Games Lift Kick-Off 2023 in New SPACE Innovation Rooms: Hamburg

The Games Lift Incubator 2023 officially commenced on September 11, 2023, marking the launch of a specialized support program for emerging game developers in Hamburg. Hosted at the newly established SPACE innovation rooms, the initiative serves as a collaborative hub designed to foster professional growth and project realization for selected independent teams. The program aims to bridge the gap between early-stage development and market readiness by providing a comprehensive suite of resources, including financial backing, expert guidance, and industry networking opportunities.

Five developer teams were selected to participate in the 2023 cohort: Monodot for Chaos Royale, Dottobeau for Dottobeau, Markus Koepke for Journey Beyond the Edge of the World, Pipapo Games for Map Map – A Game about Maps, and Bagpack Games for We the Valarii. Each team receives 15,000 euros in funding alongside access to a structured support system. This includes dedicated workshops, PR and marketing assistance, and individual coaching sessions with a panel of five industry mentors, including representatives from Osmotic Studios, THREAKS, and various management consultancies.

The incubator operates within the broader framework of Gamecity Hamburg, an organization dedicated to strengthening the local games industry through funding, networking, and professional development. By providing physical workspace at the SPACE facility, the program encourages a collaborative environment where teams can interact with peers and mentors. This initiative reflects a sustained effort to cultivate the regional games ecosystem by combining direct financial investment with long-term professional mentorship and infrastructure support.