UK-based innovation hub HOST has announced the launch of the HOST Esports Studio at MediaCity, Salford.
Alongside the launch, HOST has also announced partnerships with UK-based organisation Vexed Gaming and the University of Salford.
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The Esports Studio will offer a training ground for esports, as well as sporting local tournaments and acting as a central gateway for stimulating skills and employment routes for young people.
Mo Isap, CEO of IN4 Group, operator of HOST, commented: “The incredible explosion of the esports market is continuing at a global scale, and we are excited to be leading on this accessible esports skills programme with our partners Salford City Council.
“Our ambition is for MediaCity to be a beacon for esports talent across the region and to provide the industry with its next generation of pro gaming talent.
“Being part of the innovation ecosystem allows us to nurture local talent with the digital skills they need and support them into esports related careers, creating the most diverse, industry-ready talent that will help to drive prosperity in the region.”
According to the release, Vexed Gaming will support local talent at the Esports Studio alongside the University of Salford. Both entities will engage with young people interested in pursuing esports.
Mark Weller, Chief Gaming Officer of Vexed Gaming, said: “I am delighted to come on board and to secure a Manchester-based training ground for our professional teams here at Vexed Gaming and to support a local opportunity for young people to foster their passion for esports.
“Esports has provided me with a rewarding career, and we’re keen to invest back into our local community to build an esports ecosystem for everyone within Manchester.”
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To celebrate the launch of the Esports Studio, HOST is welcoming Manchester’s World Esports Day to MediaCity on Saturday 23rd October. This is in partnership with the University of Salford, Salford Esports and Salford City Council.
World Esports Day is a joint initiative set up by the British Esports Association, Twitch, the Singapore Esports Association (SGEA) and the Global Esports Federation.
Dr Maria Stukoff, Co-chair for Esport Industry Partnerships at the University of Salford, added: “This is really very powerful. This unique collaboration brings together local businesses and councils, esports professionals and educational giants all working together to develop a dynamic platform to engage with our local esports community and to connect talent straight into the industry.”
Esports Insider says: This is an amazing opportunity for young people in the UK interested in gaining valuable skills to pursue esports as a career. HOST is set to dominate the ecosystem in the North West along with the help of Vexed Gaming, the University of Salford and various local bodies.
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