Canada gives Ubisoft $4 million

In an effort to help cement Montreal's standing as one of the loci of North American game development, the Canadian government has announced it is giving Ubisoft CDN$5 million ($4.04 million). Administered by Jacques Saada, the Minister of Canada Economic Development and the Minister "responsible for the Francophonie" (that is, Canada's French-speaking culture), the money will be distributed over the course of three years.

Specifically, the multimillion dollar grant was issued to help Ubisoft Montreal become "the largest interactive entertainment studio in Montreal." It will pay for new computers and other equipment and help Ubisoft Montreal implement a planned staff increase to 2,000 by the year 2010.

"Ubisoft's project opens up very promising opportunities for the interactive entertainment industry in Montreal," said Saada. "Beyond its economic performances, it is an industry that builds on the talent and passion of men and women for whom no dream is too big. Economic development is that too: an exciting human adventure."

Although Ubisoft's headquarters is in Paris, its Montreal studio is responsible for some of the publisher's best-selling games, including the Splinter Cell and Prince of Persia franchises.