The introduction of The Starties awards show on March 12, 2025, at the NEXT.io Summit in New York, signifies a pivotal moment for startups in the real-money gaming sector. Co-produced by WagerWire and BettingStartups.com, this event is designed to honor the creativity and hard work of entrepreneurs who are pushing the boundaries of the industry. With categories like Launch of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Startup of the Year, The Starties diverges from traditional award formats to focus squarely on the founders and their contributions to the sector.
Jesse Learmonth, co-founder of BettingStartups.com, highlighted the community-centric ethos of The Starties, aiming to unite the builders and disruptors shaping the future of real-money gaming. This initiative promises to offer more meaningful recognition than the usual 'Rising Star' accolades, providing a platform for startups to gain visibility and acclaim.
The event has attracted significant sponsorship from industry leaders such as Eberg Capital, with founder Roger Ehrenberg envisioning The Starties as a cornerstone for fostering connections among founders, investors, and operators. Other sponsors like Defy the Odds and Optimove Ignite+ will present special awards, further enriching the event's focus on innovation and diversity.
Set against the backdrop of Manhattan's financial district at Convene, The Starties will not only celebrate the achievements of early-stage companies but also offer networking opportunities and cocktails, hosted by a yet-to-be-revealed celebrity. Nominations are open until February 9, 2025, inviting startups to showcase their groundbreaking work and vie for recognition in this landmark event.
The Starties represents a groundbreaking approach to acknowledging the vital role of startups in the evolution of the real-money gaming industry, offering a unique platform for recognition and community building.
