Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub: Boosting Gamedev Growth

The Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub is set to solidify the city’s role in the games industry across Central and Eastern Europe. Once the heart of Poland’s coal mining industry, Katowice is rapidly transforming. A recent significant development is the European Commission’s approval of 192 million euros in public aid for the construction of the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub. This investment marks a pivotal moment in the city’s ongoing evolution. If you’re interested in learning more about Katowice’s games industry potential and opportunities, we’ve gathered valuable insights – not only because we collaborate with gamedev players based there, but also because we know the city well.

Katowice’s Transformation: From Coal Mining Centre To Business Hub

Katowice, located in southern Poland, was for many decades the country’s capital of coal mining. After the fall of communism in 1989, during the 1990s, when Poland transitioned into a democracy and its job market began to change rapidly, the region struggled. Compared to other large southern Poland cities like Kraków or Wrocław, Katowice (and the whole Silesia region) faced years of social and economic gloom.

Fortunately, those difficult times are now behind. Over the past several years, Katowice has worked hard to reinvent itself as a modern business and cultural center. Major investments have helped reshape the city’s image. Former industrial spaces have been converted into striking landmarks, including the International Congress Centre, the Silesian Museum, and the home of the National Polish Radio Symphony Orchestra, many of them built on former mine grounds.

Beyond these centrally located flagship sites, districts like Nikiszowiec have undergone thoughtful revitalization, balancing their historic charm with modern functionality. Initiatives like Fabryka Porcelany, which turned a defunct porcelain factory into a creative and entertainment complex with cafés, coworking offices, and cultural events, show the city’s broader vision.

These projects, among other initiatives, not only beautified the urban space but helped reduce pollution and combat unemployment. Today, about 42% of Katowice is covered in greenery, unemployment sits around 1.5%, and average salaries are among the highest in Poland. The city’s transition is a strong example of how post-industrial areas can successfully modernize while honoring their heritage.

Katowice’s Gamedev Ecosystem

Katowice is no stranger to the game development world. The broader Silesian region is home to around 70 game development and esports companies, with many of them located directly in Katowice. The long-standing presence of Intel Extreme Masters has firmly established Katowice as the esports capital of Poland, recognized not only nationally, but also on the international stage.

Noteworthy studios include Artifex Mundi, Anshar Studios, founded in Katowice and known for creating complete games from concept to launch, and Incuvo, the Katowice-based studio of People Can Fly focused on VR. In 2018, global gamedev player Keywords Studios also established operations in the city, further underlining its international appeal.

The presence of such prominent players, combined with the fact that the Silesia region is home to top-tier technical universities producing highly skilled graduates, makes Katowice one of the best places in Poland to look for qualified game developers, especially if you’re considering on-site or hybrid team arrangements.

More than just housing companies, it’s clear that Katowice fosters a gamedev ecosystem, one that supports creativity, business growth, and community building. Initiatives like the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub are the latest proof of this commitment, aiming to give both established developers and emerging talent the space and resources to thrive.

The Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub Investment: Boosting Gamedev Growth

The recently approved 192 million euros in public aid from the European Commission marks a turning point for Katowice’s ambitions in the gaming and tech industries. The funds will support the creation of the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub, a purpose-built center for gaming, technology, and AI development on the grounds of the former “Wieczorek” Coal Mine. While not located in the city center, the hub is being developed in the Nikiszowiec district, a creatively revitalized part of Katowice. Known for its distinct Silesian architecture and post-industrial charm, Nikiszowiec offers a unique atmosphere that blends heritage with modern flair, making it a fitting home for a forward-looking gamedev initiative.

This investment aims to drive economic growth in the creative sector and support the region’s ongoing shift from heavy industry to innovation. The first construction phase of the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub will focus on transforming historical mine buildings into contemporary spaces equipped for startups, studios, and collaborative projects.

Plans for the second phase include a 5,000 square meter venue designed for esports events, television production, studios, warehouses, and labs. More than just a real estate project, the Katowice Gaming and Technology Hub is intended to be a springboard for talent, investment, and innovation, cementing Katowice’s role in the Central and Eastern European gamedev space.

We have the opportunity to work closely with gamedev professionals and studios in Katowice – and we’re witnessing the momentum in real time. If you’re considering building your game studio presence in Katowice or anywhere else in the world, we’ll be happy to provide insights and expertise based on our recruitment experience and deep understanding of the local and global talent landscape.