MCV/DEVELOP News, events, research and jobs from the games industry
Game Republic said today it has secured its future with private investment, just 24 hours before its public funding runs dry.
The group’s sector manager, Jamie Sefton, has over the past few weeks been in talks with the Yorkshire and Humber region’s games companies.
"I’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the incredible support from Yorkshire’s games industry and universities," said Jamie Sefton, who now takes the role as managing director.
“Now we’ll be able to continue the work of the network to host regular events, access funding, encourage collaboration and bring major games companies into the region to help all our members,” he added.
Studios such as Sumo Digital, Revolution Software, Four Door Lemon and Just Add Water have each pledged their support for Game Republic, and are believed will each support the group financially.
Leeds Metropolitan University, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Bradford are also adding their support.
Game Republic holds industry events and networking meetings, on top of providing general support for its members.
The group’s funding was ultimately channelled via Yorkshire Forward, a regional development agency.
Yet Britain’s Coalition Government has in the last ten months looked to shut down the majority of regional development agencies, saving an estimated £270 million each year.
That decision had ultimately left Game Republic without public funds from the Yorkshire Forward arm, Screen Yorkshire.
In January, Screen Yorkshire announced it had “entered a consultation process with a number of staff regarding the future of their posts”, following the Coalition Government’s decision to cut funding.
With the aid of the studio and academic investments, however, Game Republic will continue as a private company.
