iGB L!VE opens applications for Startups Accelerator and Pitch competition

Applications are now being invited to join the iGB Startups Accelerator (30 June) and Pitch iGB (1 July). Part of the iGB L!VE mid-year international business event, taking place at Excel London, the two programmes have been created in support of the enterprise economy and represent a continuation of the initiatives started at ICE Barcelona in January.

The iGB Startups Accelerator is aimed at an audience of founders, innovators, investors and operators. It is driven by iGB L!VE's commitment to support new businesses and foster the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the industry, organizers said.

The half-day programme, which is dedicated to early-stage founders entering or scaling within the gaming and betting industry, combines expert talks, founder insights, investor perspectives and interactive sessions designed to help startups accelerate product development, fundraising and market entry.

The programme also delivers networking opportunities, bringing together founders, venture capital firms, operators and industry leaders.

Pitch iGB is the startup pitching competition which sits at the heart of iGB L!VE. Five selected early-stage companies drawn from across the iGaming ecosystem will have the opportunity to present live to a panel of judges in front of an industry audience.

The program is designed to showcase innovation within the sector while connecting founders with investors, operators and potential partners. Each start-up delivers a 4-minute pitch followed by a 4-minute Q&A in front of the judging panel.

The winning pitch will receive industry exposure, with opportunities to showcase their brand through live event elements and dedicated PR coverage.

Reflecting on the two initiatives and their role in supporting entrepreneurs and innovators, World Gaming Managing Director Stuart Hunter stated: "The entrepreneurial spirit sits at the core of the industry, and we are delighted to be able to use the reach and influence of our events to provide a platform for enterprising and innovative startups."

"Fledgling businesses may be small in scale, but they possess a huge amount of skill, creativity and acumen. I am delighted that both the iGB Startups Accelerator and Pitch iGB will play a part in making the connections that all new businesses need." 

The deadline to submit entries to Pitch iGB is 15 May, with the five shortlisted startups announced on 12 June. The deadline for applications to be part of the iGB Startups Accelerator is 30 June.

iGB L!VE 2025, the first edition to be held in London, set a new visitation record of 20,227, a figure that was 16% up on the previous high of 17,498, which was set in 2024. iGB L!VE '25 also underlined its international credentials with attendees travelling to the show from 149 nations, up from the 2024 figure of 131.

Registration for the 2026 edition of iGB L!VE (1st- 2nd July, Excel London) has opened at https://www.igblive.com