Description

In this episode:

Jordan sits down with Jason Della Rocca, co-founder of Execution Labs,  a hands-on early stage investor for independent game developers. Jason shares insights into venture funding for game studios. He discusses the phases of venture capital, common pitching mistakes, and essential factors investors look for in gaming startups. If you're a game designer or programmer considering creating a studio, this interview will help you get started on a path of success and sustainability.

Topics covered:

• How to create a clear road map of your project plan for your funding investors
• How to *not* do revenue share deals. 
• The mindset you need to succeed as an indie game developer.
• Jason’s journey into venture funding in the gaming industry.
• The mission of Execution Labs and its evolution over the years.

For more game industry tips:

• Learn more about Jordan & Bright Black
• Listen on iTunes | Spotify (Support the show and leave a review)
• www.playmakerspodcast.com for the full blog post and more!

Episode Timestamps:

03:14 Jason’s entry into the game industry

06:28 Running the International Game Developers Association (IGDA)

09:49 The birth of Execution Labs

12:12 Key lessons from early-stage investments

16:29 Balancing creative, business, and technical leadership

22:10 Incubators vs. accelerators

30:20 Understanding the early stages of game studio funding

37:40 Angel investors and venture capital

40:11 Stages of funding

46:16 Common mistakes in pitching for venture funding

52:17 The entrepreneurial mindset for indie developers

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• @JasonDellaRocca
• Execution Labs
• Gameplay Space
• Core Design
• Matro
• Ubisoft
• International Game Developers Association (IGDA)
• Tomb Raider
• John Carmack