Hamburg Prototype Funding: Presentation of the Awarding Committee

The Hamburg prototype funding initiative serves to bolster the local games industry by providing financial support for the development of early-stage game projects. The primary objective of this program is to foster innovation and sustainable growth within the Hamburg region by identifying and backing promising game prototypes. By establishing a formal awarding committee, the initiative ensures that funding decisions are guided by professional expertise and strategic oversight.

The awarding committee is composed of five industry experts representing a cross-section of the games sector, including academia, independent development, and public administration. Members include representatives from Studio Fizbin, Rockfish Games, and Goodgame Studios, alongside officials from the Ministry of Culture and Media and the Gamecity Hamburg initiative. This diverse panel brings extensive experience in game design, live operations, studio management, and public policy to the evaluation process.

Selection criteria for the funding are centered on four key pillars: the promotion of young talent, project feasibility, market potential, and the overall impact on the Hamburg games ecosystem. Applicants are required to participate in a formal pitch session, allowing the committee to assess the viability and creative merit of each project directly. This structured approach aims to ensure that public funds are allocated to projects with the highest potential for commercial success and regional development. The initiative represents a targeted effort to maintain Hamburg’s competitive position as a hub for digital media and game development.