GDC Exhibit space?
Please contact us via our request information form to learn more about GDC exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities.
What comes with the purchase of GDC Exhibit space?
Expo passes, staff badges, and discounts on conference and expo passes are based on booth size.
Who do I contact to participate at the GDC Expo as a recruiter?
Please contact us via our request information form and someone will be in touch to assist you.
Is there a deadline for becoming an exhibitor?
To maximize your exposure on the GDC website and marketing materials, we recommend you reserve your space at least three months prior to the event. Exhibit space is also limited to availability. If you are considering exhibiting, contact your account manager today for exhibition opportunities. See the current version of the GDC Expo floorplan here.
Hotel Reservations
How do I make hotel reservations?
GDC and Convention Housing Partners have secured discounted rates on hotels near the event. Book your room now through the official site for the best availability and lowest rates. For more information, email gdc@chphousing.com or call (US: 866-561-0540; International: +1-415-813-6088, option 6).
Passes & Staff Registration
How do I register for Staff Passes for my booth staff?
Register for your Staff passes in the Exhibitor Portal.
What is the difference between an Expo Pass, Exhibitor Staff Passes, and Single Session Passes, and what does each pass include?
Each GDC exhibitor will be allotted a number of Expo Passes and Exhibitor Staff Passes based on the size of their exhibit space.
Expo Passes allow access to the GDC Expo, sponsored content, interactive spaces, and Meetings & Networking via the GDC Mobile App. Expo Passes cannot be used to access the expo floor prior to the expo opening or after it closes each afternoon. Expo Passes can be distributed to members of your company who will not need access to the expo floor outside of expo hours and to clients/partners you would like to invite to the GDC to visit your booth and check out the event.
Exhibitor Staff Passes allow access to the expo floor to set up exhibit spaces before the expo opens and to secure it at the end of each day after the expo closes. Exhibitor Staff Passes should NOT be given to clients/partners who are not exhibitors at GDC. Exhibitor Staff Passes also allow access to interactive spaces, Meetings & Networking via the GDC Mobile App, and sponsored content. The Exhibitor Staff Pass has the equivalent pass access as that of an Expo pass.
Single Session Passes can be used for admission to any one conference session which would otherwise not be accessible based on the attendee pass type. Single Session Passes must be used in conjunction with a valid GDC badge. This pass will be handed out onsite.
How many Expo Passes, Exhibitor Staff Passes, and Single Session Passes do I receive for my booth size?
The quantity of Expo, Exhibitor Staff, and Single Session Passes you receive is based on booth size. For details regarding your passes, please contact your account manager.
Press Attending GDC
How do I obtain a list of the pre-registered press attending GDC?
Exhibitors will be provided access to the Press List approximately four weeks prior to the show in the Exhibitor Portal.
How can I maximize press visibility for my company and products during GDC?
To maximize press awareness, you can participate in our specially designed media sponsorship opportunities. Please contact your sales representative for more details.
Important Information for Sponsors and Exhibitors
Please note that you will receive official communications from the following legitimate vendors: Game Developers Conference (GDC), Informa, Freeman, Convention Housing Partners, ETS, Cross Connect Customs & Event Logistics, National Plant & Floral, Rezolvrizk and Swapcard. Any other communications related to hotel registration, exhibitor services or attendee list offerings are not supported by Informa and are considered unsecure. As your partner at GDC, we strongly advise you to avoid dealing with any third-party vendors. We have observed and heard about their unethical business practices over our 30 years of experience in the industry. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help you and ensure a seamless experience at the event.
Connecting the Global Game Development Community
