Scotland targets an increase in its gaming industry, aspiring to reach over $1 billion in value by 2030

The Scottish Games Network has launched a plan to enhance Scotland's gaming industry, aiming for it to exceed £1 billion by 2030. This ambitious strategy, referred to as Scotland's Game Action Plan, seeks to position the country as a leading authority in creative technology globally.

First conceived with support from the Scottish government in February 2024, the strategy was developed through feedback from over 350 participants and numerous gaming companies over a period exceeding 18 months.

Key objectives include the creation of 20 new gaming studios and the development of 50 intellectual properties (IPs) with prototype funding by the year 2028.

The action plan envisions a "phased, de-risked approach" to build a comprehensive framework for the gaming sector, which will utilize current governmental resources and infrastructure. This initiative will align with several national ambitions set by the government, such as the National Strategy for Economic Transformation (NSET), the Scottish Technology Ecosystem Review (STER), and the Digital Economy Skills Action Plan.

Funding projections are inspired by successful models such as the UK Games Fund and Scotland's InGAME R&D Centre, leading to the creation of a "ready-to-implement" strategy. A pivotal component is establishing a physical hub that serves as the central point for the gaming community in Scotland.

The initial phase is a two-year pilot, tasked with building foundational elements and ensuring immediate strategic alignment. A chief games officer (CGO) will be appointed to direct a cross-portfolio working group for gaming, directly reporting to the Chief Entrepreneur of Scotland.

Under Phase One, initiatives like the Scottish Games Growth Catalyst Pilot Fund and the National Game Skills & Education Forum will be spearheaded by the CGO. The Catalyst Pilot Fund offers £5 million through two streams: Stream A for IP development grants up to £50,000, and Stream B for targeted grants up to £100,000 for work-for-hire studios eyeing international competitiveness.

Meanwhile, the National Games Skills & Education Forum will aim to converge industry leaders, educators, and government to match educational curricula with industry demands using current educational infrastructure to address skills deficiencies.

Additionally, the Games Enterprise & Sustainability Service is recommended to provide business support and guidance, delivered via pre-existing enterprise agencies.

In Phase Two, the plan is to establish the National Games Innovation Centre—a central hub to stimulate international investment and leave a lasting legacy for Scotland. However, the progression to this stage depends on the successful completion of Phase One.