Today, New Media BC announced the formation of a digital entertainment task force to tackle key competitive issues for this burgeoning industry. The taskforce, launched at the Vancouver International Game Summit, will speak to the needs of industry to grow its business, develop talent and remain competitive.

"Over the past 20 years, Vancouver has developed a reputation for being one of the best production centres in the world for digital entertainment. Today, we see that lead position being challenged," said New Media BC President, Lynda Brown. "Our industry is facing significant hurdles in the global marketplace and we're losing our competitive edge. To stay ahead, we must focus on new and innovative strategies that help businesses grow and stay in BC."

British Columbia is home to more than 138 videogame companies employing close to 3,000 people, generating $300 million in revenues and boasts presence from 4 out of the 5 major global publishers. The cluster has grown from small, independent studios to internationally recognized leaders. Despite the presence of these heavyweights, the emerging next generation of mid-size game studios are struggling in an increasingly expensive business climate.

Douglas Tronsgard, CEO of NextLevel Games and one of the committee members noted, "As we look to continue to grow our own mid-size studio, we're faced with increased competition on a global scale in a industry that has no boundaries. I have real concerns about our ability to expand our business in BC and to maintain our leadership position in this province."

The cross-sector committee, with representation from digital media, film, TV, and music, will work with industry and government to develop new strategies for keeping BC's digital entertainment sector strong, including issues of talent development, cost competitiveness and investment attraction. It will also work with partners of the Integrated Technology Initiative on large-scale issues that impact the overall technology sector with the goal of keeping the industry healthy and growing its presence in the province as an economic leader now, and well into the future.