Pinoy esports agency Tier One Entertainment gets foreign funding

The Philippine’s first gaming and esports talent agency, Tier One Entertainment, has just secured foreign investment from BITKRAFT Esports Ventures. The announcement was made by cosplay queen Alodia Gosiengfiao and esports veteran Tryke Gutierrez, who jointly founded said agency in April 2017.

“We are fortunate that BITKRAFT has shown faith in the region,” stated Tryke Gutierrez. “We have always believed that Southeast Asia has what it takes to take off in the international arena. With BITKRAFT on our side, the investment will fast track our plans.”

Tier One Entertainment has described the investment as “significant,” as well as the “world’s first esports-specific” fund.

The agency aims to use the investment for the expansion of its team, the development of a talent studio, and the purchase of production equipment.

Further down the line, Tier One Entertainment has plans to cultivate gaming talents in the Southeast Asian region, with a specific focus on training streamers, shoutcasters, and professional teams. The agency also hopes to aid brands reach gaming audiences by introducing said brands to top epsorts influencers.

“There is a lot of potential in the esports and gaming world, particularly in the Philippines,” stated Alodia Gosiengfiao. “With BITKRAFT's investment, we now have the means to create more careers in the esports industry by investing in talented people and supporting their growth.”

BITKRAFT Esports Ventures is helmed by ESL founder and 20-year esports veteran Jens Hilgers. His team consists of sports and gaming world investors such as gaming industry veteran Minard Hamilton and Delivery Hero co-founder Markus Fuhrmann.

BITKRAFT Esports Ventures is based in Los Angeles and Berlin – the focal point of esports in the western world. It invests in and promotes the development of esports startups. In its first closing, it raised €18M.

“South East Asia is the fastest growing esports market and we feel that Tryke, Alodia and their team are outstanding entrepreneurs with great passion and undisputable esports experience,” stated Jens Hilgers. “We are proud to support the Tier One team.” — TJD, GMA News