Microsoft and Creative England relaunch Greenshoots games initiative

The latest round of Microsoft and Creative England’s Greenshoots games initiative is now open, and this year the amount of available funding has been doubled to £500,000. 

Greenshoots was established with a view to helping English game developers - based outside of Greater London - kick-start development, promote their games, and create jobs. Last year 17 teams from around England benefited from the programme, which helped secure the release of titles including Warhammer 40,000: Freeblade and Crime Coast.

"The creativity and success of past games and the fantastic teams behind them is what makes this programme exciting," said Jaspal Sohal, head of games and digital media at Creative England.

"Not only is Creative England uncovering hidden talent across the country but this is also an unmissable opportunity for games companies to work with Microsoft and benefit directly from their support and guidance."

As well as an increase in funds, this year’s programme will give companies the chance to enroll in Microsoft’s ID@Xbox scheme. Investors and publishers will also brought into pitching sessions to help developers secure additional funding.

Interested parties must apply before the deadline on October 30.