Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), through its digital entrepreneurship center Code, has launched “Code 966,” a new program designed to grow the local gaming industry. In partnership with Savvy Games Group and Excel by Mirak, the initiative aims to empower Saudi entrepreneurs and developers to build innovative electronic games and establish viable startups in the sector.
Quick Facts
- Launched by MCIT’s Code center, Savvy Games Group, and Excel by Mirak.
- A 3-day Game Jam kicks off the program for all participants.
- Top 10 teams advance to a specialized 3-month incubator program.
From Game Jam To Incubator
The program begins with an intense 3-day Game Jam, a creative challenge where developers, designers, and entrepreneurs collaborate to form teams and build playable game prototypes based on a specific theme announced at the start. This initial phase is designed to spark new ideas and identify promising concepts in a competitive environment.
Following the Game Jam, the top 10 teams will be selected to join a specialized 3-month incubator. This stage moves beyond the prototype, focusing on developing a minimum viable product (MVP). Teams receive dedicated support to test their game’s market viability, refine the user experience, and build a sustainable business model to prepare for a commercial launch.
A Structured Path To Market
Code 966 provides participants with a comprehensive support system guided by more than 12 local and international experts in gaming and entrepreneurship. The program is structured around four key tracks: Game Programming, Game Art, Game Design, and Game Marketing/Entrepreneurship.
Participants will benefit from specialized workshops, one-on-one mentorship sessions, and a dedicated “Game Day” where they can showcase their projects to real players for direct feedback. The program culminates in a Demo Day, where the teams will present their refined projects to a panel of investors, publishers, and industry partners to explore investment and partnership opportunities.
About Code 966
Code 966 is a government-backed initiative by Saudi Arabia’s MCIT, developed in partnership with Savvy Games Group and Excel by Mirak. The program combines a game jam and a business incubator to support Saudi talent in developing innovative electronic games and building successful startups. It provides mentorship, training, and strategic guidance to transform creative ideas into market-ready products and sustainable businesses within the Kingdom’s growing gaming sector.
Source: Sabq
