The newly formed Indian Gaming Esports Association (iGEA) is to integrate a full suite of B2C and B2B esports services for tribes and tribal casinos through a partnership with Esports Entertainment Group (EEG).
Online gaming and esports solutions provider EEG has become the exclusive provider of esports technology and services to iGEA, the a tribal esports organization devoted to advancing esports adoption among tribal nations and casinos.
The partnership also includes Spectrum Gaming Capital, which will bring its relationships and strategic capabilities to assist the development of the venture.
“Indian Gaming has historically been a key driver of industry evolution, and with our entrance into esports, we plan to keep our nations at the forefront of gaming’s newest trends,” said Ernest Stevens III, who is chief executive of iGEA and chairman of the National Indian Gaming Association.
“Esports Entertainment Group has the vision, expertise, and, most importantly, the assets for a turnkey business operation and future-minded strategy that aligns with the best interests of tribes and tribal casinos; no need to re-invent the wheel.”
iGEA plans to support formation and training of tribal teams and leagues to compete regionally and nationally as well as internationally.
“This is a tremendous opportunity to pioneer a massive untapped market,” said Grant Johnson, EEG’s chief executive.
“We look forward to providing iGEA the tools and technology necessary to execute on their vision of building and leading the esports ecosystem for tribal nations.”
Last month, EEG agreed to acquire Swedish gaming business Bethard for approximately $27m (£19.1m/€22.1m) in the latest activity of what has been a busy M&A period for the group.