For its GDC 2010 edition in San Francisco, game business networking event Game Connection will introduce its Level Up promotion, granting free admission to five independent studios.
Game Connection, a "speed dating event for business-focused game makers," occurs every year in Lyon, France and in San Francisco, California concurrently with Game Developers Conference, but until this year its Level Up program was only conducted for the Lyon edition. This year's event runs March 8-10 in San Francisco's Moscone Center.
Until January 25, Game Connection organizers will be taking applications
at the official site from independent studios less than two years old. Selected studios will receive a full access pass (worth roughly $6,500), including a private meeting room. The program is open only to first-time Game Connection attendees.
"We were completely blown away. The show was extremely well orchestrated," said COO John Graham of independent studio Wolfire, according to a statement distributed by Game Connection.
"We got face time with Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo, Apple, Epic, Namco, Konami, 2K, Intel, AMD, Nvidia and Havok among others and all may lead us in extremely beneficial directions. We almost have more leads than I know how to organize!"
Organizers plan to announce the five winning studios next month.
