Paradox Interactive is freely releasing to independent developers the engine used for past games such as Europa Universalis II and Hearts of Iron.

Interested users do have to apply to use the Europa engine, but Paradox Interactive is promising to "offer each team or individual the same financial deal given to established publishers on the [GamersGate] platform." Presumably, this offer gives low-budget developers a chance to flex their muscles while boosting the portfolio of games available at GamersGate. Assuming that the Europa engine is a logical development platform for that project.

(see original source)