Rémi Racine, Director of Artificial Mind & Movement (A2M)

A2M is the largest independent video game company in Canada. How did you get started?

Rémi Racine - In 1994, when I started out, no one was making video games in Montreal, even though it was the birthplace of 3D. The world of video games was developing mainly in Japan, where there was still only 2D. Today, a large part of our production is based on known content. We're working on games based on films like Happy Feet and Iron Man, and next year we'll be releasing an Indiana Jones.

Why is Montreal such a central hub in the world of video games?

R. R. - It all started with the invention of 3D, which led artists and programmers to take an interest in this new medium. That's how the culture of virtual entertainment was born here. At the end of the 90s, seeing that this was a growth area, the government launched a programme to help companies develop in this market, the "Multimedia Tax Credit". This programme is still in place and is helping young people to get started.

What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs who want to get started?

R. R. - First of all, I'd tell them to come and work in Montreal to build up a good address book. The city attracts a lot of creative people who gravitate towards multimedia. But while this effervescence is beneficial, it also means that there is a lot of competition. And despite government aid, the capital required is higher than it used to be, since it is mainly SMEs that dominate the market. But if I had to do it all over again, I'd do it again. That's for sure.