Building Games in Alberta: Fireside Chat with NAIT & Industry Leaders
Building Games in Alberta: Fireside Chat with NAIT & Industry Leaders
Join us for an in‑person fireside chat during Edmonton Startup Week 2026, bringing together NAIT instructors who are also active founders in Alberta’s game industry, alongside leaders from local studios. This session digs into what it really takes to build and grow game companies in Alberta — from early‑stage entrepreneurship and funding pathways to production realities, talent development, and the future of interactive digital media in the province.
Whether you’re a student, emerging developer, founder, or part of Edmonton’s broader tech community, this conversation offers practical insight, candid stories, and a chance to connect with people who are building Alberta‑made IP every day.
Confirmed Speakers
NAIT Representatives
• Clinton Bowman – Casual Instructor, NAIT; Director & Chief Creative Officer, GHOAT LABORATORIES Inc.
• Kyle Kulyk – Instructor, NAIT; Managing Director, Itzy Interactive
• Jennifer LaFace – Instructor, NAIT; Producer, Only By Midnight
Industry Representatives
• Caghan Bonnough – Director, EmberSails
Potential Mystery Guests (Pending Confirmation) These guests are currently in discussion and may join depending on scheduling:
What We’ll Cover
Building and scaling game studios in Alberta
• Entrepreneurship and founder lessons learned
• CMF funding, publishing, and commercialization
• Talent development and workforce growth
• The role of post‑secondary institutions in supporting industry
• Emerging technologies and AI in game development
• The future of Alberta’s digital entertainment sector
Event Details
• Doors Open: 5:30 PM
• Program: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Date: Thursday, October 8, 2026
• Location: NAIT Main Campus — Room TBA
• Parking: TBA
• Entrance: TBA
This event is part of Edmonton Startup Week 2026, a week‑long celebration of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community collaboration across the city.