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A trailblazing new initiative hopes to stimulate the growth of Surrey’s games sector

22nd March 2024

The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) in Surrey is trailblazing a new regional initiative, PixelRise, which aims to create a thriving ecosystem in gaming and become a beacon for creativity, innovation and inclusivity.

PixelRise is a Surrey-based games development cluster that will grow, diversify and support the gaming industry by raising industry standards, establishing new studios and helping develop new talent.

Cllr Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council cabinet member for highways, transport and economic growth, said: “We do need to recognise that strategic collaboration is critical for all of us to work together to develop the talent that we need in this industry, which is why we collaborated with UCA to commission a report to understand the barriers and opportunities to our local games cluster and how we can attract that growth in the area.

“We have seen a huge amount of grant income coming into the county, particularly in the CreaTech sector, so it’s a truly exciting time for Surrey’s games industry.”

The report, compiled by Steve Cuss of The Game Plan Consultancy, recognised the exciting potential of Surrey’s games cluster and how it could harness the regions collective expertise and resources to capitalise on significant innovation, talent development and economic growth opportunities.

“There is a potent case for collaboration,” said Steve. “If we look at the priorities of games developers in the region and the commercial environment, what we need is an initiative that unites and unlocks this potential across a diverse range of stakeholders. We believe that PixelRise provides this strategic solution, fostering an environment to address the challenges of the industry and take advantage of the massive potential in the cluster.”