Gaming Clusters Across Multiple European Regions

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THE CONSORTIUM

Our consortium consists of 16 partners from 9 countries, bringing together expertise in social sciences, humanities, policymaking, the third sector, business, and innovation.

Project Coordinator

INOVA+, a leading EU R&I project management consultancy with over 25 years of experience fostering innovation, is the driving force behind GAME-ER. As the project coordinator, INOVA+ oversees all aspects of the project, from activity planning and objective tracking to ensuring compliance and coordination among task leaders. By leveraging its extensive experience in supporting R&D projects and securing funding, INOVA+ is committed to maximizing GAME-ER's impact and ensuring its success in the ever-evolving gaming landscape.

WP2 Leader

The University of Turin stands as one of Italy's largest universities, renowned for its openness to international research and training. It conducts scientific research and offers courses across all disciplines. The university plays a vital role in the community, contributing to the revitalization of urban and suburban areas, fostering cultural interaction, social integration, and development, and promoting dialogue and understanding of contemporary issues. As a key academic partner in the GAME-ER project, the University of Turin takes the lead in WP2, focusing on the analysis and understanding of the spatial organization of European video game clusters.

WP3 Leader

Leading WP3 within the GAME-ER project it will conduct a comparative analysis of case studies, developing a typology of European game clusters and providing strategic recommendations. CRG brings deep expertise in Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) research, specifically focusing on video games and cultural and creative industries. Their prior research has explored various aspects of the gaming sector, from technical evolution and game development to its broader impact on the creative economy and cultural consumption, enriching the GAME-ER project's understanding of this complex landscape.

École Polytechnique (EP), a prestigious French institution established in 1794, is renowned for its top-tier education and cutting-edge research in science and technology. Within the GAME-ER project, EP's expertise will be instrumental in various research activities, particularly supporting CRG in WP2 by applying advanced research methods to analyze the video game industry's state of the art, characterize clusters (especially the French cluster), and explore its connections with the industrial and innovation ecosystem. In WP3, EP will contribute to defining analysis and comparison tools for gaming clusters, while in WP4, it will actively participate in cluster data collection and provide comprehensive analysis of the French cluster.

WP5 Leader

The Czech Game Developers Association (GDACZ) is a driving force behind the Czech game development industry. By uniting over two dozen established and emerging studios, GDACZ fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing to fuel innovation and growth. In the GAME-ER project, GDACZ leads Work Package 5 (WP5), developing an interactive methodological toolkit with policy and practical recommendations for the gaming sector. Beyond GAME-ER, GDACZ champions a sustainable future for the Czech gaming industry through initiatives focused on education, employment, international representation, and industry visibility. Their comprehensive annual study provides invaluable insights into the landscape, informing efforts to strengthen and expand the sector. As a central hub, GDACZ connects businesses, facilitates partnerships, and empowers the digital game development community in Czechia.

WP6 Leader

Established in 2017, Spin System is a Brussels-based association fostering collaboration among researchers, companies,universities, and non-profits in European research and innovation. The association focuses on collaborative research for innovative solutions, maximizing opportunities within the Single Market and European funding landscape. As the leader of WP6: Communication and Dissemination in the GAME-ER project, Spin System ensures the project's impact reaches a broad audience. Spin System acts as an ecosystem, fostering co-creation and sustainable innovation strategies. The association also facilitates creative responses to challenges and supports companies in navigating the global market, acting as a catalyst for change. Spin System serves as a hub for EU project ideas, with a Brussels office acting as a liaison with EU bodies and a dedicated service for events like conferences and training seminars.

Novareckon, an innovative SME specializing in research and development (R&D), leverages expertise in product/process innovation and change management to drive organizational growth. Novareckon's capabilities in stakeholder engagement and dissemination strategy strengthen the GAME-ER project's WP6 (Communication and Dissemination). As an active participant in EU-funded R&D projects, Novareckon fosters multi-sectoral research within a broader innovation ecosystem. The company's work methodology prioritizes knowledge management and valorization, guiding client support and ensuring effective resource utilization. Operating through a multidisciplinary platform, Novareckon achieves effectiveness and efficiency by integrating new knowledge while managing existing assets. The company champions the belief that knowledge and skills management are crucial for organizational growth and resilience.

Founded in 1348, Charles University is the oldest and most prestigious university in the Czech Republic, consistently ranking among the world's top 250 universities. With 17 faculties across three cities, it offers over 950 accredited study programs, including many in English. Renowned for its world-class research, Charles University boasts numerous top-tier teams collaborating with international institutions. Students can actively participate in scientific research, and faculty members engage in prestigious projects like CERN and ERC grants. CUNI contributes to the GAME-ER project through its expertise in game studies, a discipline within the Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH). The university's researchers have a background in qualitative methods and will participate in the project's interdisciplinary approach, collaborating with various stakeholders to utilize SSH research for improving innovation and envisioning new models for growth and social cohesion in the European gaming sector.

OGR-CRT, a subsidiary of Fondazione CRT, fosters cultural activities and social inclusion through initiatives in various artistic fields and technological research. In 2013, it acquired the historic OGR-Officine Grandi Riparazioni complex in Turin, aiming to transform it into a hub for creativity and innovation. In the GAME-ER project, OGR-Torino, the consortium's sole large enterprise and owner of OGR Tech—a leading Italian innovation hub—provides crucial cluster expertise. OGR-Torino will conduct a pilot project to test key recommendations for the Turin cluster. A core pillar of OGR Torino's mission is education. Through its two sections, OGR Tech and OGR Cult, it offers multidisciplinary projects that engage diverse audiences, including those with special needs. OGR Torino designs activities for both in-person and remote participation, providing digital tools for schools, associations, and individuals to deepen their knowledge.

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes video game industry association is a catalyst for growth and collaboration in the region's thriving game development scene. By serving as a central hub, the association empowers regional studios through resources, support, and networking opportunities. It provides export assistance and tailored training programs to help studios navigate the complexities of the global market. To further strengthen the industry, the association is actively involved in structuring regional funding mechanisms for video game prototyping, nurturing emerging talent and fostering innovation. It also advocates for the needs of regional video game companies with official bodies and collaborates with educational institutions to align training with industry demands.

Plug and Play Tech Center is an innovation platform connecting startups with leading corporations,accelerating their growth through programs, partnerships, and investments. With a vast network and expertise in bridging startups, corporations, and investors, PNPTC is a key player in the GAME-ER project. In GAME-ER, PNPTC leverages its expertise to organize workshops for formulating final recommendations and conduct validation webinars with policymakers. Their mission aligns with the project's goals, driving technological advancement by fostering connections between promising startups and established corporations.

The Croatian Game Developers Association, established in 2014, is the driving force behind Croatia's thriving game development industry. With over 100 members, including major studios, CGDA promotes the industry on a global scale, making Croatia a leading destination for game development. In the GAME-ER project, CGDA's extensive networks across Europe will be instrumental in disseminating project outcomes and ensuring widespread adoption. The association's expertise will also enable partners like universities and SMEs to offer consultancy services based on the project's recommendations. Beyond GAME-ER, CGDA's mission is to support Croatian game developers through mentorship, networking, and funding opportunities. It advocates for policies that bolster the industry, organizes events like the Croatian Game Development Conference, and actively promotes Croatian game development to international audiences. CGDA's efforts have contributed significantly to the rapid growth of the Croatian game development industry.

The Brno Creative Cluster (HCC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing the creative industries in Czechia. By fostering collaboration, innovation, and education across various creative sectors, HCC empowers businesses, institutions, and individuals to thrive in a dynamic environment. The organization provides essential resources, networking opportunities, and professional development programs, while actively promoting the region's creative talent both nationally and internationally.

The Municipality of Fundão is a local government entity located in the Castelo Branco district of Portugal. Committed to promoting sustainable development and enhancing the quality of life for its residents, the municipality focuses on initiatives in education, culture, tourism, and economic growth. With a rich historical and cultural heritage, Fundão offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, making it an attractive destination for visitors and investors alike.

WP4 Leader

Abertay University, located in Dundee, Scotland, is a modern, innovative institution renowned for its excellence in teaching and research, particularly in the field of video games education. With a strong focus on preparing graduates for the workforce, Abertay offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines,including business, computer science, creative technologies, and health sciences. As the leader of WP4 in the GAME-ER project, Abertay University will analyze cluster case studies to uncover local dynamics and conduct a final comparative analysis to inform the project's findings.