Big Game Hunting
IC Tomorrow, a Technology Strategy Board programme designed to bring digital entrepreneurs and investors together, are busy making connections. Not for themselves, mind you, but rather for the game developers and VFX specialists whose ideas are ready to take the big step-up.
Here we give you the lowdown on two upcoming events that should be in the diaries of all companies and developers interested in getting their work into gamers' greedy hands.
Fancy £25k?
Aimed at the European games sector, IC Tomorrow have launched their latest Digital Innovation Contest. In partnership with some of the UK's biggest games and tech brands — Sony Computer Entertainment Europe (SCEE), Crytek UK, Intel, Google Chrome, ODEON Cinemas and Pinewood Studios — the contest is offering a total funding pot of up to £125k (five awards of up to £25k). The content is open to any EU-based companies or developers.
In addition to receiving £25k in prototype funding, winners (who will retain their intellectual property) will benefit from the exposure to a range of key games stakeholders. It isn’t necessary to have an existing app or service, or to be currently active in the games industry in order to apply. More information on the five challenge categories can be found here.
Potential applicants are encouraged to come along to the briefing event on Wednesday 19 September in London (2-6pm at Rich Mix, E1 6LA). The brief is a great opportunity for anyone who is thinking about entering the contest to hear about the challenges directly from the contest partners, and to ensure that their application fits the judging criteria.
The briefing will also be available to watch via live webinar for anyone unable to attend in person. Register here.
Need for Speed!
IC tomorrow, alongside the Creative Industries KTN, will also be hosting a speed-networking event offering innovative digital start-ups the opportunity to meet the leading organisations and commercial partners in the UK's visual effects (VFX) industry.
The event will take place on Wednesday 25 September at 6:30pm at The Hospital Club (Covent Garden, London) and will focus on connecting leading VFX commercial partners with talented digital innovators. Part of the Technology Strategy Board’s soon to be launched £15M Cross Platform Production Tools in Digital Media competition (announced by the Chancellor in March) it's an opportunity for companies to gain valuable exposure for their business by meeting and speed pitching to noteworthy individuals from companies including The Imaginarium, DNEG, MPC Film, and The Foundry.
There is a short form to complete by Monday 16 September for companies interested in attending.
So there you have it, two opportunities to make good on the ideas you’ve either been developing or dreaming up. Whether you're starting-up, a fledgling digital entrepreneur, or an investor wanting to stay ahead of the market, be sure to look out for more events and opportunities from ICTomorrow.
Photo (cc) Mellyjean.
