Multinational organisation Gen.G Esports has announced a $1 million (£757,655) foundation to develop “the next generation of leaders” in gaming.
The Gen.G Foundation has committed $100,000 (375,765.50) on an annual basis for the next 10 years.
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The fund will provide support to “women, people of color, and low income students” that are enrolled in a university or college in the United States. The inaugural class will include 10 students, dubbed “Gen 10,” with applications opening on September 15th. The chosen applicants will be unveiled in December.
Chris Park, CEO of Gen.G, spoke on the foundation in a release: “The gaming industry has only scratched the surface of developing talented young gamers who can lead the industry’s next generation. This and future classes of the ‘Gen 10’ will strengthen the diversity and representation that gaming needs to reach its full potential.”
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Gen.G has announced University of Kentucky, Eastern Michigan University, Silicon Valley Bank, and Bumble as partners of its foundation for its inaugural year.
Al Guerrero, Managing Director at Silicon Valley Bank, added: “We know that education, opportunities and investment are keys to creating a more level playing field in esports and beyond. Silicon Valley Bank has a long history of championing the next generation of innovators, including within esports, and we’re excited to support Gen.G in their efforts to ensure that diversity, equity and inclusion are top of mind for the esports industry.”
Esports Insider says: With this foundation, Gen.G has made it loud and clear that it’s looking to push for change in the industry, allowing minorities in esports to gain access to support that could well help them make some noise in esports and gaming.