Following conversations at DICE and GDC, we recognize that it is a complex time for Alberta’s interactive digital media community. Market conditions shifted rapidly, yet we see remarkable commitment to collaboration, professional development, and innovation.

Looking ahead, our focus is on continuing to support the local ecosystem with four key pillars based on conversations we’ve had with our membership, Alberta interactive digital media companies, and experts in our sector. These are:

• Get Noticed:
  • Objective: Equip Alberta’s indie and AA game studios with the skills and strategies to effectively capture attention in the evolving digital landscape.
• Elevate Your Skills:
  • Objective: Provide indie and AA studios with the resources and skills to create high-quality, innovative games.
• Build, Sustain, and Scale:
  • Objective: Empower indie and AA studios to achieve commercial success and contribute to Alberta’s economy.
• Expand Your Reach:
  • Objective: Ensure Alberta’s game development community is aware of and prepared to capitalize on emerging opportunities within the industry.

In order to achieve these pillar objectives we will be focusing on the following:

• Bring Opportunities for Sustainable Indie Studios: Through targeted mentorship and new partnerships, we’ll help small teams grow, stabilize, and plan for the future.
• Help Studios Towards AA Status: We’ll develop and share best practices and business opportunities that position Alberta’s indie studios for next-level success.
• National and Provincial Advocacy: We’re actively engaging both provincially and nationally to ensure that Alberta’s IDM sector receives the backing and recognition it deserves.
• Expand Mentorship & Workshops: Look for more frequent learning sessions tailored to industry needs, from funding strategies to technology trends.
• Host Alberta Games Series in Edmonton: Our flagship event moves north in October, offering even more opportunities to showcase local talent and encourage new connections.
• Collaboration First: In our province we have many people aligned in purpose, but operating separately, Digital Alberta will aim to work with and promote our sector allies like Calgary Game Developers Association (CGDA), Edmonton Unlimited, Calgary Economic Development, Edmonton Screen Industries Office, Platform Calgary, Interactive Arts Alberta, Lethbridge Game Developers Guild, Red Deer Game Devs, Bow Valley College, and Scaffold Institute.

On behalf of the entire Digital Alberta team, thank you for your continued dedication. Whether you’re a solo creator, an established studio, or a partner organization, your efforts drive our industry forward.

Warm regards,
Nick Facey
Chair, Digital Alberta