Scottish Games Industry Releases Manifesto Calling for Government Support Ahead of Parliament Election

Why It Matters

Government support could unlock investment, create jobs, and keep Scotland at the forefront of the rapidly evolving global games industry.

Key Takeaways

• Industry seeks comprehensive policy review for games sector.
• Calls for long‑term funding, pilot schemes with investment bank.
• Demands expanded computing education and funded apprenticeships.
• Manifesto backed by studios nationwide and UKIE.
• Aims to boost Scotland’s global games competitiveness.

Pulse Analysis

The Scottish games sector has long been a cornerstone of the nation’s digital economy, contributing millions in export revenue and supporting a dense cluster of studios from indie houses to AAA developers. Ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliament election, Interactive Entertainment Scotland, with the backing of UKIE and studios across the country, published a manifesto that seeks to translate that creative strength into concrete policy commitments. By framing the appeal as a pre‑election priority, the industry hopes to capture political momentum and secure a clear roadmap for growth.

The manifesto’s first pillar calls for a task‑and‑finish review of existing policy, aiming to align gaming incentives with broader creative, enterprise and innovation strategies. It also urges the Scottish Government to improve data collection, enabling more targeted investment decisions. On the funding front, the document proposes long‑term financing for proven programmes and the creation of pilot schemes, potentially in partnership with the Scottish National Investment Bank. Such mechanisms would provide the stability needed for studios to scale, attract foreign capital, and compete with other European hubs.

Talent development forms the third pillar, with specific demands for wider access to Computing Science and Digital Creativity curricula in schools, as well as funded apprenticeships and reskilling pathways for existing workers. By embedding digital creativity throughout the education system, Scotland can sustain its pipeline of skilled developers, artists and producers. The anticipated outcome is a boost in high‑value jobs, increased export potential, and a stronger position in the rapidly evolving global games market—benefits that extend beyond the sector to the wider Scottish economy.