A 'GREENSHOOTS' Northern Ireland support programme for early stage start-up game studios has been launched by Northern Ireland Screen and Microsoft.
Greenshoots NI offers financial support of £20,000 each for five companies to develop a game title for release on Xbox One, Windows PC and mobile platforms.
With Lottery funding from the Arts Council of Northern Ireland through Northern Ireland Screen, Greenshoots NI is open to all Limited companies based in Northern Ireland and will include a package of technical support and business expertise.
The aim is to support studios to develop "new intellectual property" and reach a global audience while exploring further export market opportunities, said NI Screen's chief executive, Richard Williams.
"Working with Microsoft to bring Greenshoots to Northern Ireland is a great way for us to work directly with industry to help our local game developers reach their commercial and creative potential," Mr Williams said.
"Digital content is highlighted as a key priority in our latest strategy and we are committed to supporting the sector with funding and expertise, in order to create an ecosystem where the most innovative companies can flourish."
Michael Meagher, partner business evangelist, Microsoft Ireland, added: "Microsoft is delighted to support this great initiative. There is great talent and innovation in Northern Ireland and we are confident that the Greenshoots programme will help to foster and further encourage this talent.
"Gaming allows great creativity and we look forward to seeing the response to this great programme."
Anyone interested in applying for the programme should visit the Northern Ireland Screen website. Deadline for applications is Friday, November 13.
