Cincinnati, OH — July 9, 2024 — The University of Cincinnati (UC) Esports Innovation Lab is excited to unveil an exclusive multiyear partnership with Esports Ohio. This collaboration sets a new standard in supporting and elevating the state’s esports ecosystem.
The alliance offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for students, educators and esports enthusiasts across Ohio, making it a game-changer in the industry.
“The partnership with the University of Cincinnati and its Innovation Hub represents a pivotal moment for Esports Ohio and the future of esports in our state. Their exceptional facilities and commitment to innovation align perfectly with our goal of expanding access and opportunities for young gamers statewide,” says Jacob Ebers, president of Esports Ohio.
UC’s Esports Innovation Lab is a state-of-the-art facility within the 1819 Innovation Hub celebrating competition, community and academics. UC offers a comprehensive esports ecosystem with nine competitive programs, a degree program in game development through the School of Information Technology and a game animation program offered by the College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP). The university boasts 18 professional pathways for degrees spanning engineering, marketing, sports and more, providing students with a seamless transition from player to professional.
Patty Moser, director of UC’s Esports Innovation Lab, states, “We’ve been seeking a partnership like this for years and are truly impressed by the remarkable growth in school engagement and program development that Esports Ohio has achieved over time.”
UC has been holding Esports Ohio regional tournaments and will host future state championships on the university’s campus. The alliance marks a significant milestone in fostering a thriving esports community, providing invaluable resources to Ohio students, educators and gamers. UC encourages high school teams and esports enthusiasts to experience the Esports Innovation Lab for open play or to host their own tournaments.
Glimpse inside the UC Esports Innovation Lab.
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Esports Ohio
Esports Ohio is an educational nonprofit esports organization and league created by teachers for students. Our vision is to create a world where electronic sports are embraced as a positive educational and developmental change agent for all students. Esports Ohio has a singular mission to empower students by providing educational institutions with the knowledge, direction, support and resources to implement, maintain, educate and compete in electronic sports. Esports Ohio has over 250 Ohio high schools competing across multiple game titles. To learn more, go to esportsohio.org.
UC Esports 1819 Innovation Lab
The UC 1819 Innovation Hub, situated among distinguished research institutions within the Cincinnati Innovation District, is an entrepreneurial development engine propelling startups and positively impacting the region’s economy.
The Hub is a juncture for cutting-edge initiatives, seamlessly connecting UC with corporate and community startup partners such as Western & Southern and Proctor & Gamble. The Hub integrates diverse areas of expertise under one roof and accelerates startups from concept to commercialization, tailoring multiple programs, services and resources to stakeholders and community members.
Recently, a Stanford University report recognized UC as the country’s top producer of Unicorn graduates, surpassing even Ivy League institutions. A critical part of this process, UC’s 1819 Innovation Hub plays a pivotal role in nurturing entrepreneurial talent.
For more information, please visit innovation.uc.edu.
Interested parties can contact the Esports Lab coordinator directly at esports@uc.edu
