How to Find a Publisher for Your Board Game Concept

You've designed a board game — great! Here's how to connect with production companies.

1. Research & Identify Target Companies

• Audience & genre: Family, strategy, party, niche?
• Company size: Indie publisher vs. large established company.
• Specialization: Do they focus on card games, dice games, miniatures, etc.?

2. Resources to Find Publishers

• BoardGameGeek: Forums, publisher database, industry news.
• The Dice Tower: Website/podcast with designer/publisher interviews.
• The Game Crafter: Self-publishing platform & manufacturer connections.
• Trade shows: Gen Con, Spielwarenmesse (Nuremberg Toy Fair).
• Industry associations: Game Manufacturers Association (GAMA) member directory.
• Social media: Follow publishers on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn.

3. Prepare Your Pitch

• Concept: Clear, concise explanation of mechanics, theme, target audience.
• Unique selling points: What makes it stand out?
• Playable prototype: Essential for demonstration.
• Market research: Target market insights, comparable titles.
• Financials: Budget estimate, revenue projections.

4. Make Contact

• Direct email to publishing director/CEO.
• LinkedIn outreach to relevant staff.
• Phone call to publishing department.

5. Follow Up & Alternatives

• Be persistent but professional.
• If traditional publishing fails, consider crowdfunding (Kickstarter) or self-publishing.

Extra Tips

• Network with other designers at events.
• Playtest extensively and gather feedback.
• Expect rejection — it's normal. Keep refining.