Algoma University recently launched its inaugural Startup GameJam, a two-day intensive game design and development session in Brampton, led by expert instructors from Unity Technologies Inc.
The inauguration was attended by key figures from the community, including Mayor Patrick Brown, Jaipaul Massey-Singh, CEO of the Brampton Board of Trade, and Devin Ramphal, Innovation and Technology Sector Manager from the City of Brampton Economic Development Office.
Throughout the GameJam, participating students were given in-depth training on game development, including market research, business plan creation, and crafting compelling pitches. They also developed essential technical skills to create games using Unity, one of the world’s leading platforms in the gaming industry.
“We are incredibly proud to see Algoma University taking bold steps into the game development sector. With the gaming industry expected to be valued at over $300 billion globally by 2026, this initiative puts Brampton and Algoma University at the forefront of an exciting and lucrative field,” said Mayor Patrick Brown, City of Brampton. “The Startup GameJam is not only a great opportunity for students but also for the local economy, as we aim to foster more tech-driven businesses and startups right here in Brampton.”
Following the two-day Startup GameJam, students worked in teams to create game prototypes and develop their pitch decks. On September 27, each team presented their prototype to a panel of judges from Unity and Algoma University.
The winning teams were ‘PlayMaker’ placing first, ‘The Yappers’ placing second, and ‘Mythic Knights’ placing third. The teams received awards valued at $3000, $2000, and $1000, respectively.
The GameJam marked the beginning of Algoma University’s new game incubator, part of the university’s new National Centre of Excellence for Immersive Technology.
All participating teams that successfully developed game prototypes will be supported by the incubator in the 2024-25 fiscal year, giving them the tools, resources, and mentorship necessary to transform their concepts into fully-fledged game studios. This entrepreneurship development initiative underscores Algoma University’s recognition of the rapid advancement of immersive technology and the need to equip students with cutting-edge skills in this thriving sector.
“Algoma University is committed to preparing our students for the rapidly progressing world of emerging technologies like augmented reality, virtual reality, and extended reality,” said Algoma University President and Vice-chancellor Dr. Asima Vezina, PhD. “This initiative ensures our students have the advanced skills they need to thrive in these evolving industries, including gaming, retail, entertainment, education, healthcare, manufacturing and tech-driven entrepreneurship. We are providing them with the tools and support to not only succeed but to lead in these high-growth, transformative sectors.”
The National Centre of Excellence for Immersive Technology at Algoma University is looking to drive innovation by offering students a chance to learn from industry experts and develop skills that are in high demand in today’s technological landscape. The Startup GameJam and the incubator program demonstrate Algoma University’s commitment to fostering creativity, entrepreneurship, and technical expertise, setting a new standard for education in game development and immersive technologies globally.
For more information on the Startup GameJam, please click here.
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