From the Press Release
The Virginia Serious Game Institute (VSGI), the only one of its kind on the East Coast and one of only four global affiliated facilities, supports and accelerates early-entry entrepreneurship into the simulation, modelling and serious game design industry. Its mission is to support translational applied-research, rapid prototype development, high-value knowledge job creation and regional economic development through start-up business incubation and spin-out of high growth companies leading to commercialization. The Institute offers new business incubators cutting-edge computer design research and development, access to visualization and simulation software, training, product development, business support and rapid-prototyping.
Call for Applications: Each year the VSGI invites applicants to reside in the business incubator located on the George Mason University - Prince William Campus, Prince William, Virginia. An Advisory Board of distinguished investors and industry experts judge and select the qualifying candidates. This year capacity has increased to allow seven (7) new start-ups to enter the VSGI, effective July 1, 2015.
Deadline: Online Applications are available here: http://game.gmu.edu/sgi/vsgi-residency-application-2015 and should be sent no later than midnight May 1, 2015 to Dr. Scott M. Martin at email: smartin4@gmu.edu. Each application requires submission of a business plan summary or company one-page summary. Additional information to support the documentation is permitted. Any questions regarding the application submission process can be directed to Stephanie Burton at email: sburton3@gmu.edu or tel: (703) 993-7033.
Judging criteria: Applications are considered on how well the business plan or proposal encompasses the development of product software, hardware or Information Technology services and financial feasibility. Merit is given to businesses or initiatives with projects or concepts that add significant value in the realm of research, development and innovation to industry.
Selection announcement: Finalists will be contacted in late May and published in June.
Post-Selection criteria: After selection, entrepreneurs and startups will negotiate and sign an agreement indicating a timetable of completion for their business plan /project submission and occupancy lease rates of $500-600 per month, dependent on space allocated. The VSGI will provide an office with state-of-the art telecommunications and data services support, receptionist and concierge services, kitchenette and conference room access with Tele-Conferencing, access to business plan writers, advisors, and mentors, as well as legal support and IP services consulting, banking and external server-farm support from VSGI partnered companies, access to a talented Mason student internship and potential employee pool, free parking for clients and guests, and Freedom Center Indoor Pool/Gym Membership.
Should you or anyone you know be interested in participating in the Virginia Serious Game Institute please complete and submit the application by May 1, 2015.