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EKUSO ACCELERATOR

EMERGING LEADERS ESPORTS PITCH COMPETITION

Unlock the total power of gaming.

The EKUSO Accelerator is an esports pitch competition where college students and recent graduates identify challenges in scholastic esports and propose innovative solutions. Participants will develop their ideas, submit a recorded pitch, and compete for a PAID internship at EKUSO, where the winner will have the opportunity to bring their idea to life.

Apply Here

TIMELINE

Applications open on March 21st

Applications are due on May 1st

Winner is announced on May 21st

WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU?

"EKUSO staff, students, and parents gathered together, smiling and celebrating at an event."

EARN HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Work on a real esports industry challenge, refine your pitch, and gain practical experience that sets you apart in the gaming ecosystem.

WORK WITH INDUSTRY EXPERTS

Receive mentorship and feedback from esports professionals who have navigated the industry and can help bring your vision to life.

LAUNCH YOUR INNOVATIVE IDEA

The winning pitch will earn an internship with EKUSO, where you’ll have the chance to develop and execute your idea with our team.

GET PAID

The winner will be awarded with a paid internship!

RULES & REQUIREMENTS

Open to college students and recent graduates.

Must be esports-related and solution-focused.

Solo applicants only.

Submission must adhere to guidelines.

Terms of Service

WHAT DO I NEED TO SUBMIT?

Applicants must join the Discord.

Join here

How has esports impacted your life?

Tell us your story! Are you a player? A coach? 

What does "Unlocking the total value of gaming" mean to you?

Gaming is more than just competition—it’s innovation, community, and opportunity. We want to hear your perspective! What does "Unlocking the Total Value of Gaming" mean to you?

What's your pitch?
Your video should be 3-5 minutes long and address:
  1. Identify a problem within scholastic esports.
  2. Explain your idea/solution to this problem
  3. The specific value it brings to EKUSO
  4. How would you execute this idea?
  5. Potential challenges and risk mitigation

EXAMPLE IDEAS

A group of middle school students in uniform gathered around laptops, smiling and excited while engaging in a computer activity.
Inclusivity & Accessibility in Esports: Design a program that increases participation for underrepresented communities or players with disabilities.
Young students wearing headsets playing a multiplayer video game on laptops in a classroom decorated with college pennants.
Game-Based Learning & Education: Explore how esports titles can be used to teach teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving in the classroom.
image_2
Esports Pipeline Development: Create a structured pathway for high school players to transition into collegiate or professional esports.

FAQ

Is it paid?

Yes, the winning project will be awarded a paid internship!

What is the EKUSO Accelerator?

The EKUSO Accelerator is an esports pitch competition designed for students to identify challenges in scholastic esports, develop innovative solutions, and compete for a unique internship opportunity at EKUSO.

Who can apply?
  • 18+ years old, U.S. resident
  • Current or recent college student
  • Passion for esports or gaming
  • Member of the EKUSO Esports Discord
What do I need to do?
  1. Find a problem within scholastic esports.
  2. Develop a solution to address it.
  3. Record and submit your pitch explaining your idea.
What is the prize?
The winner will receive an internship at EKUSO, where they will have the opportunity to bring their idea to life with mentorship and industry guidance.
How is the winner selected?

Submissions will be reviewed by industry professionals, and the best pitch will be chosen based on creativity, feasibility, and impact on the esports ecosystem.

Is the internship remote?

Yes! The internship is remote and asynchronous, requiring 5-10 hours per week minimum of commitment, and potential for more based on scope of project.

How do I apply?

Simply fill out the application form on this page and submit your recorded pitch before the deadline.

When is the deadline to apply?

Check the timeline section on this page for the latest application deadlines and competition schedule.

Do I need to join the EKUSO Discord?

Yes! All communications, updates, and mentorship opportunities will be handled through Discord, so joining is required.

Have any other questions?

Contact us at info@ekuso.gg or on the EKUSO Accelerator Discord JOIN HERE!

Join the accelerator discord here!