Kajaani Game Catalyst, recognized as Finland’s biggest growth program for game companies, has opened applications for the next round of its pre-incubator phase, GameLAB.
Applications may be submitted individually or as a team, and the deadline is 23 November 2025.
GameLAB marks the starting point of the program’s three-phase structure, which supports new game companies in the Kainuu region. The upcoming cycle will begin in January 2026.
“Our mentor network includes world-class experts and a proven coaching model that truly helps teams move forward.”
Joonas Pylvinen, Project Manager at Kajaani University of Applied Sciences
Kajaani Game Catalyst operates under the Kainuu GEMS project, coordinated by Kajaani University of Applied Sciences (KAMK) and co-funded by the European Union and the City of Kajaani. The initiative covers GameLAB for early-stage concept development, a game incubator that prepares teams for entrepreneurship, and a business accelerator focused on growth and funding.
“Kajaani Game Catalyst is a nationally significant initiative and possibly Finland’s largest program focused on developing game entrepreneurship. Already in its first year, it has brought a remarkable amount of private seed funding and new potential companies to Kainuu.”
Joonas Pylvinen, Project Manager at Kajaani University of Applied Sciences
GameLAB is a one-year hands-on learning program where participants gain practical experience in game development and teamwork, aiming to publish a game and prepare for forming a company in Kainuu.
Applications are open to students, employees, freelancers, entrepreneurs, and job seekers. Individual applicants may also be matched with teams seeking specific skills. While no company or business ID is required, a basic understanding of game development is recommended. Applicants from outside Kainuu are welcome, provided the registered office of the future company will be located in the region.
“The selection emphasizes experience, motivation, and team potential, with priority given to existing teams that share a clear idea.”
Joonas Pylvinen, Project Manager at Kajaani University of Applied Sciences
In the previous round, the program received more than 60 applications, from which five teams were selected.
The broader Kainuu GEMS (Game Entrepreneurship Mentoring to Success) project aims to build a pathway for developing growth-focused game entrepreneurship in the region and support the establishment of new companies. The project is co-funded by the European Union.
Image Credit: Kamk.fi
