SiGMA Europe's Malta Week first day sees conferences, tournaments, startup pitch competitions

After two years of facing the consequences of coronavirus and other unexpected hurdles, the industry has come together at the SiGMA Europe event, which has had its first day at the Malta Fairs & Convention Centre.

“This year we brought not one but 4 events for what is undoubtedly our biggest event yet - Malta Week”, the event organizers said in an official statement. 

Key verticals focussed on gaming, affiliate marketing and emerging tech came together under the MFCC arena, with a plethora of events from conference to the Esports tournaments drawing crowds. 

The expo floor, which was designed to maximize exhibitors’ exposure to the delegates, was also a main source of attraction, with companies innovating in terms of stand designs, featuring from a Ferrari to Soft2Bet’s cocktail bar. 

Events took off on Monday 15 with a football tournament, where Enteractive lifted the trophy for the SiGMA Cup. Other events also included a competitive-friendly Padel and poker tournaments. 

Malta Week registration was busy, with an increased demand for tickets. Guests were able to engage with live dealers before entering the expo floor. A full conference agenda headlined by key speakers brought together insights, ideas and opinions in one place to shape Europe’s gaming, tech, affiliation and digital health. 

Some of the highlights of day one include the first Pitch competition, where ten business startups take the stage in pursuit of a prize pool that includes mentorship, media exposure and investment opportunities. Hyper Sku won the prize. 

“We are ten out of a hundred companies chosen to pitch their dream, their momentum on stage, and it feels amazing to be selected as the best one. From this opportunity I saw investors are individuals who have really made it in the industry so they know what they are talking about. I really want to thank SiGMA for the opportunity. It’s great to be in Malta and having the guts to actually host an offline event during these times so congrats to SiGMA,” said winner Simon de Raadt.

The Esports tournament is being held throughout the 3-day event at the dedicated Esports Arena within the SiGMA Esports Village. Eight teams including Astralis Talent from Denmark, SAW Youngsters from Portugal, and Eversion from Malta will participate.

The event will run through November 19, with a full agenda including iGatherings, conferences, startup pitches and more.

SiGMA Europe 2021 Malta