ESL, the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC), and esports publication The Esports Radar have joined forces to host the Global Esports Industry Week in Cologne, Germany.
Taking place from June 18th to 21st alongside the IEM Cologne Major, the event will bring together industry stakeholders to connect and discuss the state of the esports industry.
According to a release, Global Esports Industry Week will feature a range of workshops, forums, and gatherings, building on its inaugural event held in 2025. Among the attendees will be representatives from the Esports World Cup Foundation, MOONTON Games, HEROIC, and tournament organiser BLAST.
The business event will also feature the ESIC Global Esports Summit, a conference focusing on esports business and the sustainable growth of the industry. For 2026, the summit has been integrated into the wider programme.
“Integrity, governance, and long-term sustainability remain critical priorities for esports,” said Stephen Hanna, CEO of ESIC. “By once again embedding both the ESIC Global Esports Summit and IGET Expert Workshop within Global Esports Industry Week, we’re creating a stronger, more unified platform for meaningful dialogue and action.”
Highlights of the event include the Edu Summit, a panel discussing the growth of esports and its integration into educational curricula worldwide. Elsewhere, the Esports Leaders Honours List will recognise the people and projects that have defined the last 12 months within the industry.
Sustainability in Esports
The topic of sustainability in esports remains an important point of discussion as stakeholders look to ensure the industry’s long-term growth. With organisers continuing to offer large prize pools and incentives for its high-profile events, creating steady growth across the whole industry is key.
Launched in 2025 by The Insights Group, founded by former Esports Insider Managing Director and Founder Sam Cooke, the event continues to provide a platform for stakeholders to discuss the industry and open opportunities for collaboration.
Source: https://esportsinsider.com/2026/02/global-esports-industry-week-2026-cologne
