TIGA increasing support for UK industry

UK trade body TIGA has revealed a swathe of new support resources which it will be making available to UK game developers, specifically services dedicated to independent studios looking to self-publish games, and companies planning to exhibit at Lyon's Game Connection in November.

Self-publishing developers can look forward to more events, seminars and mentoring sessions from senior industry figures, as well as a new Corporate Members area of TIGA's website dedicated to the trials and advantages of self-publishing.

There will also be quarterly meetings of a newly-formed Self Publishing Group, a forum where industry specialists will share information on the current state of the self-publishing market. The full range of services will be available this Autumn.

"The decision to ramp up our self publishing services is born out of the incredible diversity that now exists within the UK interactive sector in terms of size, location and scope of business," said TIGA chief executive Richard Wilson.

"Developers now have access to more options in terms of platforms, genres, distribution and funding. The old work-for-hire model is still alive but is now accompanied by a range of other opportunities and routes to market that do not involve traditional publishing. TIGA is committed to helping our members navigate these changes by providing access to expert advice and support.”

TIGA will also be providing £1000 funding to eligible companies looking to attending the Game Connection trade fair this year in Lyon.

Partnering with the UK Trade and Investment Tradeshow Access Programme, TIGA hopes to help UK companies to attend the industry networking event, where they can expect to meet other companies involved in every stage of the development and publishing process, as well as potential investors.

Game Connection Lyon will take place November 16 to 18, 2010. Discounted tickets are available until 4 September.