Esports has become a multibillion-dollar industry, attracting gamers and mainstream media coverage. With its soaring popularity, the sponsorship landscape in esports is flourishing. Businesses and brands recognise the power of aligning themselves with this new form of entertainment.
This article tells more about what sets esports apart and its digital nature.
Types of sponsorship
Esports provides various sponsorship opportunities. While you can choose to back entire leagues, there are equally impactful options like sponsoring popular streamers, teams, or events. This kind of granularity allows businesses to target specific audiences effectively.
The world of esports also opens the door to in-game sponsorships. Having a banner at a sports event is good. But think about your brand showing up in the video games themselves. For example, think of a virtual soccer field in ‘FIFA’ adorned with your logo or your brand being a named location in a game like ‘Fortnite.’
|
Type of Sponsorship |
Description |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
League Sponsorship |
Sponsoring the entire league |
High visibility, large audience |
|
Player Sponsorship |
Supporting individual players |
Direct engagement, fan loyalty |
|
Equipment Sponsorship |
Providing gaming gear |
Product exposure, credibility |
|
In-game Sponsorship |
Branding within the game |
Unique engagement, tech-savvy audience |
Understanding the different types of sponsorships helps select the one that best aligns with your brand’s goals. There is a fit for every business, from league sponsorships to in-game ones targeting tech-savvy audiences.
Why should you sponsor an esports event?
Sponsoring an esports event can serve as a cornerstone in modern marketing strategies. The immediate benefit is brand exposure, but it is much more than just getting your name out there. Esports audiences are often young, tech-savvy, and enthusiastic about engaging with brands that sponsor their favourite entertainment.
Another key benefit is the global reach. Esports has fans worldwide, providing a universal platform for your brand. It also includes various demographics, extending beyond the young male audience that many people associate with gaming.
Pitfalls and precautions
Esports sponsorship is an exciting venture, but it has some challenges. One of the most critical aspects to consider is understanding the community’s unique culture. Esports fans are deeply engaged and can easily detect when a brand is not authentic in its approach.
Cost is another consideration that you must pay attention to. High-profile sponsorships can be expensive, especially for significant events or popular teams. It would help if you weighed these costs against your expected ROI.
How to get started?
If you decide esports sponsorship is your route, the first step involves careful research. Look for teams, events, or leagues that share synergies with your brand ethos. Then, take the time to engage with the community through social media or forums to understand what they value in a sponsorship.
When ready to move, approach the event organisers or teams with a clear proposal. Remember to set key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the success of the sponsorship.
Conclusion
Esports offers a goldmine of sponsorship opportunities. With the industry only expected to grow, now is the ideal time to jump in. Are you ready to boost your brand and connect with a younger, tech-savvy audience? Do not wait — explore esports sponsorship today!
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