The Global Esports Federation has launched its Innovation & Research Centre (IRC) in Athens, Greece, in collaboration with Socialinnov, a non-profit organisation dedicated to digital empowerment and social entrepreneurship.

The GEF Innovation & Research Centres are envisioned as collaborative spaces where technology, creativity and innovation converge to unlock human potential in the digital era. They will anchor forward-looking programmes that connect esports with education, wellness and opportunities in adjacent industries.

The Athens IRC anchors this global network, strengthening local ecosystems, enabling cooperation across regions and expanding opportunities in esports, gaming, technology and entertainment.

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Thanos Karagrounas, GEF Chief Impact Officer, said: “The launch of our Innovation & Research Center in Athens is a milestone in the GEF’s journey to shape an inclusive and impactful future for esports. By combining Socialinnov’s deep expertise in digital empowerment with the GEF’s international network, we will unlock new opportunities for innovation, education, and investment – with people at the center of everything we do.”

“We are proud to partner with the Global Esports Federation to bring the GEF Innovation & Research Center to Athens. This collaboration reflects our mission to empower individuals and communities with the skills and tools needed to thrive in the digital age. Together, we will cultivate new pathways for youth, educators, and entrepreneurs to engage with technology, esports, and innovation on a global scale,” said Stella Psarrou, Director, Socialinnov.

Leveraging Greece’s growing digital ecosystem and Socialinnov’s expertise in education, youth empowerment and SME support, the Athens IRC will serve as a platform to develop strategies, programmes and investment opportunities focused on responsible gaming, holistic wellness and sustainable career pathways in esports and beyond.

The European Esports Federation (EEF) has strengthened its ties with the Paralympic leaders. On September 2, EEF Secretary General Łukasz Klimczyk and Board Member Karol Cagan, held a meeting with Mr. Andrew Parsons, President of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC), and Mr. Tomas Varga, Executive Committee member at the European Paralympic Committee (EPC). The meeting took place at the headquarters of the Slovak Olympic Committee, following official celebration of 30th anniversary of the Slovak Paralympic Committee.

Discussions focused on exploring opportunities for closer cooperation between EEF, IPC and EPC, particularly in the areas of competition, prevention and educational initiatives. EEF remains committed to strengthening partnerships that support the values of inclusion, fair play and the development of parasport across Europe.

Importantly, esports offers unique opportunities for athletes with disabilities by removing many of the physical barriers present in traditional sports. With accessible technologies and adaptive solutions, esports can provide a level playing field where performance depends primarily on skill, strategy and teamwork.

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Oddin.gg, the leading B2B provider of esports betting solutions, is proud to announce a new partnership with Veikkaus, Finland’s state-owned betting operator. The agreement will see Oddin.gg’s technology and data powering Veikkaus’s growing esports offering—starting with a strong focus on Counter-Strike 2 (CS2).

Veikkaus has set ambitious goals for its esports portfolio, aiming to double related revenue within the next year. To support this growth, the operator is strengthening its focus on quality content, reliable infrastructure, and innovative engagement formats—all areas where Oddin.gg’s solutions will play a central role.

Veikkaus’s focus on CS2 made Oddin.gg a natural fit. Alongside traditional markets, Oddin.gg also brings exclusive CS2 Duels via its 24/7 Fast Betting Content offering, adding fresh engagement opportunities for bettors. This blend of data depth and product innovation supports Veikkaus’s commitment to delivering a best-in-class esports betting experience for its Finnish base.

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Andreas Reimblad VP, Sports Betting at Veikkaus, commenting on the partnership said: “Esports have been an important part of Veikkaus’ portfolio for several years, but in recent years it has been challenging to deliver a truly competitive offering and experience. What we value most in Oddin.gg is their drive to continuously improve the product and customer experience, while already being in a leading position. Together, we can take esports betting at Veikkaus to the next level, and we are extremely excited to work together with Oddin.gg.”

Marek Suchar, Co-Founder and Managing Director at Oddin.gg added:  “What makes this partnership exciting is the mindset Veikkaus brings. They’re serious about growing their esports offering and are already thinking beyond the basics—looking at things like local tournament data, new formats, and long-term product development. It’s the kind of collaboration where we can create something genuinely impactful—not just deliver and walk away.”