Christophe De bont 
09/01/2019
The European Commission has published a new call (link in Dutch) for ‘Supporting Video Games’ to promote the development of video game concepts or projects intended for commercial exploitation on the European and international market that present originality, innovative and creative value, cultural diversity and an enhanced portrayal of Europe’s cultural identity and heritage.
This call is open to all European independent video game companies that can prove they have produced a video game which has been commercially distributed during the two years preceding the call. Applicants must also be able to present a sales report and own the majority of the rights related to the submitted project. Individuals, groups of companies and legal bodies acting in the public interest (e.g. universities, foundations …) may NOT apply for a grant.
Who can apply?
The applicant must be located in an eligible country (link in Dutch only) and have a proven track record (defined as release of at least one game that was commercially distributed during the two years preceding the call i.e. January 1, 2017). Only legal bodies that have their offices in Europe and that own the majority of the rights related to the submitted project can apply.
The games are judged by independent experts on overall quality, originality, innovation and creative value. Besides that there must be a commercial drive behind the project. Of note: all games require a narrative component but your game doesn’t have to revolve around the story. For example: games like Trine 3, SteamWorld Heist, games that value gameplay over storytelling, have been funded in previous years.
What can you apply for and how much money is there to be had?
The game must be a video game (regardless of platform), be intended for commercial use and the first playable prototype may not be scheduled within 8 months of the date of application.
This year the European Commission provides a total budget of € 3,78 million. Applicants can ask for a grant between € 10.000 and € 150.000 but the contribution can’t exceed 50% of the total development cost.
Want to apply?
Of course you want to follow in the footsteps of Fishing Cactus, who received a grant of €77.000 for Nanotale – Typing Chronicles last year. In 2018, there were only three Belgian entries, so let’s do better this year!
To be able to participate, you must first register yourself and your organisation with the European database. Once you have done this, you can submit your application. The deadline for this call is February 27, 2019. Online submissions can be done until 12 AM CET (noon). You can start your registration (link in Dutch only) right now. The lovely people over at EGDF even were so kind to create this wicked checklist to see if you’re eligibile for a grant and to clarify what you need to include in your application. Good luck!
