Ekrem Imamoglu
We established OGEM to support game developers living in Istanbul, prepare them for competition in the gaming world, and help them showcase their games globally.
What is OGEM?
OGEM is a hub that brings together all game enthusiasts in Istanbul, offering three main programs:
- Free training for anyone excited about game development.
- An incubator program for young game developers, providing support at every stage.
- A children’s incubator program offering age-appropriate training on entrepreneurship and game development for primary school students.
OGEM Incubator Program
Since December 2021, OGEM has been organizing three four-month incubator programs annually for young entrepreneurs in Istanbul who want to develop games.
- Over 40 games have been developed through the program.
- Mobile games have been downloaded more than 1 million times, and PC games have reached 45,000 users.
- 15 teams from the program have established companies and entered the gaming industry.
Opportunities Offered by the OGEM Incubator Program
Participants in the OGEM Incubator Program can:
- Use shared workspaces for free.
- Join a network of developers.
- Learn about job and internship opportunities in game development.
- Attend events and training sessions.
How to Apply for the OGEM Incubator Program
To apply, you must have a team with a published game or a game ready for release within four months. If you meet these criteria, you can fill out the application form at ogem.istanbul. Application periods can be tracked on OGEM’s website and social media accounts.
OGEM Children’s Incubator Program
Launched in October 2022, the OGEM Children’s Incubator Program welcomes primary school students, especially from disadvantaged areas, to provide training on entrepreneurship and game development. The program also includes cultural tours around Istanbul, offering children a fun and educational experience while broadening their horizons.
During in-person sessions, children are picked up by bus, taken on a Miniatürk tour, enjoy lunch together, and then participate in Entrepreneurship Awareness Training at OGEM.
- To date, students from nearly 40 schools have participated.
- By the end of 2025, the program aims to reach 1,200 students from 24 schools.
How to Apply for the Children’s Incubator Program
Applications for the program, which accommodates 40 students per session, can be submitted by school principals, vice principals, or teachers. Applications are free and can be made via ogem.istanbul.
Free Events at OGEM
In addition to its incubator programs, OGEM hosts free training sessions, talks, and panels, welcoming thousands of game enthusiasts.
- Over 200 events have been held, with more than 100 open to the public, attracting 10,000 young game enthusiasts.
- Collaborations have been made with game clubs from universities such as Istanbul Technical University, Turkish-German University, Bilgi University, Beykoz University, and Bahçeşehir University.
Where is OGEM Located?
OGEM is located in the Şişli district, easily accessible by public transport. Take the metro to Mecidiyeköy Station and walk a short distance to reach the center.
Address: Habitat Yaşam Merkezi, Merkez Mh. Abide-i Hürriyet Cd. No:211 İç Kapı No:7, 34381 Şişli
Email: [email protected]
