Katowice is transforming the site of the former Wieczorek Coal Mine into a state-of-the-art Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB — a flagship initiative within the city’s strategy to foster innovation and develop the creative industries.

Katowice District of New Technologies

The project “District of New Technologies – Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB” aims to create a collaborative space for representatives of the tech and gaming sector. The investment includes the revitalization of post-industrial buildings in the Nikiszowiec district, turning them into a vibrant ecosystem for technology companies, game developers, and the e-sports community — providing facilities for tournaments, broadcasting, and event production.

Katowice has long been recognized as a European hub for e-sports, hosting prestigious events like Intel Extreme Masters, and drawing a global gaming audience. The new Hub seeks to solidify the city’s position as a leader in gaming and technology by providing infrastructure for businesses, co-working spaces, recording studios, and facilities for e-sports organizations

More Than Gaming

“Gaming and e-sports are just a part of the plan. We will also create R&D labs and educational programs focused on AI. This isn’t a random idea – it stems from cooperation with global companies that have partnered with the city for years.” said Dr. Marcin Krupa, Mayor of Katowice, in a recent interview.

Marcin Nowak, CEO of Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB, shares this vision, emphasizing that their strategy is built on four core pillars. Beyond gaming, the strategy includes fostering AI collaboration, accelerating tech education, and strengthening the local startup ecosystem. The HUB will build a community-driven platform for the so-called ‘Golden Triangle’ of business, education, and public administration.

First Companies Are Already Setting Foot in Katowice

Although the HUB is still under development, interest from global companies is already strong. Even before the pandemic, Katowice signed a letter of intent with Intel, which was scouting international locations to pilot its gaming technologies. Since then, nearly 200 companies have expressed interest in setting up operations within the HUB.

We now know who the first major tenant will be: ESL Gaming. During Intel Extreme Masters, ESL Gaming Polska and the Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB officially announced a strategic partnership, marking a significant milestone for the project.

Niszikowiec: Tradition Blends with Modernity

Nikiszowiec, a historic Katowice district known for its unique architecture will undergo a transformation that blends tradition with modernity. The transformation of the former mining grounds is symbolic of Katowice’s broader shift — from a center of heavy industry to a knowledge- and innovation-driven economy.

The creation of Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB is divided into three stages:

Stage I involves adapting 8 historic buildings and constructing a connecting passage. The total usable area of approximately 32,000 sqm will include:

• 7,500 sqm of office space (open-space, coworking zones, private offices);
• 3,500 sqm designated for 69 conference rooms, serving as an educational center.

Stage II focuses on constructing a new facility that will include:

• A 5,000 sqm multifunctional hall primarily for e-sports studios, television production, industrial halls, warehouses, and laboratories;
• 5,300 sqm of production support space;
• Seating and infrastructure for up to 2,000 guests.

Stage III covers the technological and non-technological equipment of the buildings. This stage includes:

• Implementation of renewable energy solutions;
• Installation of a telecommunications network, server rooms, and conference room equipment;
• Outfitting studios, halls, and laboratories with advanced technological gear.

Join Poland’s Gaming Sector!

Poland is one of the global leaders in video game development — known for its innovation, talent, and world-class production quality. With strategic investments like the Katowice Gaming and Technology HUB, the industry is growing faster than ever. According to the Polish Agency for Enterprise Development, the domestic gaming market is now valued at over €470 million and continues to expand.

If you’re looking to open your Polish branch in one of the fastest-growing EU countries, get in touch with us today!

Main Photo Source: Pracownia AMC | Andrzej M. Chołdzyński | www.amcholdzynski.pl