Fourteen startups have been accepted into the Sunderland esports accelerator.
- Four new businesses from the North East are part of the program.
- The accelerator aims to foster growth in the esports sector and create jobs.
- Participants will engage in sessions on financial management and digital marketing.
- Founders will pitch to investors at the program’s conclusion.
Fourteen promising startups have been selected for participation in a new esports accelerator program in Sunderland, initiated by British Esports in collaboration with Sunderland Software City. Among these startups, four hail from the North East, highlighting the region’s commitment to nurturing technological innovation.
The program is designed to propel the esports sector forward, fostering the creation of new jobs and promoting economic growth within Sunderland. Spearheaded by Sunderland Software City, in partnership with British Esports, the initiative is set to take place at the National Esports Performance Campus.
Participants in the eight-week accelerator will receive mentorship and guidance from industry experts. The curriculum encompasses key areas crucial for business development, such as financial management, international expansion, digital marketing strategies, intellectual property protection, and investment preparation.
A competitive selection process saw 100 applicants evaluated by a panel of tech experts, which included representatives such as David Dunn and Hekla Goodman-Parker from Sunderland Software City, and Dave Martin from British Esports. Selection criteria focused on the viability of business ideas, market opportunity potential, team expertise, and product market fit.
Regional startups involved include Durham-based BSL AR Teacher, which focuses on teaching British Sign Language using augmented reality technologies, and North Shields-based Beam XR, specializing in live-streaming tools for XR games. Gateshead’s Reset Reload offers an online platform for aspiring esport athletes, while Racing Sims North East from Morpeth blends motorsport passion with innovation.
Additional participants hail from various locations, with companies such as HD Games, ESG Gaming, Smash Mountain Studio, Verus, and Convergence Live Ltd representing London. Nexus Interactive Ltd and Immerzion Developments Ltd come from the Scottish Borders, and Good Game Truro is based in Cornwall. From Derby, DS Performance Sports joins the ranks, while international venture Gamlytics—an esports analytics platform—is also part of the cohort.
As the accelerator progresses towards its conclusion on November 1, startups are anticipated to showcase their growth through pitching sessions to potential investors, aiming to secure funding for future expansions.
The Sunderland esports accelerator stands as a beacon of growth and innovation in the gaming industry, fostering new talents and preparing them for the competitive market.
