New Awards Show to Spotlight Innovation in Real-Money Gaming Startups

A new awards show exclusively focused on celebrating startup innovation in the real-money gaming industry is set to launch next year in New York. The Starties, co-produced by WagerWire and BettingStartups.com, will debut on March 12, 2025, at the NEXT.io Summit New York, marking a significant departure from traditional industry recognition events.

The initiative addresses a crucial gap in the gaming industry's ecosystem, where early-stage companies often struggle for visibility despite their innovative contributions. Unlike conventional awards that typically reserve a single 'Rising Star' category for emerging companies, The Starties will feature multiple categories specifically designed for startups, including Launch of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Startup of the Year.

The event has secured notable backing from key industry players, with Eberg Capital, an investment firm with stakes in major sports franchises including the Miami Marlins and Alpine Formula 1 Racing Team, serving as the presenting sponsor. Additional support comes from Defy the Odds, Optimove Ignite+, and Sportradar Futures Hub, reflecting growing institutional interest in the startup gaming sector.

This development signals a maturing ecosystem for gaming startups, potentially leading to increased investment opportunities and broader industry recognition for emerging companies. The creation of a dedicated platform for startup recognition could accelerate innovation in the real-money gaming sector, which has traditionally been dominated by established operators. The event's focus on community building and networking also suggests a shift toward more collaborative innovation in the gaming industry.