One of Scotland’s leading technology entrepreneurs, Chris van der Kuyl, will visit Robert Gordon University (RGU) next month to share insights into innovation, entrepreneurship and the journey from developing global gaming successes to building original technology.
The co-founder and chairman of award-winning games developer 4J Studios will lead a free masterclass, Minecraft to Reforj: From Delivering Innovation to Building It, on Tuesday 3 November 2026, from 1pm to 3pm at RGU’s Garthdee campus in Aberdeen.
The session will explore why successful businesses must continue to evolve, what drives organisations to reinvent themselves and how new ideas can be transformed into valuable intellectual property and commercial opportunities.
4J Studios built an international reputation through its work developing Minecraft for Microsoft, Sony and Nintendo game consoles. Having helped deliver one of the world’s most recognisable gaming franchises, the company is now developing its own technology and original intellectual property through projects including Reforj.
Drawing on his experience across technology, gaming, media and entertainment, Chris will reflect on his entrepreneurial journey, share his perspective on Scotland’s innovation landscape and explore the role of community in supporting business growth and technological development.
The masterclass will include an opportunity for attendees to ask questions, exchange ideas and network with fellow entrepreneurs, researchers and innovators over light refreshments.
Alongside his role at 4J Studios, Chris co-founded Chroma Ventures with fellow 4J Studios co-founder Paddy Burns in 2021, establishing the company’s investment arm.
He also chairs Broker Insights and Ace Aquatec, sits on the boards of Parsley Box and Ant Workshop, and serves as a non-executive director of the Baillie Gifford US Growth Trust. He previously served as founding chairman of Entrepreneurial Scotland and continues to contribute to advisory and charitable organisations.
Elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh in 2013, Chris was awarded a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2020 in recognition of his contribution to technology.
Attendance is free, but advance registration is required. Registered attendees will receive the full venue details ahead of the event.
Register your place: Minecraft to Reforj: From Delivering Innovation to Building It with Chris van der Kuyl | November 2026 | Events | RGU
The event forms part of RGU's commitment to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation and knowledge exchange by connecting students, researchers and businesses with leading industry figures.