Whitethorn Games announced Thursday it has received a $1.2 million investment from Erie Insurance's Opportunity Zone Fund.  

The deal will lead the way to job creation and development of downtown Erie, according to Whitethorn founder Matthew White. 

Whitethorn is an early-stage venture company that develops and publishes wholesome video games to all major home game consoles. The company has signed 15 titles, released five, and is currently in the development process of two games being developed in Erie. 

The company will purchase and refurbish a building on 12th Street in downtown Erie. The startup company currently employs eight, with plans to expand to up to 25 employees within 3-5 years. 

The investment was made possible by Erie Insurance, which established a $50 million Qualified Opportunity Zone investment fund in August 2019. Whitethorn is the first investment since the inception of the fund. 

James Grunke, CEO of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership (ERCGP), which introduced Whitehorn to Erie Insurance, says this proves Erie is open and ready for business. 

"We are thrilled to see the first investment into an Erie opportunity zone between Erie Insurance's Opportunity Zone Fund and Whitethorn Games," Grunke said. "According to our projections, this industry is positioned to bring 100 additional jobs in game design, software, computer systems, and data science and analytics into Erie over the next five years." 

Grunke says 2,000 students graduate each year with degrees related to this field. 

"Investing in companies like Whitethorn Games creates a way for newly-graduated young professionals to remain in Erie and showcase their talents in our community," Grunke added.