EWCF creates $20m fund for Esports Nations Cup development

The Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has established the Esports Nations Cup Development Fund, aiming to foster the expansion of national teams.

This development fund will allocate at least $20m (approximately £14.8m) annually, covering logistical support and promotional campaigns to raise awareness for national esports organizations.

Moreover, the fund will also finance travel for teams participating in the inaugural Esports Nations Cup, alongside providing assistance for the utilization of training camps.

Additionally, the EWCF has commenced accepting applications from nations interested in becoming National Team Partners. Chosen countries will be tasked with defining their teams’ identities through marketing and community engagement initiatives to cultivate a national fan base.

“The mission of the Esports World Cup Foundation is to elevate esports and ensure its long-term viability,” stated Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation. “By initiating this application process, we are inviting trustworthy National Team Partners to help establish the structure for how countries and regions are represented in esports with defined roles, harmonized governance, and a system that benefits players, game developers, and supporters alike.”

Submissions to become a National Partner Team will conclude on January 31st. Each application will be assessed based on its position within the esports ecosystem, its reach within the community, and its capability to manage a national team. The initial group of confirmed partners is scheduled to be unveiled in early 2026.

In conjunction with the application procedure, the ENC has revealed its 2026 strategic plan. Further specifics regarding the game titles and their respective formats will be disclosed later this month and throughout February, with qualification rounds scheduled to commence in June.

The announcement of the development fund, coupled with National Team Partners applications, represents the latest initiatives for the 2026 Esports Nations Cup. On January 6th, the EWCF also provided preliminary information regarding the event’s structure and qualification methodology, which is slated to occur this November.

With applications now open to interested nations, the fund presents numerous incentives for those aspiring to establish a long-lasting national esports team.