Event Schedule
09:00
Registration
10:30 - 10:35
Short introduction
Mihai Chirica — Mayor of Iași
Tudor Dăescu — President of Esports Summit
10:00 - 11:30
The Future of Sports and Esports: Building a Unified Competitive Ecosystem
As global attention turns toward the upcoming Olympic Esports Games in Riyadh in 2027, the relationship between traditional sports and digital competition is entering a new era. This opening panel explores how Romania and the broader international community can harness this momentum to create a stronger, more integrated sports ecosystem. Industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators will discuss how collaboration between sports institutions, esports organizations, and major game publishers can redefine competition, talent development, and fan engagement. The conversation will highlight the importance of supportive policies, infrastructure, and cross-industry partnerships in building a sustainable future for both physical and digital sports, where athletes, creators, and audiences thrive together.
Speakers
Other speakers will be announced soon.
11:30 - 11:50
Break
11:50 - 13:20
How local esports competitions help the industry grow
As gaming and competitive esports continue to evolve, diverse tournaments and community-driven initiatives are becoming key forces in expanding the visibility and influence of competitive games. This panel explores how collaborations between organizers, brands, and passionate gaming communities can help build stronger ecosystems, attract new players, and transform casual gamers into dedicated fans. Experts will discuss how local and regional competitions can inspire grassroots participation, nurture professional talent, and open new opportunities for sponsorships and partnerships.
13:20 - 13:40
Break
13:40 - 14:55
Mind Games: Strategy, Creativity, and Culture in the Modern World
A thought-provoking discussion connecting seemingly different worlds: the strategic precision of chess, the creativity of video game design, the management of cultural institutions, and the innovation behind business education. The panelists share how they each harness play, creativity, and structured thinking to build engagement, inspire learning, and influence culture.
Speakers
Other speakers will be announced soon.
14:55 - 15:15
Break
15:15 - 16:30
Brands in Gaming & Esports
Esports relies on brands to thrive, but what motivates brands to invest in this space? Competitions cannot sustain themselves without commercial partners, and teams need sponsors to secure training facilities, cover tournament costs, and support player development. However, simply placing a logo on a jersey doesn’t automatically benefit a brand. So why do companies choose to invest in esports and gaming, and what value do they actually gain from it?
Speakers
Other speakers will be announced soon.
16:30 - 16:50
Break
16:50 - 18:20
Training for Victory: How Traditional Athletes and Esports Professionals Prepare to Compete
What does it take to perform at the highest level, whether on the field or in the digital arena? This panel explores the similarities and differences in preparation, strategy, and mindset between traditional sports and competitive gaming. Participants will discuss physical conditioning, teamwork, mental resilience, and performance analysis, while also examining how practice routines, focus, and strategy play a crucial role in achieving success. The conversation highlights how discipline and training translate across both physical and digital arenas, offering insights into the evolving world of competitive performance.
Speakers
Other speakers will be announced soon.
19:30
Cocktail
Partners
Strategic Partners
Media Partners
Organizer
Partners
Media Partners
Organizer
