The 15th anniversary edition of the Balkan Entertainment and Gaming Expo (BEGE) and the Eastern European Gaming Summit (EEGS) brought together global leaders and industry experts from three continents. Convening in Sofia under the motto Proximity to Opportunities, the events highlighted the importance of dialogue between businesses and regulators, the growth of the sector, and the industry’s role as a driving force for innovation.

BEGE 2024 welcomed over 6,700 visitors and more than 85 exhibitors from 60 countries, solidifying its position as the largest platform for the gaming industry in Central and Eastern Europe. Land-based operators comprised 54% of the exhibitors, while the online sector demonstrated robust participation at 37%. The remaining participants included payment solution providers and innovators from other key industry segments. Visitors—ranging from regulatory representatives and marketing professionals to entrepreneurs—shared ideas, forged new partnerships, and explored cutting-edge technological innovations shaping the sector.

EEGS 2024 reinforced its status as a vital platform for exchanging ideas and analyzing major trends and challenges in the gaming industry. Conference topics covered the transformative impact of technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual reality on customer experiences, the role of sustainable practices in shaping the sector’s future, changes in regulatory frameworks, and the development of gaming tourism. Experts emphasized the importance of effective regulations and global collaboration as key drivers of industry growth and innovation.

During BEGE 2024, the prestigious BEGE Awards recognized innovation and outstanding achievements in 25 key categories, including Innovation of the Year, Responsible Gaming Program of the Year, and Marketing Campaign of the Year. These accolades celebrate companies that set trends and propel the industry forward.

Another highlight was the Gaming StartUp Challenge 6.0, which provided a platform for young entrepreneurs and innovators from various fields to showcase their ideas to leading experts and potential investors. The winner, FightScout, impressed the jury with its groundbreaking platform that combines gaming elements with real-world applications, offering an interactive experience for the world of combat sports.

Bulgaria’s gaming industry continues to demonstrate sustainable growth, supported by effective dialogue between business and government and the integration of innovative technologies. BEGE and EEGS 2024 once again underscored the country’s pivotal role in the global gaming industry, offering a platform for exchanging ideas, showcasing cutting-edge solutions, and fostering growth both within the region and beyond.