SBC Summit Lisbon 2024: A Global Convergence of Innovation in Gaming and Entertainment

The SBC Summit Lisbon 2024 solidified its position as a key event in gaming and entertainment, attracting over 25,000 attendees from 134 countries, a 70% increase from the previous year. Highlights included keynotes from Sir Tim Berners-Lee on data sovereignty and blockchain’s impact on iGaming, and Tony Hawk on authentic brand building. The expo showcased innovations in AI, big data, and blockchain that are transforming gaming experiences. BAE Ventures actively participated, engaging with startups and exploring hybrid entertainment models. The "First Pitch" contest spotlighted AI-driven fan engagement, reinforcing the role of innovation in shaping the future of gaming.

Sir Tim Berners-Lee and Tony Hawk
Two of the most highly anticipated speakers were Sir Tim Berners-Lee, the inventor of the World Wide Web, and Tony Hawk, the legendary skateboarder. Berners-Lee focused on the pressing issue of data sovereignty and the future of decentralized systems, emphasizing the importance of personal data control in a world where digital footprints are ubiquitous. His work with Inrupt and the Solid project underscored how blockchain and decentralized frameworks could reshape online interactions—especially for iGaming platforms where security and transparency are paramount.

Tony Hawk, on the other hand, shared his journey of building an authentic brand and community around skateboarding. His message on the importance of staying true to one’s values resonated deeply with the audience, particularly within the entertainment industry, where authenticity and community-driven engagement are key to long-term success. Hawk's insights into brand building offered invaluable lessons for both startups and established brands, reinforcing the importance of passion and purpose in creating lasting connections with audiences.

The Expo Floor
The expo floor of SBC Summit Lisbon 2024 was a bustling hub of innovation. Traditional casinos and iGaming platforms showcased cutting-edge solutions and hybrid models, blending physical and digital experiences in novel ways. As technology continues to revolutionize the gaming industry, AI, big data, and blockchain have emerged as transformative forces, enabling more personalized and immersive gaming experiences.

iGaming platforms are leveraging these technologies to tailor their offerings, providing curated game selections and personalized rewards based on user preferences. Blockchain, known for its secure and transparent nature, is being increasingly adopted by casinos to build trust and ensure fairness in gaming transactions. These innovations are signaling the future of gaming, where user-centered design and tech-driven solutions will become the industry standard.

BAE Ventures at SBC Summit Lisbon 2024
For BAE Ventures, the SBC Summit Lisbon 2024 was a pivotal opportunity to engage with the rapidly evolving gaming and entertainment sectors. As a key player in the entertainment vertical, BAE Ventures is dedicated to supporting startups that drive disruption through innovative technology. The summit’s focus on personalization, AI integration, and blockchain technology aligns with BAE Ventures’ strategy of investing in companies that prioritize user-centric, tech-driven solutions.

BAE Ventures’ presence at the event reinforced its commitment to fostering partnerships between startups and established industry leaders. The connections made at the summit are now shaping the company's next steps in investment and business development, particularly in hybrid models that integrate traditional entertainment with cutting-edge digital experiences.

"First Pitch" Startup Contest
A major highlight of the summit was the "First Pitch" startup contest, held within the Startupsphere exhibition space. This competition offered a platform for emerging innovators to showcase their groundbreaking ideas to industry leaders and investors. After intense competition, Match Hype, a startup focused on fan engagement through AI-driven insights, took home the coveted title. Their success underscored the critical role of innovation in shaping the future of gaming, highlighting how the summit fosters collaboration between startups and established industry players.

For BAE Ventures, the startup contest provided insights into new investment opportunities, particularly in entertainment startups aligned with the company’s focus on tech-driven, user-centric solutions. Innovations that emphasize personalization and immersive experiences are set to play a pivotal role in BAE Ventures’ future investment strategies.

The Future of Gaming and Entertainment
The SBC Summit Lisbon 2024 was not only a record-breaking event but also a visionary glimpse into the future of gaming and entertainment. As the industry evolves, fueled by technological advancements and new business models, the summit provided an insightful look into the trends set to shape the next decade. Innovations in AI, blockchain, and immersive experiences promise a future where gaming is more personalized, secure, and connected than ever before.

For BAE Ventures, these innovations mark a clear path forward. We are committed to supporting startups that develop cutting-edge solutions in gaming, iGaming, and entertainment, ensuring they have the resources, mentorship, and networks needed to succeed. With the knowledge and connections gained at the SBC Summit Lisbon 2024, BAE Ventures is more committed than ever to driving the future of entertainment.