Latest News
Veteran Gaming Executives Aim to “Defy the Odds” with Startup Launchpad to Fuel Innovation Across the Gaming Industry
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.
Central America
FeedConstruct takes exclusive data and streaming rights for Nicaragua’s Liga Primera
Deal covers worldwide distribution of Liga Primera and Copa Primera content for sportsbooks and betting suppliers.
FeedConstruct has acquired exclusive worldwide streaming and data rights for Nicaragua’s top-tier football competitions, Liga Primera and Copa Primera.
The company said the agreement delivers start-to-finish coverage of every match across both competitions and expands its Central American football portfolio for sportsbook operators and providers using its data integration and streaming.
Ani Isakhanyan, Head of Rights and Content at FeedConstruct, stated, “Securing these exclusive rights is a highly valuable addition to our portfolio. Liga Primera and Copa Primera deliver the consistent football content that the global iGaming industry demands. This acquisition ensures our partners can offer comprehensive coverage of a rapidly emerging betting market.”
Allan J. Chamorro, Managing Partner at Apollo Sports Business Group, added, “Nicaragua has rapidly established itself as one of Central America’s fastest-growing football markets, attracting growing regional recognition and international commercial interest. Our partnership with FeedConstruct builds on that momentum by expanding the global distribution of Liga Primera and Copa Primera while powering sustainable commercial opportunities that strengthen clubs, elevate the competitions, and accelerate the long-term growth of the game.”
Liga Primera and Copa Primera are the main competitions in Nicaragua’s professional football calendar. FeedConstruct said the competitions are gaining regional recognition in Central America, supported by regular participation in CONCACAF tournaments.
The post FeedConstruct takes exclusive data and streaming rights for Nicaragua’s Liga Primera appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Cool Bus Shelter
The UAE Lottery backs Cool Bus Shelter initiative for outdoor workers
The UAE Lottery has partnered with SmartLife Foundation to support outdoor workers during the UAE summer, backing the Cool Bus Shelter initiative in Abu Dhabi on July 20, 2026.
The programme aligns with the UAE’s Midday Break rules, which require outdoor work to stop between 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM during peak heat. As part of the initiative, air-conditioned buses were stationed near labour sites to provide workers a place to rest before returning outdoors.
Volunteers from The UAE Lottery and SmartLife Foundation provided cold towels, cold water and drinks, according to the organisations. Workers also received portable rechargeable neck fans intended to provide additional cooling after the break.
Suzan Kazzi, Associate Director – Corporate Social Responsibility at Momentum- The UAE Lottery, said: “Outdoor workers are the backbone of our cities’ urban development, and initiatives like the Cool Bus Shelter ensure they receive the care and recognition they deserve during the most challenging months of the year. This is our small way of saying thank you and reminding them that their wellbeing truly matters”.
Abhijeet Oak, Vice President at SmartLife Foundation, added: “At SmartLife Foundation, we believe that protecting the wellbeing of outdoor workforce is a shared responsibility. Through the Cool Bus Shelter initiative, we are proud to collaborate with organizations such as The UAE Lottery and other community partners to create moments of comfort, appreciation and human connection that leave a lasting impact”.
The post The UAE Lottery backs Cool Bus Shelter initiative for outdoor workers appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
Bally’s Intralot
Intralot Ireland Limited Signs Seven Year Contract Extension with Premier Lotteries Ireland
Bally’s Intralot announced that its subsidiary Intralot Ireland Limited has signed a seven year contract extension, through November 2034, with Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI). The agreement supports PLI’s continued operation of the Irish National Lottery through the remainder of its license period and reinforces Bally’s Intralot’s role as a trusted technology and services partner.
Under the terms of the agreement, Bally’s Intralot will modernise PLI’s technology ecosystem by deploying its next-generation LotosX Omni solution and PlayerX Player Account Management platform. The solution will provide a modern, cloud-based technology foundation supporting lottery operations across retail and digital channels, while incorporating advanced retailer management, instant games management, device management and content management capabilities. The agreement also includes comprehensive support and maintenance services, along with cloud operations and cybersecurity services for the first year, designed to ensure the long-term reliability, security and performance of PLI’s technology environment.
Through this partnership, Bally’s Intralot will support PLI in delivering a future-ready operating environment designed to enhance operational efficiency, accelerate innovation and strengthen player engagement. The modernisation will provide a secure, scalable and resilient platform that enables PLI to continue evolving its offerings while improving time-to-market implementation of new initiatives, along with maintaining the highest standards of reliability and service to players and retailers across Ireland.
“We are pleased to extend our partnership with Bally’s Intralot, a relationship built on trust, commitment to excellence, and shared ambition since 2014. As we look to the future, this agreement provides a strong platform for continued innovation and growth, ensuring we can deliver a modern, secure, and world-class National Lottery that places responsible play at its heart while continuing to benefit communities across Ireland,” said Cian Murphy, CEO of PLI.
Robeson Reeves, CEO of the Bally’s Intralot Group, said: “We are proud to extend our long-standing partnership with Premier Lotteries Ireland for a further seven years. This agreement reflects the strength of our technology and the trust we have built with PLI over more than a decade of collaboration. We look forward to continuing to support the National Lottery of Ireland and to delivering innovative, responsible gaming experiences to players across the country.”
The post Intralot Ireland Limited Signs Seven Year Contract Extension with Premier Lotteries Ireland appeared first on EE Gaming | Global iGaming & Tech Intelligence Hub.
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