Esports in Vancouver and BC

The value of the global esports market is on track to double from US$1.1 billion in 2019 to US$2.2 billion within the next few years.

Thanks to the Vancouver region’s proven track record in hosting international sporting events, talented community and committed fanbase, and attractiveness as a tourism destination, Vancouver and BC have all the foundational qualities to capitalize on this market trend.

VEC worked alongside industry to assess key opportunities and challenges in Vancouver and BC’s esports ecosystem. The result of a year of stakeholder engagement, research and analysis, the Vancouver Esports Strategy and its 11 recommendations are for policymakers, esports company founders, community organizers and investors to act on.

This report includes an overview of the global and local esports industry, including a summary analysis of leading hubs acting on esports initiatives and strategies. The report was developed to:

• Help readers determine the potential esports economic opportunity in Vancouver and BC
• Establish understanding of the steps required to amplify and enhance esports across the region, and support coordination within stakeholders
• Facilitate BC industry leaders’ and policymakers’ decision-making process by providing insights into other cities’ success strategies
• Build on insights with a proposed set of strategy recommendations and tactics aimed at transforming Vancouver and BC into an international esports hub

Vancouver and BC is poised to unleash its full esports potential.

If you are interested in being a part of or contributing to the next stage of this work, or if you have any questions or comments about the content of this report, VEC invites you to reach out to our team by sending a query through info@vancouvereconomic.com.

Method and Acknowledgments 

The research and publication of this strategy was only possible through the generous contributions of time and insights by hundreds of esports industry leaders and business and community stakeholders.

VEC gratefully acknowledges the support and contributions of the project’s key partners: PacificCAN, TELUS, Vancouver Hotel Destination Association and Tourism Vancouver.