Game accelerator and investment platform Execution Labs has announced it is to step up its support for independent developers following a $6 million Series A funding round.

The money will be used to offer indies access to two distinct programs.

Firstly, the the Pre-Production Accelerator will offer up to CAD $50,000 in finding, shared workspace and mentorship for new game studios not yet in the production phase of development.

Based in Montreal, said accelerator will run for three months and is open to international applicants, covering all game platforms and business models.

Finishing first

Secondly, the Finishing Fund will provide “substantial funding” for experienced developers across the globe with games nearing completion, but require funds for final production, testing and marketing.

The assistance on offer will range from game design and data analysis to community building and user experience testing.

All this is possible because of the $6 million funding round, led by Toronto-based media giant Corus Entertainment. As a result of the investment, Scott Dyer - executive VP of strategic planning and CTO of Corus Entertainment - will join Execution Labs' board.

Existing investors BDC Capital, Real Ventures and White Star Capital also participated in the round.

"The goal of Execution Labs has always been to foster the development of independent game studios, and with the support of our incredibly generous mentor network we've been able to help talented developers launch great games and then go on to set up sustainable studios,” said Jason Della Rocca, Execution Labs' co-founder.

“With the injection of funds from Corus and our existing partners, we'll be able to keep fueling those new studios while ensuring that the top developers out there continue to get the funding and support they need to launch amazing new games."

Studios interested in either the Pre-Production Accelerator or the Finishing Fund can apply through the Execution Labs website.