AUSTIN, Texas – Sept. 13, 2018 – The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) and Interactive Entertainment Professionals (IEP) today announced a new collaboration to improve the commercial viability of independent game studios through online based learning opportunities and webinar programs.

Initially the education initiative will consist of a series of online learning videos and AMA style webinars with leading industry experts. The first four topics to be covered include: Financial Fundamentals,  Working with Contracts, Business Continuity Planning and Managing Your Brand and Reputation.

The free webinar based program will launch late 2018, with a more robust on-demand learning program available for IGDA members to purchase in 2019.

“This year the IGDA embraced a new mission statement focused on supporting and empowering game developers around the world in achieving fulfilling and sustainable careers,” said Jen MacLean, executive director, IGDA. “A critical component of this is providing access to education and best practices that not only help individuals, but also promote more sustainable studios and job stability for the workforce. We chose to partner with IEP, because it offers some of the industry’s best workforce education programs in this area.”

“While there are many institutions that teach technical skills, IEP focuses on improving the resilience, agility and commercial viability of video game individuals and their organizations,“ said Greg Short, president, IEP. “Our collaboration with the IGDA will help business operators prepare for the rapid change and dynamic forces that exist in the video games industry.”

About the International Game Developers Association (IGDA)

Now in its 24th year, the International Game Developers Association is the largest non-profit membership organization serving individuals who create games. The association exists to support and empower game developers around the world in achieving fulfilling and sustainable careers by connecting members with their peers, promoting professional development and advocating on issues that affect the developer community.

For more information, visit the official website or follow the IGDA Twitter and Facebook.

About Interactive Entertainment Professionals (IEP)

With insights from veterans across the industry, Interactive Entertainment Professionals (IEP) is the leading provider of continuing education and workforce transformation programs for the video games industry.  IEP programs are delivered via online, offline and blended solutions with contributions from more than 400 industry experts.

By providing greater access to fundamental knowledge and best practices, IEP supports the development of industry professionals capable of achieving greater impact in their video games careers.

For more information visit www.iepro.com.

Media Contacts

Lena LeRay / Robert Brown
Stride PR for IGDA
lena@stridepr.com / robert@stridepr.com

Greg Short
IEP
greg@iepro.com