Global Esports Federation
Strategic Growth | Partnerships & Ecosystem Development | Destination Impact
Overview
Partnered with the Global Esports Federation (as Strategy & Business Development Director, Cinematic) to shape their North American expansion by integrating competitive gaming with tourism, community development, and destination strategy. The work connected esports to broader economic ecosystems, driving value beyond tournaments to include local creative industries, hospitality, education, and technology.
Objectives
Position esports as a catalyst for economic development and placemaking, showcasing how tournaments and hybrid festivals can stimulate regional growth.
Create sustainable models for tourism and legacy programs tied to major esports events.
Build partnerships across government, DMOs, education, tech, and creative sectors to embed esports into long-term destination plans.
What I Did
Developed an integrated commercial and impact strategy for esports tours and events across North America, aligning them with city goals for tech, education, and creative economy development.
Crafted new partnership models with tourism boards, local governments, hospitality groups, and real estate developers to fund and host events, blending esports with local culture and placemaking.
Advised on hybrid event formats, bringing together tournaments, fan festivals, youth development, and business forums to expand audiences and create measurable economic impact.
Explored creative tech activations (immersive fan zones, digital twin venues, AI-driven engagement) to enhance both live and virtual experiences.
Designed legacy frameworks so host cities could continue benefiting from esports beyond a single event through youth programs, collegiate pipeline development, and community hubs.
Results & Impact
Helped secure multi-year commitments from destination partners, tying esports to their long-term tourism and economic development strategies.
Contributed to the roadmap for integrating esports activations into major multi-sport events, enhancing athlete engagement and cross-industry collaboration.
Advanced models that position esports not just as competition, but as a platform for creativity, innovation, and community storytelling, aligning with UN SDGs and inclusive growth objectives.
What I learned
Working on this project reinforced that esports is still in its early stages in North America, offering a rare opportunity to shape how it integrates with cities and culture. Destinations aren’t just looking for a weekend spectacle. They want lasting programs that strengthen local identity and community pride, foster innovation and drive economic opportunities. When thoughtfully designed, play is a powerful way for people to connect, learn, and grow together.
