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Veteran Gaming Executives Aim to “Defy the Odds” with Startup Launchpad to Fuel Innovation Across the Gaming Industry

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Kelly Kehn, Sue Schneider, and Paris Smith, three gaming industry veterans, are proud to announce the launch of Defy the Odds, a startup launchpad designed to propel a new wave of innovation in gaming. With decades of combined experience, the trio is committed to fostering the next generation of gaming entrepreneurs, empowering them with the resources, connections, and skills they need to transform the industry.

Defy the Odds is centered on the belief that fresh perspectives and bold ideas will define the future of gaming. The launchpad seeks to identify and support emerging talent, with a focus on underrepresented founding teams, who can bring unique perspectives and creativity to the table. By connecting these innovators with industry-leading mentors, investors, and partners, Defy the Odds aims to help them turn their groundbreaking concepts into market-leading products.

With their deep industry knowledge and extensive networks, Kehn, Schneider, and Smith are uniquely positioned to guide startups through the complexities of the gaming market. Their approach is rooted in building a strong, collaborative community where founders can access the best resources available, from seed funding to strategic partnerships.

“The gaming industry is at a pivotal moment, where innovation is more critical than ever,” said Kelly Kehn. “We see incredible potential in founders who bring new energy and ideas to the space, but need the social capital and support on navigating the nuances of the sector. ”

“Our goal with Defy the Odds is to uncover the next big ideas in gaming and help them thrive,” said Sue Schneider. “We believe that by supporting a diverse range of founders through our network, we will bridge innovation with opportunity and push the boundaries of what’s possible in this industry.”

“In an industry that’s constantly evolving, understanding the trajectory of where gaming is headed is crucial,” added Paris Smith. “ Defy the Odds is focused on identifying founders who not only have innovative ideas but also a deep understanding of how to create products that resonate with the market’s future needs. We’re committed to helping these entrepreneurs shape the next generation of gaming experiences.”

Defy the Odds is about creating a platform where founders can connect with industry experts and peers, sharing knowledge and experiences that will drive their ventures forward all while building their social capital. The launchpad is open to startups at any stage, offering tailored support that meets the specific needs of each founder. The company is now actively seeking to connect with founders ready to take their ideas to the next level. Whether they’re just starting out or looking to scale, Defy the Odds offers a pathway to success in the dynamic and rapidly evolving gaming industry.

The post Veteran Gaming Executives Aim to “Defy the Odds” with Startup Launchpad to Fuel Innovation Across the Gaming Industry appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

Backseat Gaming

Hub88 integrates Backseat Gaming and Clutch Gaming in double supplier deal

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Aggregator adds high-volatility slots including Hades Harvest, Deep Sea Mafia and Radiate to its operator network.

Hub88 has added Backseat Gaming and sister studio Clutch Gaming to its supplier network via a double integration deal, expanding the content available to operators on its aggregation platform.

The integration makes a number of titles available through Hub88, including Hades Harvest, Deep Sea Mafia and Radiate. Hub88 positioned the move as a way to broaden its catalogue with high-volatility content.

Ollie Castleman, Managing Director at Hub88, said: “Backseat Gaming and Clutch Gaming bring a level of craft and personality that stands out.

“By choosing both complementary studios run by the same team, our partners gain the flexibility to reach different player preferences. With both brands already making a splash in the industry, we’re sure this content will become an unmissable addition to lobbies.”

Debbie Cooper, Head of Commercial Operations at Backseat Gaming, said: “Partnering with Hub88 marks an exciting next step for Backseat Gaming and Clutch Gaming as we look to expand our reach across the iGaming industry.

“Hub88’s proven aggregation platform and extensive operator portfolio give us the ideal network to get our content in front of new audiences quickly and efficiently. We’re excited to work alongside their team and bring our game content to their partners.”

The studios said they plan to release one game per week from each provider, with both brands managed by the same team and positioned to target different player tastes.

The post Hub88 integrates Backseat Gaming and Clutch Gaming in double supplier deal appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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Africa

Mancala Gaming signs QTech distribution deal for emerging markets

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Mancala Gaming has struck a distribution deal with QTech to roll out its slots and crash games to operators across emerging markets, the companies said on 21 July 2026.

Under the agreement, QTech will add Mancala Gaming’s catalogue to its aggregator platform. Mancala said its current portfolio includes more than 80 games, spanning slots and crash titles such as Panther Legacy, Coin Craze: Supercharged, Diego’s Spicy Truck, Cheese Chase, Beer Halla and Muscle Tussle.

Mancala Gaming CCO Emiliano Sanchez said: “We’re thrilled to have partnered with QTech to boost our reach and relevance across emerging markets, seamlessly offering our premium slots and crash content to a range of previously undiscovered operators. We now look forward to elevating our ambitions through the sprawling reach of QTech’s platform, particularly in Africa and LatAm where the crash-gaming genre is in such high demand. Mobile-first consumption and speed are the consequential keys to success in these two continents where players want instant entertainment, short sessions, and quick results, even when mobile connectivity is not optimal.

QTech CEO Philip Doftvik added: “Mancala Gaming’s content brings a level of gameplay and interactive engagement that keeps players coming back for more, improving retention and dwell-time metrics. Their growing gaming suite of slots, instant-win, and crash games is built for rapid deployment across any market. So, we’re confident that our operator partners will soon see strong performance courtesy of some multi-layered gameplay experiences which appeal to both seasoned and casual players.

The companies did not disclose commercial terms or name operator launch partners.

The post Mancala Gaming signs QTech distribution deal for emerging markets appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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Avanti

Avanti Studios names former Evolution executive Steven Tabone as Commercial Director

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Tabone joins from Evolution, where he served as Head of Region, as Avanti targets new operator and aggregator partnerships.

Avanti Studios has appointed Steven Tabone as Commercial Director, hiring the former Evolution Head of Region to lead its commercial strategy and partnership growth.

Tabone spent two years at Evolution, where he worked on commercial strategy, sales and account management, and supported operator relationships, according to the company. Avanti said his remit will include building operator and aggregator partnerships and developing a scalable go-to-market strategy focused on international expansion.

The supplier also pointed to recent activity in Spain and Brazil, citing partnerships with Entain and Bet365 as it scales operations in those markets.

Steven Tabone, Commercial Director at Avanti, said: “I firmly believe Avanti is the most exciting thing to have happened to the iGaming industry for a very long time, so I’m obviously delighted to be joining as Commercial Director during what is undoubtedly a pivotal period for the company.

“What drew me to Avanti is having the chance to build something genuinely different. The team has a clear vision that will disrupt the industry with its innovation and quality, and as an operator, you can either jump on the train with us or be left standing at the station. Being able to shape that journey from the very beginning is a huge opportunity, and one that I’m really looking forward to.”

The post Avanti Studios names former Evolution executive Steven Tabone as Commercial Director appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.

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