UKIE's Video Games Growth Programme Welcomes 30 New Studios

Jan 26, 2026, 2:43 AM

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The UK Interactive Entertainment (UKIE) has announced the selection of 30 studios for its second Video Games Growth Programme, designed to foster the growth of the UK's vibrant gaming industry. This initiative, which launched its inaugural cohort in 2024, is supported by Tencent, a leading global gaming company, and the UK Department for Business and Trade.

The Video Games Growth Programme aims to assist ambitious studios in scaling both creatively and commercially. Participants receive expert-led sessions and a structured curriculum facilitated by Player One Consulting. Tencent's involvement also includes providing valuable insights to the cohort.

The 2026 cohort is split into two distinct tracks: the Accelerator, aimed at emerging studios, and the Scale-up track, designed for companies that are looking to expand further. UKIE CEO Nick Poole expressed enthusiasm about the new group, stating, "This Programme is about giving them the tools to scale with confidence, and we're excited to support their next stage of growth." He highlighted the importance of the creative and diverse talent within the UK video games industry.

The UK video games sector has been recognized as a powerhouse of growth, generating over £2 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA) and expanding faster than the broader creative industries. It plays a significant role in job creation and exportation across the nation. Sir Chris Bryant, the UK Minister of State for the Department for Business and Trade, emphasized the UK's position as Europe's leading games market, supported by initiatives like the new £30 million Games Growth Package.

The following studios are part of the 2026 cohort:.

Accelerator:.

Fireslug Studios.

Miami Avalon.

Outer Pixels.

Derailed Arts.

Wise Monkey Entertainment.

South Westerly Games.

Games Alchemist.

Hyperfocus Games.

Dash Games.

Grave Mistake Games.

Flora Games.

Grace Films.

Slap Bang Digital.

Seventh Disorder.

Panda Cat Games.

Team Folon.

Scale-up:.

[Remaining studios to be announced.].

This initiative not only underscores the commitment to nurturing talent within the UK gaming sector but also reflects the growing global interest in video game development. With Tencent's backing, the programme is set to enhance the capabilities of these studios, positioning them for future success in a competitive market.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, UKIE's initiative represents a significant step toward maintaining and expanding the UK's influential status within the global gaming community. The combination of innovative ideas and strategic support is expected to yield exciting new titles and advancements in game design and technology.

With the ongoing developments in the video game industry, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence and innovative gaming technologies, programs like these will be crucial in ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of gaming innovation and creativity.

The success of the Video Games Growth Programme will be closely watched as it unfolds, with expectations that it will bolster the UK's position in the global gaming market and inspire a new generation of game developers.

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