DunDev: The Springboard to Success

The DunDev residential program serves as a strategic accelerator for early-stage independent game development studios in the United Kingdom. By providing a four-week intensive hothousing experience in Dundee, the initiative aims to equip emerging developers with the professional skills, business acumen, and industry connections necessary to achieve sustainable growth. The program focuses on bridging the gap between creative game design and viable commercial operations through a combination of mentorship, expert-led workshops, and practical industry exposure.

The 2026 cohort featured four selected studios—Nostalgicat, Mothlight Studio, MVGIE Studios, and Jardus Games—who participated in a curriculum structured around weekly thematic pillars. Key activities included individualized sessions with industry veterans, public play-testing events at Dundee Contemporary Arts, and private pitch sessions with publishers. These engagements were designed to stress-test game concepts and refine business strategies in a real-world environment. The program concluded with a formal showcase in partnership with the Scottish Game Developers Association and a final pitch session for potential grant support from the Prototype Fund.

This initiative highlights the importance of localized, intensive support structures in fostering the UK’s indie game ecosystem. By facilitating direct access to established industry experts and providing a platform for public and professional feedback, the program accelerates the development lifecycle for high-potential startups. The success of the cohort is measured by their increased professional readiness and their ability to navigate the competitive landscape of game publishing and funding. The outcomes of the final grant pitches serve as a critical milestone for the participating studios as they transition from the residential program back to their independent operations.