The iGaming start-up launchpad ‘Defy the Odds’ seeks to mentor and expand the next generation of industry entrepreneurs.
Defy the Odds is a venture launchpad supported by iGaming executives Kelly Kehn, Paris Smith, and Sue Schneider, with a mission to bring “fresh perspectives and bold ideas that will define the future of iGaming.”
The executives will form a collaborative community to foster early support, investment, and mentorship for iGaming-centric start-ups.
Notably, the launchpad is dedicated to discovering and nurturing emerging talent, particularly from underrepresented founding teams.
Paris Smith is the former CEO of Pinnacle Sports (2006-2023). During her 17-year CEO tenure, Pinnacle became the world’s leading low-margin sportsbook, recognised for its market beating odds and risk management practices.
Sue Schneider is the former founder of River City Group, the events organiser of the Global iGaming Summit & Expo (GiGSE), a business acquired by Clarion in 2006. Schneider has also served as a VP of Americas for SBC Global, helping to build its North American media and events portfolio.
Defy the Odds is rounded out by marketing and enterprise expert Kelly Kehn, former executive of Malta VC fund HappyHour.io, and founder of the diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) non-profit All In Diversity.
Kehn commented: “The gaming industry is at a pivotal moment, where innovation is more critical than ever. We see incredible potential in founders who bring new energy and ideas to the space but need the social capital and support to navigate the nuances of the sector.”
Defy the Odds offers tailored support to help startups at any stage, meeting their specific requirements and connecting them with industry experts and peers to share knowledge and experiences. The launchpad is actively seeking to connect with founders to help the next generation of gaming entrepreneurs reach the next level, turning “groundbreaking concepts into market-leading products.”
“Our goal with Defy the Odds is to uncover the next big ideas in gaming and help them thrive,” stated Schneider. “We believe that by supporting a diverse range of founders through our network, we will bridge innovation with opportunity and push the boundaries of what’s possible in this industry.”
Smith added: “In an industry that’s constantly evolving, understanding the trajectory of where gaming is headed is crucial. Defy the Odds is focused on identifying founders who not only have innovative ideas but also a deep understanding of how to create products that resonate with the market’s future needs. We’re committed to helping these entrepreneurs shape the next generation of gaming experiences.”
