Utrecht, September 6, 2024
After 17 years of being a leading incubator and cluster organization for the Dutch games industry, Dutch Game Garden regretfully announces that it will close its doors as of January 2025. This decision was made due to changes in opportunities and focus for public funding, which makes it no longer possible to realize a balanced budget that allows the continuation of activities in a responsible manner.
Since its foundation in 2008, Dutch Game Garden has developed itself into a cornerstone of the Dutch games industry. The organization has played a crucial role in the growth and development of countless start-ups and established game companies. Over the years, more than 130 companies have participated in its incubation program. More than 150 companies have had an office in Dutch Game Garden’s cluster, allowing them to pursue and realize their creative ideas. Successful companies from this ecosystem include Tover, Studio Deloryan, and Abbey Games.
Dutch Game Garden has always provided fertile ground for innovation and collaboration within the entire Dutch games industry, from students and start-ups to established triple-A studios. The annual event INDIGO is a prime example of this. What started as a small showcase for student games, had grown throughout 15 editions into an indispensable game business event that brought together the entire Dutch games industry and gave new talents and businesses a platform to connect. Additionally, Dutch Game Garden played a key role in mapping the sector through the Games Monitor. The organization was involved in various innovation projects with knowledge institutions in the Netherlands and Europe.
Peter Laanen, Chairman of the Board: “It is with a heavy heart that we have had to make this decision. We are proud of what we have achieved over the past 17 years and the effect that our efforts have had on the Dutch games industry. Unfortunately, we are now forced to close our doors, but we look back with satisfaction on everything we have accomplished together.”
Jan-Pieter van Seventer, managing director: “In the coming months, several regular activities, such as the successful Network Lunches, will continue as planned. We thank all our partners, employees, companies, and the entire game community for their support and trust during all these years.”
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