The Ubisoft Indie Series presented by National Bank is an annual competition for independent game development studios, offering cash prizes, mentorship, and creative, marketing and financial tools to help local studios and their games reach new heights.
A competition designed to drive leadership in the videogame industry
Ubisoft is a supporter of the videogame ecosystem
Ubisoft opened its first Canadian studio in 1997. Since then, the company has played an active role in developing a passionate and creative ecosystem where studios, small and large, have collaborated to make the videogame industry shine on an international level. Making games is difficult and presents many challenges: financially, creatively, and more. This is precisely why we want to connect with our colleagues, share knowledge and expertise, and together, ensure Canada continues to grow as a game development leader worldwide.
The Bank is a supporter of Canadian entrepreneurs in the videogame industry
Our involvement in the contest builds on this history. National Bank was founded in 1859 by and for entrepreneurs. As we’ve grown, we’ve been there to guide tens of thousands of businesses through every stage of their development. Today, the Bank continues to serve as a key partner for businesses of all sizes. Our experts offer support to businesses in a variety of sectors and have extensive experience in developing business models for tech companies.
Does your studio Qualify?
Independent studios of no more than 50 employees, that are located in Ontario, Canada are eligible.
Studios located in Quebec are also eligible, click here for all details.
Application Deadline
Submissions Closed
Pitch Day
Up to ten (10) studios will be invited to pitch and demo their games before a jury comprised of Ubisoft and National Bank experts in April 2020. Winners will be announced at an awards event that night.
Prize
Grand Prize
The winning studio in Ontario will receive:
- Mentorship provided by Ubisoft experts to help with development according to the studio’s needs. (Max 30 hours)
- Personalized financial diagnosis and counsel provided by National Bank experts.
- Marketing support for the game.
- Internal and external communications activities to promote the collaboration between Ubisoft and the studio, locally and internationally.
- Entrepreneurial training experience offered by National Bank.
- $50,000 (CAD)
National Bank’s Special Prize
National Bank will determine, according to its own selection criteria, one (1) studio in Ontario who will win a Special Prize:
- Mentorship provided by Ubisoft experts to help with development according to the studio’s needs. (Max 30 hours)
- Personalized financial diagnosis and counsel provided by National Bank experts.
- $25,000 (CAD)
Studio
- The studio is independent.
- The studio is Canadian-owned in a proportion of at least 50% and is based in Ontario.
- The studio is composed of no more than 50 team members.
Game
- The game is at the beginning of its production phase.
- The game is original and shows great creative vision.
- The game shows a great potential for success.
- The game has received funding (love money, Canada Media Fund, crowdfunding, etc.).
- The following are not eligible for the competition: adults-only games, promotional games, school projects.
Game's Budget
- The game’s financial plan is sound and viable.
Cash Prize
- The studio describes how the $50,000 will be allocated and how it will help their game succeed.
Questions
Questions? Please contact Emily Claire Afan, Communications Manager Ubisoft Toronto.
Confidentiality and Regulations
Past Winners
2017
Grand Prize: Reptoid Games
2018
Grand Prize: Alientrap Games
National Bank Special Prize: Falling Squirrel
2019
Grand Prize: GLOAM
National Bank Special Prize: WashBear Studio
2020
Grand Prize: Vivid Foundry
National Bank Special Prize: Kitten Cup Studio
