EWCF to invest $20M to support 40 global esports teams
The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has opened applications for its 2026 Club Partner Programme. In advance of the upcoming Esports World Cup, the initiative seeks to support professional esports teams and strengthen the framework of the sector. The goal of this programme is to assist esports organisations in addressing issues such as regional development, audience engagement, and financial stability. It offers structured support and long-term planning to improve the overall health of the industry. The EWCF operates the Esports World Cup and works to develop competitive gaming globally.
Key highlights of 2026 Club Partner Programme
A funding pool of $20 million is part of the 2026 initiative, which focuses on operational and structural concerns and aims to support participating esports teams beyond prize money. 32 teams will be chosen through an open application process, and eight teams will receive direct invitations to participate in the 2026 Club Partner Programme. This structure is intended to combine established esports organisations with emerging teams. The programme will prioritise growth in India, China, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, regions identified as key markets for esports expansion.
The EWCF Club Partner Program 2026 applications are open!
— Esports World Cup (@EWC_EN) November 18, 2025
Find out below how to make your Club part of the initiative to drive sustainable growth in esports.
🔗https://t.co/trjhz4MCn7 pic.twitter.com/dw9u4miacy
Selection criteria for applicants
Applicants for the 2026 Club Partner Programme will be assessed on competitive performance across major esports titles, organisational stability, and fan engagement capabilities. Teams must demonstrate strong results, clear development plans, financial security, and sustainable leadership. Additionally, organisations with established content creation strategies and interactive platforms for audience engagement will be given preference.
Hans Jagnow, Director of Club and Player Relations at the Esports World Cup Foundation, said the organisation aims to expand its global presence and reach new audiences through the 2026 Club Partner Programme.
Jagnow stated, “Our focus for 2026 is to deepen our global reach, supporting Clubs as they grow their communities and bringing new audiences into the world of esports. This programme is not only about sustainability, but also about building the next generation of esports fandom.”
Direct invitations to teams
The Esports World Cup Foundation has extended direct invitations to eight organisations for the 2026 Club Partner Programme. The list includes Saudi Arabia’s Team Falcons, a two-time Esports World Cup champion, along with Team Liquid, Team Vitality, Twisted Minds, Virtus.pro, All Gamers, Gen.G, and Weibo Gaming.
Applications for the remaining 32 spots in the 2026 Club Partner Programme are now open through the official EWCF website. The selection process will consider competitive results, regional impact, community-building efforts, and organisational stability.
Selected clubs will be announced in January 2026 after a review of applications. The evaluation process considers performance data, community engagement, and growth plans. Teams can apply through the official Esports World Cup website. Updates will be shared on @EWC_EN via X and the EWCF LinkedIn page.
2025 Club Partner Programme
The 2025 Club Partner Programme reached an estimated 330 million fans worldwide, including 125 million in China. Participating teams launched creative projects such as G2’s space-themed campaign, REJECT’s anime film, and Karmine Corp’s art initiative. All Gamers reported that the programme helped increase their international visibility and competitive presence.
The programme has drawn some community debate related to the event’s host nation, but the EWCF is a not-for-profit organisation funded by the host nation and commercial partnerships. The host nation provides infrastructure and support, but neither it nor its commercial entities hold any ownership in the EWCF.
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