As one of Canada’s fastest-growing creative sectors, the video game industry is creating new economic opportunities for communities across the province, and OCAD University’s gaming event Level Up Showcase plays a key role in bridging student innovation with regional industry demand.
Designed to connect emerging talent with leading studios, publishers, and tech companies, the event gives students a real-world opportunity to present their games, gain valuable industry exposure, and take meaningful steps toward careers in the gaming industry.
For many students, Level Up marks their first direct entry point into the professional world as they engage with top industry professionals, receive valuable feedback on their work, and build connections that often lead to internships, job offers, and long-term collaborations. In a sector with over 820 active video game studios across Canada and one that contributed $5.1 billion to the country’s GDP in 2024, these early connections are critical to launching successful careers.
The event also allows industry professionals to experience student work firsthand, exchange insights, and identify promising new talent that is contributing to the growth of local companies and the development of a skilled, creative workforce.
For more information, visit OCAD University.
