Super League Gaming, the community platform that offers an array of competitions, content and social aspects for amateur gamers has secured $15 million (~£11.5m) in Series C funding.
The funding comes from a variety of interesting sources, including Nickelodeon, DMG Entertainment, Jeffrey Vinik (owner of Tampa Bay), aXiomatic as well as various other funds. Super League Gaming has now raised more than $28 million, having earlier secured additional funding.
The platform operates certain tournaments such as the League of Legends intercity tournament and the second season is set to launch soon across the USA.
“Esports is exploding in popularity around the world, but the current landscape is lacking an open, easy access point for aspiring gamers and enthusiasts to connect and participate,” said Ann Hand, CEO of Super League Gaming. “With our online and live in-person events, we’re leading the way in bringing gamers into esports in a safe, fun and socially rewarding way. Our city-based clubs add a sense of belonging and fandom currently missing from esports.”
“We are excited to enter the world of esports through our relationship with Super League, which has a loyal and growing fan base of kids,” said Matthew Evans, Executive Vice President of Digital and New Business, Nickelodeon. “Nickelodeon is interested in esports because gaming is an important passion point for kids today, and forging this partnership with Super League puts us at the forefront of where kids will be playing next.”
“Fans worldwide are ravenous for esports, both as spectators and players. No one is better than SLG to bring organized amateur esports to the biggest markets in the world,” said Dan Mintz, CEO and Co-founder of DMG Entertainment. “We are excited to partner with SLG and expand its footprint globally.”
“In my career in professional sports, the most exciting thing is the energy and enthusiasm that fans show for their city’s teams,” said Jeff Vinik, owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning. “Go to any Super League event, and you will see the same energy of players and fans cheering for their city’s team that we see in the NHL.”
Esports Insider says: Impressive investment again for SLG. We’re looking forward to seeing how they utilise the capital and what initiatives they launch moving forward.