In Kenya's growing esports industry, Shirley "Tinto" Ndirangu exemplifies how strategic sponsorships can propel both athletes and brands to new heights. At 22, she has achieved remarkable success in FIFA and E-Football, including a second-place finish at the 2023 Afro-Arab Esports League. Tujiamini initiative plays the pivotal role of sponsorship in nurturing talent and enhancing brand visibility. Such eSports sponsorship partnerships not only advance individual careers but also contribute to the growth of the esports industry.
Strategic sponsorships have become pivotal for the success of both gamers and brands in the esports space. 22-year-old Ndirangu has quickly risen through the ranks, securing major sponsorship deals that have not only elevated her career but also highlighted the growing influence of esports in Africa. Her achievements highlight Tujiamini's transformative impact, which aims to empower grassroots talent through substantial sponsorships. By investing in promising gamers, such eSports sponsorship programs not only propel individual careers but also enhance brand visibility and engagement within the esports community.
Esports sponsorship is a business arrangement where brands partner with esports teams, players or organizations to promote their products or services. In return for financial or material support, sponsors receive visibility within the esports community through various forms of collaboration such as event sponsorships, player endorsements and providing gaming equipment. This partnership allows brands to enhance their reach and connect with the rapidly growing esports audience. The sponsorship terms may vary, ranging from fixed payments or product supply to performance-based incentives like prize money or bonuses.
ESports sponsorships involve brands paying professional gaming teams or events to showcase their logos and branding on various platforms like team uniforms, in-game advertisements, live broadcasts, and social media. In return, eSports sponsors gain access to a large and engaged audience, mostly made up of younger gamers. These collaborations serve as a promotional strategy where the teams or events act as vehicles for brand exposure, using different tactics to enhance visibility. Such partnerships help brands connect with tech-savvy audiences, fostering loyalty through genuine, long-term relationships. To be most effective, sponsors for eSports should align themselves with the eSports culture and track the success of their efforts through engagement and brand awareness metrics.
To apply for the Tujiamini Esports sponsorship, visit our official website at Tujiamini.co.ke and fill out the application form with personal details and a brief description of your esports journey. As one of the top eSports sponsors, Tujiamini requires you to upload a short video showcasing your skills and explaining how the sponsorship will help you. Applications are reviewed, with winners selected for a three-year sponsorship package. Securing a sponsorship can provide valuable support for your esports career.
As sponsors for eSports teams and individuals, our program aims to empower emerging talent by providing resources for growth, including funding for equipment, training and participation in tournaments. To maximize the chances of securing the sponsorship, applicants must submit a strong application and video that showcase their skills, achievements and potential to our website. Ensure you meet eligibility, submission deadlines and demonstrate how the sponsorship will elevate both the individual or team and the community at large. Additionally, engaging with local eSports events and networking can significantly boost an applicant's chances of success.
Shirley Ndirangu, known as "Tinto," is a rising e-sports athlete and FKF referee who recently placed second at the Afro-Arab Esports League in Saudi Arabia. She won the Tujiamini Silver Award for her talent, dedication, and efforts to break gender barriers in e-sports, which is largely male-dominated. Starting her journey at 14, Tinto aims to inspire more women to pursue e-sports and challenge industry norms. With the support of the Tujiamini Initiative and her own PlayStation, she is now ready to compete at a higher level.
Esports has become a global industry worth over $1.6 billion, with Africa, including Kenya, actively participating despite challenges like inadequate infrastructure and limited funding. In Kenya, organizations such as the Esports Kenya Federation (ESKF), the Kenya Professional Esports Federation (KPEF) and initiatives like SportPesa's Tujiamini play a key role in organizing tournaments and nurturing young talent. Tujiamini, which supports rising athletes, has helped figures like Shirley Ndirangu gain recognition in professional esports, demonstrating the initiative's impact on developing grassroots talent. Future advancements in esports include VR integration, Olympic recognition and increased global investments, particularly in regions like the Middle East, driving further growth.
Sponsorship by Tujiamini offers financial support for esports players, covering essential costs like training and travel. It also boosts an individual's visibility, leading to more exposure and potential future sponsorships. Through access to better resources and networking, it helps accelerate career growth in esports. Additionally, the partnership can open doors for long-term opportunities both within and outside the esports industry.
This year, Tujiamini plans to enhance esports sponsorships in by offering substantial support to emerging talent. This includes up to KSh 30,000,000 in funding, with monthly prizes like Gold KSh 500,000, Silver KSh 100,000, and Bronze KSh 10,000, plus a three-year sponsorship for one team each month. As one of the biggest esports sponsorships in the region, we encourage applicants to submit videos showcasing their talent, aiming to foster inclusivity and regional engagement. The initiative is designed to empower the esports ecosystem while ensuring transparency and a positive impact on local communities.
Read Also: How to Get Sponsored for Sports by Tujiamini
Esports sponsorships occur when a company invests in an esports organization in return for the opportunity to promote its brand.
To secure an esports sponsor, you must build a strong online presence, showcase a dedicated audience, create an appealing sponsorship package, and reach out to companies that align with your target demographic and goals.
To apply for Tujiamini's esports funding, ensure you're eligible then submit an online application with personal details together with a short video. Keep an eye on our website for the next application period, as applications for 2024 are closed, and contact us for more information.
ESports sponsors make money by using their partnerships to increase brand visibility, engage with a targeted audience and drive consumer behavior through advertising, product placement, content creation and sales.
Shirley "Tinto" Ndirangu's rise in the esports world demonstrates how eSports sponsorships can propel both athletes and brands to higher stages. Through initiatives like Tujiamini, which offers vital funding and resources, emerging talent gains the support they need to thrive. These sponsorships not only enhance individual careers but also boost brand visibility within the rapidly expanding esports ecosystem. As the industry grows, eSports sponsorships will continue to play a pivotal role in fostering grassroots talents empowering them up to international spaces.